What Kind of Paint to Use on an Outdoor Gas Pipe?

Metal Topcoat Paint

• Metal topcoat paint applies quickly to iron, steel, metal and galvanized pipes. The paint dries quickly and is enamel-based. Metal topcoat paint doesn’t change colors as it ages and provides a long-lasting hard finish. The paint comes in various colors, so you can match it to your home’s trim or exterior color.

Metal Primer Paint

• As with other painting projects, you need to apply a coat of metal primer paint on your home’s outdoor gas pipes before applying metal topcoat paint. Metal primer paint also dries quickly and works on a variety of metal pipes, including iron, metal, steel and galvanized. The primer adds an additional layer of protection against corrosion and weather elements.

Preparing and Applying

• Clean the pipes with a wire brush to remove any loose dirt and debris before applying primer and paint. Contact a plumber or plumbing service to replace the pipes if you see any cuts or pits on the pipes that are more than 0.05 inches deep. If the pipes are free of any deep cuts or pits, sand any rusty spots with a piece of 220-grit sandpaper. Rinse the pipes with water, and dry them thoroughly before applying primer. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's direction, and then apply a coat of metal topcoat paint after the primer is dry. Let the paint dry completely, and then apply a second coat.

Safety

• Wear latex or work gloves, a nose mask and safety goggles to keep the paint and primer off your hands and out of your nose and eyes. Cover any grass, flowers and other landscaping next to and underneath the outdoor gas pipes with plastic sheeting or drop cloths. Remove the sheeting or drop cloths once the paint is dry.