Learn how to paint plastic furniture and PVC trim without worrying about a durable finish—from how to prime and paint plastic surfaces to top tips.
Learning how to paint plastics poses many challenges. It’s one of the most difficult surfaces to paint. Plastic’s chemical composition and smooth surface don’t promote good paint adhesion, and the fact that they can expand and contract at a greater rate than many other painted surfaces leaves them vulnerable to flaking, even when you think you have the coating securely adhered. However, with proper preparation and specialty products, you can learn how to paint plastics and not have to worry about the durability of the finish. aluminum h profile
For extra protection against peeling and cracking, ask your paint dealer about primers and paints made specifically for plastic surfaces. These products are versatile and can transform drab outdoor objects into attractive ornaments.
For interior walls (tiled with plastic tile, for example, or finished with other plastic products), apply a high-adhesion latex stain-blocking primer. For bathroom and kitchen walls that aren’t subject to constant exposure to water, use top-of-the-line interior latex paint. Shower walls and similar surfaces aren’t suitable candidates for paint.
Remove any mildew by scrubbing the area with a 3:1 water and bleach solution. Keep the area wet for about 20 minutes, then rinse. Next, clean the object thoroughly with detergent and warm water. Rinse and let dry. To help the paint stick better, scuff-sand the surface with 200-grit sandpaper. Wipe off the sanding dust with a damp cloth and let dry.
If painting interior plastics, apply a high-adhesion latex stain-blocking primer. For outdoor plastics, spray-prime with specialized primers formulated specifically for adhesion to plastics.
Not all furniture paint works for all materials, so be sure the formulas you pick up are appropriate for plastic. Evenly apply interior plastics with top-quality acrylic spray paint and outdoor plastics with spray paint designed for plastics. Spray multiple light coats, letting them dry completely before applying each succeeding coat.
Wash, rinse, and let dry. Scuff-sand (220-grit) and wipe clean.
Prime with acrylic latex primer recommended for exterior PVC surfaces.
Use 100-percent acrylic latex paint, applying it with a high-quality sash or trim brush.
Since dark colors absorb more heat, don’t paint PVC trim darker than its original color to avoid potential warping from heat expansion.
For perfect spray paint results, follow these essential tips:
• Test the spray on a piece of paper taped to a wall.
• Hold the can as perpendicular to the surface as possible.
• Tack coat the first pass for about 50 percent coverage. This gives the subsequent coats something to adhere to.
• “Orange peel” is a texture resulting from paint drying too quickly before self-leveling. Smooth mild orange peel with fine rubbing compound. Wet-sand severe orange peel, smooth with rubbing compound, and recoat.
Avoid orange peel by not applying the paint too thick or on a surface that is too warm.
• Apply the paint in numerous light coats, not one heavy coat.
• Shake the can periodically during the paint job.
• Prevent runs and sags by not spraying too much paint in one spot or spraying on a cold surface. Remove dried runs with 400-grit or 600-grit sandpaper and paint again
The best way is to paint as much of the object as you can see from one side, then reverse your position and paint as much of the surface as you can see from the other side.
tile trim cover • When spraying furniture, paint the bottom. Then, turn the chair upright and paint in the order shown above. Applying paint in this order ensures you get full coverage and eliminates drips. Apply the paint in light coats and repeat the process, completing one side and then the other. Let this coat dry completely before applying the next one.