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Painting Galvanized Steel Posts

We are building a new farm fence with galvanized steel posts. Our contractor says we can't paint the posts white like the rest of the fence because the paint won't adhere and it won't look good. Is this correct? Is there a work-around alternative?

Kirk Brunson
Homeowner - Rowlett, Texas
2004

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Kirk,

He is possibly right. Look for a Zinc based primer to go on as the first layer. That will help the white you want , to adhere to the galvanizing. Let the primer dry. A second coat is optional. Follow with the paint.

The galvanizing must be new for good adhesion. or it needs light sanding to improve roughness and promote adhesion of the primer..

Regards,

Asif Nurie [deceased]
- New Delhi, India
With deep regret we sadly advise that Asif passed away on Jan 24, 2016
2004

I've worked in a galvanizing plant in Peoria IL and they always told us to wipe Lemon Juice on the part we wanted to paint. It opens the pores in the galvanizing so paint will stick.

Steve Haahn
- Farmington, Illinois
2004