Use tile paint on RSJ

Question

Hi - I am about to buy tile paint. I only need a small amount  - I will buy Ronseal One Coat Tile Paint Satin Grey Slate. I need to buy a similar colour to paint an internal exposed RSJ steel beam - can I use this tile paint for that?  Do I need to do any prep work other than cleaning?

Amjad · Accepted Answer

You will need to use metal paint for the rsj steel beam. You can get these in many colours. If the beam is internal, it should be boxed in with 1hr fire plaster boards.

Rahim · Answer

Hi Zoe, 

Thank you for consulting me for advice. I would advise you to clean  both the tiles and the steal beam before painting. Make sure they are free from dirt and moist, Also you would need a different paint for metal steel beam. 

I would advice you to replace the beams if possible if not buy a small amount of metal paint .

Hope that helps

Rahim

Daniel · Answer

You may find that using a tile paint on steel work may start to peel over time, I recommend you wipe the steel down with white spirits then undercoat with a metal paint then I would highly recommend you by a tin of hammerite metal paint instead of tile paint it will last 10 times longer and give you a better finish

Bear in mind if it's a gray colour you are using you will need a light grey undercoat

Stefan · Answer

Hi! While Ronseal One Coat Tile Paint Satin Grey Slate is designed for tiles, it’s not the best option for painting an exposed RSJ steel beam because:

1. Adhesion Issues – Tile paint is formulated for glossy ceramic surfaces, not metal. It may not bond well to steel and could peel over time.

2. Durability – RSJs are structural and may be exposed to moisture or temperature changes, requiring a metal-specific paint with rust protection.

Best Alternative:

To match the Grey Slate color, look for a metal paint or all-surface paint in a similar shade. Some good options:

Hammerite Direct to Rust Satin Grey – Ideal for steel, requires minimal prep.

Dulux Metalshield Satin Grey – Tough and suitable for interior metal.

Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Satin Grey – Works on metal and has a similar finish.

Preparation for the RSJ:

Even with a metal-appropriate paint, some prep is necessary:

1. Clean the Surface – Remove dust, grease, and debris with a degreaser or sugar soap.

2. Light Sanding (If Needed) – If the steel is smooth, lightly sand to improve adhesion.

3. Apply a Primer (If Not Using a Direct-to-Metal Paint) – Use a metal primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or Hammerite Metal Primer if the steel isn’t already coated.

4. Apply Paint in Thin Coats – Use a brush or roller for even coverage.

Jay · Answer

Give the RSJ a good key with, say four hundred grit wet and dry, then treat any rust areas. Followed by a suitable metal primer allow to dry overnight. Then apply a test patch of your tile paint. It should be fine.

Nathan Philip · Answer

It's not recommended to use tile paint for painting an exposed RSJ steel beam. Tile paint is specifically designed for use on ceramic tiles, and may not adhere properly to a steel surface. Additionally, tile paint is not formulated to withstand high temperatures, which could be an issue with an exposed steel beam.

Instead, you can use a metal paint that is specifically designed for use on steel surfaces. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean and free of any dirt, dust, or rust. You may need to sand the surface to create a rough texture that will help the paint adhere better. If there is any rust present, it's important to remove it before painting.

Once the surface is clean and prepared, you can apply the metal paint using a brush or roller according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to allow the paint to dry completely between coats, and apply multiple coats as necessary to achieve the desired coverage

Paul · Answer

Use metal paint not tile paint it will just bleed through

Toma · Answer

cleaning?
ChatGPT said:
Hi! You're on the right track thinking about compatibility and prep. Here's the short version:

Can You Use Ronseal One Coat Tile Paint on a Steel Beam?
Technically, no – it's not designed for metal, especially steel like an RSJ. Tile paints are formulated for glazed, non-porous surfaces like ceramic tiles, not for bare or even primed metal. It may not adhere well or last long on a steel beam, particularly over time as steel expands/contracts and is prone to rust if not properly treated.

Here's What You Should Do:
If you want a similar grey slate satin finish on your steel beam, follow this plan:

1. Clean Thoroughly
Remove dust, oil, and grease with a degreaser (e.g., sugar soap or white spirit). Dry fully.

2. Key the Surface (Optional but Ideal)
Lightly sand with medium grit (e.g., 120) to help paint adhere, especially if it's smooth or previously painted.

3. Prime the Beam
This is essential. Use a metal primer or rust-inhibiting primer like:

Red oxide primer

Zinsser Bullseye 1-2-3 (for non-ferrous and ferrous metal)

Hammerite Special Metals Primer (if it's galvanized or previously painted

Terry · Answer

For the RSJ I would use a metal paint. Clean the surface of dust etc, prime then paint in the metal paint

Mark · Answer

Hi. 
I would use a company called Bedec and their product which is called MSP. 
 It’s a great product for painting on many different surfaces 
https://bedec.co.uk/product/multi-surface-paint/

Use tile paint on RSJ

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