Definitely agree that brushing beats spraying for durability. Sprays might save you a bit of time upfront, but I've seen too many peel or bubble after just a few seasons. Last summer, I redid some flashing around my chimney—spent extra time wire-brushing and degreasing beforehand, then brushed on two coats of quality aluminum coating. Still looks solid through heavy rains and snow this year. Prep work really is the key... shortcuts rarely pay off in the long run.
"Prep work really is the key... shortcuts rarely pay off in the long run."
Couldn't agree more about prep work—it's often overlooked but makes all the difference. I've had similar experiences with sprays peeling prematurely, but I'm curious if anyone's tried self-etching primers before brushing on aluminum coatings? I've read they can significantly improve adhesion on metal surfaces, but haven't tested it myself yet. Wondering if it's worth the extra step and cost...
I've actually used self-etching primer on some aluminum flashing around my chimney last summer. Honestly, I was skeptical at first—mostly because I'm cheap and hate extra steps—but it turned out to be worth it. Before that, I had peeling paint every couple of years, and it drove me nuts. Since using the primer, it's held up surprisingly well through winter storms and summer heatwaves.
That said, it's not exactly magic in a can. You still gotta do the annoying prep work (cleaning thoroughly, sanding lightly, etc.), but once that's done, the primer really does seem to help the coating stick better. If you're already spending money on decent aluminum paint or coatings anyway, the primer isn't a huge added expense.
But hey, if you're like me—always tempted by shortcuts and quick fixes—just remember: nothing's more expensive than doing the same job twice... or three times. Learned that one the hard way!
Good call on the self-etching primer. I was in the same boat a couple years back—tried skipping steps to save a few bucks and ended up regretting it big time. Aluminum flashing is tricky because paint just doesn't want to stick unless you give it something solid to grab onto. Like you said, prep is key: clean off any grime or oxidation first (I usually use a mild detergent and scrub pad), then lightly sand to roughen the surface. After that, the primer really does its job.
One thing I'd add from experience: don't rush drying times between coats. I got impatient once and painted too soon after priming... ended up with bubbles and peeling within months. Lesson learned, patience pays off. Anyway, sounds like your chimney flashing should hold up nicely now—definitely beats climbing back up there every other year.
Definitely agree on the drying times—been there myself. Aluminum flashing can be a real pain if you cut corners. I learned the hard way that prep work isn't optional, especially with metal surfaces exposed to weather. Sounds like you've got it dialed in now, though. Should hold up well and save you from another trip up the ladder anytime soon... always a win in my book.
