Because containers are continually exposed to the weather, they may show indications of deterioration over time. A new coat of paint is the best and most efficient way to revive your container while also improving its appearance. A fresh coat of paint also gives an extra layer of protection between the steel of your container and the harsh weather. Finally, painting containers ensures endurance by protecting the metal's integrity and strength by keeping it rust-free.
However, painting containers isn't always as simple as it appears. This post will lead you through the fundamentals of container painting.
The best container paint is marine-grade direct-to-metal (DTM) aqueous paint. This industrial paint is a water-based acrylic coating that is corrosion-resistant on the inside and outside. DTM paints, as the name implies, are specifically designed to be metal-compatible, alleviating many of the challenges that painters face when attempting to cover metal with ordinary coatings.
DTM paints are made up of many resins. The resin used in the paint determines the longevity, color retention, and gloss level of the finished product. When it comes to DTM paints, more expensive is not always better—make sure to buy a high-quality paint for your container that will withstand UV radiation, heat, and moisture.
HOW TO PREP THE SURFACE BEFORE PAINTING A CONTAINER
Prepare container surface:
1. Remove all line markings.
2. A razor blade should do the task, but if the markings are resistant, you can also use a heat gun.
3. Wipe the container clean with a material-appropriate cleanser. This becomes considerably easier if you have access to a pressure washer.
4. Avoid sandblasting your container since it will remove the original rust-resistant zinc coating and protective marine-grade paint.
5. Remove the rust after it has dried. A wire brush is a fantastic tool for eliminating rust from your container. Other rust removal agents can be used if necessary.
6. Now it's time to paint the container.
While painting containers is a personal choice, most individuals choose a paint color that contrasts with the location in which they will be used. A good rule of thumb is to choose darker colors if the container is in direct sunlight and lighter colors if it is in a shaded place. Furthermore, marine containers are frequently painted red to make them more visible at sea.
There are numerous color options available. As a result, it is critical to be aware of:
Lighter colors – Light colors often require more coats of paint to provide adequate coverage, and they tend to reveal dirt or blemishes more easily.
Darker colors – While a dark color may make the interior of your container feel hotter, especially in the summer, it also hides defects better than brighter colors.
For these reasons, choosing a more neutral color that requires fewer touch-ups and cleaning is preferable.
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With the knowledge provided above, painting your containers gets a little easier.
Painting a container can be tricky, so it's advisable to obtain professional assistance. This is because a skilled professional understands how to effectively paint a container and which long-lasting products are most appropriate.
If you have any further questions concerning painting your containers or containers in general, please contact us right away. We are Oklahoma container professionals who are always eager to service our clients!