Q&A for How to Paint Cast Iron

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  • Question
    What is the best way to paint pipes?
    Andre Kazimierski
    Painting Specialist
    Andre Kazimierski is a Painting Specialist and the Founder and CEO of Improovy, an on-demand house painting service startup. With more than 15 years of experience, Andre and the Improovy team use data and technology to streamline the home improvement process for homeowners and painting contractors. Andre started in the painting industry as a sophomore at Depaul University in Chicago, working with one of the nation’s largest painting companies to launch new cities and territories across the Midwest. Years later, he started 3rd Gen Painting and Remodeling and had a successful exit after growing the company to two different states.
    Painting Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Prime it with oil, because oil is non breathable and will keep the water out. Then, paint it with a nice glossy oil paint. The primer protects the metal and the paint protects the primer, so that's a great combination.
  • Question
    After priming and painting the cast iron object, does it need some kind of protectant over it? If so, what do you suggest?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    No, you do not have to seal the cast iron once it's been painted. Oil-based paint will protect the metal.
  • Question
    I have a brand new pink cast iron bench do I need to strip it or prime it to paint green
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    If the paint is glossy, you'll need to rough it up with sandpaper and prime it before painting it. If it's matte and doesn't have any chips, you can just prime it before painting.
  • Question
    I have a metal primer to use on my black cast iron fireplace. Can I use a water-based satin wood paint after the primer or is it better to use an oil-based paint?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Oil-based paint designed for use on metal is best for cast-iron items. Avoid using water-based paint made for wood on cast iron.
  • Question
    I have a rusty, outdoor cast iron ornament. Can I use these steps with it?
    Community Answer
    Why not? As long as your outdoor ornament is made with cast iron, then the steps in this article should work fine.
  • Question
    If I use spray paint on cast iron, can I use oil-based primer?
    Community Answer
    Yes! Just make sure that the primer dries fully before applying oil-based paint. Water and oil don't react well together.
  • Question
    What is the best brush to use for oil-based paint?
    Community Answer
    For oil-based paints, most professionals choose a natural China bristle (hog hair) paint brush. If you are painting a smooth surface with oil-based paint, a natural white bristle paint brush is your best choice, because it is soft and supple.
  • Question
    Which paint and primer do you recommend for porcelain coated cast iron BBQ grills?
    Community Answer
    You can't paint over porcelain, it's basically glass, it needs to be blasted off the surface. You can consult a sand blaster and see if they would do it for you, but it would probably be easier and cheaper to just get new cast grills.
  • Question
    I have a baker's rack frame that is bumpy and looks like cast iron. Can I clean and spray paint it to make it smooth?
    Community Answer
    You can clean and spray paint it, but that might not make it look more smooth.
  • Question
    I have an old cast iron cider press. Is there a paint that would be food-safe to use on the inside of the apple and fruit bin on the press?
    Community Answer
    Try Zero-VOC paint. It has little to no toxins so it would probably be safe for the cider press.
  • Question
    Do I need a primer or sealer when painting cast iron? What type of paint should I use?
    Community Answer
    You need a primer. Then let that dry and use and oil-based paint.
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