Using Appliance Paint

With appliance paint, you can spruce up tired looking pieces or create a completely new look for a fraction of the cost of replacing your appliances. Available at most home improvement stores, appliance paint is specially formulated to stick to the slick metal surfaces of most appliances.

Appliance Paint Tips
Using appliance paint is pretty straightforward, but here are some things to be aware of before you begin:

• Which paint? There are a number of types of appliance, each specific to a certain application-make sure you pick the right one. Standard appliance paint is appropriate for most appliances, but heat resistant paint will be required for stove, ovens or range hoods. There are also special paints for porcelain surfaces and the rubberized coatings of dishwasher racks.
• Clean up first. Your appliance will need to be cleaned before painting. Be sure to remove any accumulated grease, detergent or food particles as you clean. Make sure the appliance is completely dry before you begin painting.
• Got rust? Any rust on the appliance surface should be removed with sandpaper or treated with a product that will seal and prevent the spread of rust. Rust inhibitors are available wherever appliance paint is sold.
• Breath free. When you apply appliance paint, be sure to provide plenty of ventilation. Either open windows and doors and use a fan, or move the appliance outside.
• Application methods. Appliance paint is available in brush-on and spray applications. Brush-on appliance paint is appropriate for touch ups and small areas, while spray on paint is better for large surfaces or complete coverage.
• Keep paint in its place. Use plastic drop cloths to protect the area around the appliance-this is particularly important if you plan on using spray on paint. Remove or mask with tape any knobs, glass or trim you want to keep unpainted. Keep tape in place until the appliance paint is completely dry.