What paint, please, for copper pipes? General decorating topics, questions and answers. find help, tips and advice on completing your decorating projects

[steameraeg]

Hi,
I intend to paint the walls on the under stairs cupboard.
The gas meter and copper gas supply pipes are visible and I'd like to paint the pipes white.
Is there a paint that IS suitable for copper (or is there a type of paint that should NOT be used on copper pipes?)
I'd be very grateful for any advice or help.
Cheers
CJ

[stoneyboy]

Hi steameraeg
Yes to oil based paint eg undercoat, no to water based paint eg emulsion.
Regards S

[steameraeg]

Thanks for the info about oil based undercoats, S.
Just as a matter of interest, can you tell me why is this?
I ask because other websites have people who seem to have had good experience of using water based paints.
Cheers and thanks again,
CJ

[stoneyboy]

Hi steameraeg
The issue with water based paints is that they do not adhere well to non porous surfaces especially if there is condensation likely to form on the pipes.
Regards S

[steameraeg]

Aha, now I get it!
Thanks again,S, for the help and info, off now to find an oil based undercoat, must have some - somewhere in the garage!
Cheers
CJ

[Marcin2]

I have used water-soluble Hammerite primer for non-ferrous metals, outside, covered with the standard Hammerite xylene based product. After two years I cannot find a fault.

My suggestion to OP, would be to use the same primer eg: https://www.duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk/ ... &v=5084909

than cover it with gloss or satin pain, and only then - if you really have to cover it with emulsion, but bear in mind if you use it on the how water/heating supply - emulsion will crack.

[kevinclark]

Choose A metal paint and primer based on enamel or oil. If you're painting a pipe, make sure both products are compatible. Paints and primers for metal surfaces are generally available in both spray-on and paint-on varieties.