How to spray paint a tap

Hero painted 1.png

Difficulty: Beginner

Spray painting tapware can be an easy and cost-efficient way of giving your bathroom a fresh new look.

Here is a simple guide to spray painting a tap. Please follow all safety guidelines provided by manufacturers and use the recommended protective gear, including a safety mask and goggles. Ensure you are painting in a well-ventilated area.

Video Tutorial

Steps

Step 1

Sand the tap.

Use the 240-grit sandpaper to sand your tap thoroughly. It’s a good idea to wear safety glasses before sanding. Take care not to scratch your sink or cabinet. Sanding removes any dirt or oils and ensures a clean and long-lasting finish.

Use a damp corner of a cloth to wipe away any dust or debris that may have resulted from the sanding.

Wipe the tap dry before proceeding.

Step 1.1 Gather all the materials.png Step 1.2 Sanding.png Step 1.3 Use a damp cloth to wipe clean.png Step 1.4 Use a dry cloth to wipe dry.png

Step 2

Apply masking tape.

Carefully apply masking tape around the tap to prevent paint from falling on the surrounding areas. Be precise and cover all the areas you don't want to paint.

You can use a plastic drop sheet to cover surfaces like the mirror, sink, and benchtop. These sheets provide good coverage and are easy to tape in place.

Step 2.1 Use a masking tape.png Step 2.2 Use drop sheet to cover areas.png

Step 3

Paint the tap.

For added protection against paint splashes, position a cardboard box directly behind the area you are painting.

Wear your safety mask. Shake the paint can thoroughly.

Start spraying lightly so the paint coats the tap in thin layers. Spray all around the tap. This technique prevents paint drips and ensures a uniform look. Remember to spray the rear of the tap and underneath the spout.

Apply a thin first coat. Wait for at least two hours before applying a second coat.

Ensure the paint is completely dry before proceeding to the next step. You may have to wait for approximately four hours.

Step 3.1. Spray paint the tap.png

Step 4

Remove the drop sheet and the masking tape.

Once the paint on your tap has dried, carefully remove the sheet and the masking tape.

Check thoroughly for any bits of tape you may have missed, especially around the base of the tap.

Step 4.1 Remove tape.png

Step 5

Clean the area.

Paint may have fallen on some areas around your tap, including those that were covered. Use mineral turpentine and a cloth to clean the excess paint.

Wipe the area dry.

You have now successfully painted your tap.

Step 5.1 Clean up with mineral turpentine.png Step 5.2 Newly painted tap.png

Materials

240-grit sandpaper
Plastic drop sheet
Your preferred spray paint, like Dulux 300g Metalshield Epoxy Enamel Gloss Spray Paint Structural Steel
Masking tape
Mineral turpentine
Cardboard box.

Tools

Cloth
Personal protective equipment, including safety mask and glasses.

Images

Step 1.1 Gather all the materials.png Step 1.2 Sanding.png Step 1.3 Use a damp cloth to wipe clean.png Step 1.4 Use a dry cloth to wipe dry.png Step 2.1 Use a masking tape.png Step 2.2 Use drop sheet to cover areas.png Step 3.1. Spray paint the tap.png Step 4.1 Remove tape.png Step 5.1 Clean up with mineral turpentine.png Step 5.2 Newly painted tap.png

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Bathroom

Comments

Akanksha

Such an easy and affordable way to refresh your bathroom.

Thanks for sharing this step-by-step guide, @lifestylebymari. I'm sure our members will appreciate these details.

Akanksha

Noyade

Morning Mari @lifestylebymari

👍

I'm truly impressed with this. The effect is amazing and I noticed you did the same with the power point cover in the background?

I'm also astounded you could even do this without removing the tap first - the plastic Hannibal Lecter covering applied to the bathroom would try my patience.

Have you done this before and have a story to tell us regards the durability of the paint on polished chrome? Or is it stainless steel?

I've had no success with this paint on raw metal in a hot barbecue environment, as it peeled off after a short time. The can instructions recommend an 'etch' primer - but I did not proceed with this.

Cheers!

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