How to Paint a Steel Fence

Steel fences are not suitable to be painted like wood fences. If you want to paint the steel fence and change its looks, you will have to prepare the fence. Applying an acidic primer before painting the fence can prepare it so the paint can adhere.

How to Paint a Steel Fence

Materials Needed

• Drop cloth


• Bucket


• Water


• Water based soap


• Sponge


• Garden hose


• Metal self etching primer


• Paint stirrer


• Acrylic latex paint

1. Remove all vegetation from around the fence and in between the fence. Use an edge to remove any grass at the bottom of the fence. You will need a clear view of the entire fence.


2. Fill a bucket with 2 gallons of water and ¼ cup of water based soap. Clean the fence with the cleaning solution and a sponge. Use a garden hose to rinse the away the soap. Allow the fence to dry for three hours.


3. Place drop cloths along the bottom of the fence to protect the sidewalk or vegetation. You want them from the paint and primer that may drip.


4. Remove the lid from a can of metal self-etching primer and mix it with a paint stirrer. Paint the fence with the primer using a paintbrush. Allow the primer to dry for four hours. Rinse the paint stirrer and paintbrush.


5. Open the can of acrylic latex paint and mix it with the paint stirrer. Apply the paint over the fence with a paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry for four hours.