Painting Peeling Downspouts and Gutters

Gutters and downspouts normally peel because they were not properly treated and primed when originally painted. Galvanized metal usually has a thin, invisible film that causes many paint problems. Here's how to take care of this common problem and get your gutters looking like new again.

Tools and Materials:

• Paint
• Sponge
• Paint Cleaner
• Steel Wool
• Sandpaper
• Paint Scraper
• Wire Brush
• Paint Remover
• Paint Brush
• Power Sander /Brush
• Crack Filler
• Concrete Patch
• Patching Plaster
• Drop Cloth
• Wood Putty
• Trowel
• Caulking Gun
• Caulk
• Putty Knife
• Putty
• Roller Tray
• Paint Roller
• Paint Pail
• Brush/Roller Cleaner
• Glass Scraper
• Turpentine or Thinner
• Punch
• Exhaust Fans
• Louvers
• Solvent
• Vents or Wedges
• Undercoat

Step 1: Remove the loose paint from the downspouts and gutters with a wire brush, scraper or some other stiff tool. Use a power brush or power sander for big projects.

Step 2: Be sure that all loose paint is removed. Otherwise, the problem will occur again after another painting. Don't take shortcuts - correct the problem now by doing the job right.

Step 3: If you are using latex-based paint, clean the sanded area with a good grade of solvent. Apply a heavy coat of the solvent and allow it to evaporate. Special solvents are available for treating galvanized metal.

Step 4: After the solvent has evaporated, apply the latex paint directly to the bare galvanized area. For large areas, finish the job with two top coats.

Step 5: If you are using an oil-based paint, prime the sanded areas with a good grade of metal primer. After the primer has dried, apply one coat of a good grade of metal paint.

Step 6: Finish the job with at least one coat of a good-quality house paint. Use two coats in extreme cases.

Courtesy of the National Retail Hardware Association - www.nrha.org