Primers and coatings for metalwork
Metal substrates are not interchangeable. Steel, galvanised sections and aluminium each defeat the wrong primer in a different way, usually within a season.
Bare and previously painted steel
Cleaned steel takes a zinc phosphate or high-build anticorrosive primer. Where existing coatings are sound, adhesion testing decides whether to overcoat or remove.
Galvanised and non-ferrous
New galvanising is slick and reactive; it needs a mordant or dedicated galvanised primer, not a general metal primer. Aluminium similarly requires an etch or specialist adhesion primer.
Direct-to-metal systems
Single-pack DTM coatings combine primer and finish and suit maintenance work where access time is limited. They trade some ultimate durability for speed.
Coastal exposure
Salt-laden air near the water increases corrosion risk, so we wash down chlorides before coating and favour a fuller build-up on exposed elevations.
Common questions
Can I use ordinary metal primer on galvanised steel?
No — it typically peels. Galvanised surfaces need a mordant or purpose-made primer.
Is direct-to-metal paint good enough?
For sheltered maintenance work, often yes. For exposed or coastal steel, a layered system lasts longer.
Do you wash down before coating near the sea?
Yes, removing chloride deposits is an important step in coastal work.
Can metalwork be sprayed?
Yes, usually with brushed stripe coats on edges and welds beforehand.
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Next step
Send details of the substrate and exposure for a coating recommendation.
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