Galvanised Steel Paints

Paint for Galvanised Steel – Durable Coatings in 5,000+ Colours

Painting galvanised steel correctly requires more than a basic coating - it demands a system designed for the job. The zinc coating that protects galvanised steel also creates a smooth, non-porous surface that resists standard paints. This category offers solutions built specifically for galvanised substrates, providing superior adhesion, resistance to corrosion, and long-term durability.

Whether applying coatings on-site or in controlled environments, the paints available here suit a wide range of uses. Common applications include farm buildings, gates and railings, street furniture, ducting, handrails, cladding, and industrial steelwork. The selection includes fast-drying options for speed, two-pack systems for durability, and single-pack coatings for ease of use. Many are available as direct-to-metal systems, cutting down on time and labour.

Colours are not a limitation - customers can select from over 5,000 RAL, BS and NCS shades to match any requirement. Sheen levels range from matt to gloss, allowing flexibility for practical or visual preferences. Finishes are built to withstand outdoor exposure, UV degradation, abrasion and chemical contact.

Correct surface preparation is critical. New galvanised steel may need degreasing, light abrasion or a mordant wash depending on condition. For guidance on preparation and product compatibility, speak to the technical support team. Their advice ensures each surface is treated correctly before application.

Galvanised Steel Paint FAQs

What is the best way to prepare galvanised steel before painting?

Preparation is key. Galvanised steel must be cleaned, degreased, and assessed for passivation or white rust. Any oil, dirt or grease should be removed using a suitable degreaser. New or shiny galvanised surfaces often need to be lightly abraded or treated with a mordant solution (also known as T-wash) to help the primer bond. After preparation, allow the surface to dry fully before applying paint. Full guidance is provided in the How to Paint Galvanised Metal blog post.

Can I paint new galvanised steel without priming?

No - unless the product is a direct-to-galvanised coating. Most systems require a primer designed to bond with zinc-coated metal. Skipping this step can result in flaking, blistering, or full coating failure. If unsure, contact technical support for advice on the correct primer and topcoat combination.

Do I need to abrade galvanised steel before painting?

In many cases, yes. New galvanised steel may have a smooth, glossy surface that resists adhesion. Light abrasion with a fine sanding pad or non-metallic abrasive helps to create a key for the primer. However, excessive sanding can damage the zinc layer, so always follow the product’s technical datasheet or request support.

What kind of paint should I use on outdoor galvanised steel?

Outdoor environments demand coatings with high UV resistance and strong anti-corrosive properties. Specialist topcoats, often combined with zinc phosphate primers or other compatible base layers, provide long-term durability. For ease, look for systems approved for external metalwork and galvanised substrates.

Can I repaint previously painted galvanised steel?

Yes, but the surface must be assessed. Remove any flaking or poorly bonded paint. Abrade the surface to a sound, matt finish, then clean and degrease thoroughly. A tie coat or primer may be needed depending on the type of original coating. When in doubt, seek guidance from the technical team.

Are these paints available in RAL and BS colours?

Yes. Most galvanised steel paints listed are tintable to over 5,000 colours across RAL, BS and NCS ranges. Bespoke colour matching is also available for projects with specific requirements.