Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

-----

Repainting wrought iron planters

Q. I have wrought iron flower planters. I believe they were spray painted black but don't know if they have any type of clear or protective coat over them. I'd like to spray paint them a different color. What kind of protective coat should I put over them? They will be outside in the sun year round.

Sonia Pedretti
- Shelby Wi
August 9, 2023

A. Hi Sonia,
I'm assuming this is a new purchase? Whatever you end up doing paint-wise will not contribute as much to corrosion protection as the finish which is already on them. So lightly abrading it with fine sandpaper for paint adhesion is okay but don't bring it down to bare.
Since you don't know whether the existing paint is oil based, or whether it has an oil-based clearcoat, the only safe approach is probably latex paint (oil paint over latex is usually a problem). Although some latex (water-based) paint is available in spray cans, most spray cans are solvent-based (oil-based). Personally, I think I might rethink the need for spraying, and get some quality latex/ water-based paint and brush it on.
Luck & Regards,

pic of Ted Mooney
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: