How To Spray Paint Plastic Exterior Light Fixtures

Exterior light fixtures can be spray-painted to give them a new look. The process is simple and can be done without removing the fixture. However, if you do remove the fixture, it is important to turn off the power supply at the fuse box.

To paint the fixture without removing it, you must mask around it to protect adjacent surfaces from paint spray. If the fixture is attached to the siding or brick wall, cover the area with enough masking paper and use painter's tape to secure it. You will also need to mask the fixture shades if they cannot be removed before painting.

If you choose to remove the fixture, start by turning off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Verify that the power is off using a high-voltage neon circuit tester. Only then is it safe to remove the light fixture.

Once the fixture is removed or masked, clean the surfaces with a vinegar and water solution or an all-purpose cleaner and scrub brush to remove dirt and grime. If there is mould or mildew, clean it off with a bleach and water solution or a commercial mould remover.

Next, remove any paint or rust using a stiff wire brush or an electric drill equipped with a sanding pad or abrasive discs. Wear a tight-fitting dust mask, safety goggles, and appropriate clothing that covers your skin during this step. After removing the paint and rust, brush on a commercial rust remover, following the manufacturer's instructions. Wipe the surface down with a rag to remove any leftover dust or debris.

Now it's time to prime the fixture. Spray metal surfaces with a primer made specifically for metals, such as True Value X-O Rust rust-inhibiting primer. Apply two coats for best results.

Finally, apply the topcoat. Consider the desired finish (flat, semi-gloss, or high-gloss) and choose a colour that complements the fixture's surroundings. Spray on a coat of paint, holding the can about eight to 12 inches from the object. Apply several light coats, allowing the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before using the fixture.

Spray paint can give your exterior light fixtures a fresh new look, and it's a project that most DIYers can tackle themselves.

Removing the fixture

To remove the fixture, start by turning off the power to the lighting fixture by shutting off the breaker at the main electrical panel. Ensure the power is off by turning on the light switch to the fixture. Remove the globe to the light fixture by loosening the thumb nuts that hold the globe in place in a counterclockwise direction. Hold the globe with one hand while loosening the thumb nuts with the other hand. Lower the globe, and set it aside. Remove the light bulb by twisting it by hand in a counterclockwise direction, and set it aside. Remove the thumb nuts that hold the light fixture to the mounting plate. Hold the fixture in one hand as the wiring may not support the weight of the fixture. Disconnect the fixture's wiring by twisting off the plastic wire nuts in a counterclockwise direction. Untwist the bare wires with a pair of pliers. Remove the light fixture and set it aside. Remove the fixture's mounting plate by twisting out the holding screws with a Phillips screwdriver in a counterclockwise direction.

If you are removing the fixture to spray paint it, follow these steps:

• Clean the shades with an all-purpose cleaner and water, then dry them with a towel and set them aside.
• If you cannot or do not want to remove the shades, you will need to mask them before painting.
• Remember to cover the ground or floor of your workspace with drop cloths or tarps.
• Choose an open area in which to work to avoid overspray onto surfaces you don’t want painted.
• If you want to paint the fixture without removing it from its location, you must mask around the fixture to protect adjacent surfaces from paint spray.
• If your fixture is attached to the siding or brick wall of your house, cover the area with enough masking paper to protect the surface.
• Be sure the paper covers all brick or siding around the fixture and use painter’s tape to secure the masking paper to the wall.
• You will also need to mask the fixture shades as explained above if they cannot be removed before painting.

Preparing the area

• Choose a suitable work area: Select an open, well-ventilated area to work in, such as a garage or outdoor space. This will help prevent overspray onto unwanted surfaces. Cover the floor or ground with drop cloths or tarps to protect them from paint.
• Turn off the power: Before beginning any work on the light fixtures, ensure that the power supply to the lights is turned off at the fuse box or circuit breaker. This is a crucial safety precaution.
• Remove or cover surrounding objects: If possible, remove the light fixture from its mount. If you cannot or prefer not to remove it, carefully cover the surrounding surfaces with masking paper and painter's tape to protect them from paint spray.
• Clean the fixtures: Use a vinegar and water solution (50/50) or an all-purpose cleaner with water and a scrub brush or rag to remove dirt and grime from the fixtures. For mould or mildew, use a bleach and water solution or a commercial mould remover. Ensure the fixtures are dry before proceeding.
• Prepare the fixtures: If there is any existing paint or rust on the fixtures, remove it using a stiff wire brush, electric drill with a sanding pad, or emery cloths. Wear protective gear, including a tight-fitting dust mask and safety goggles, during this step. After removing rust or paint, apply a commercial rust remover, following the manufacturer's instructions. Wipe down the surface with a rag to remove any leftover residue.

Cleaning the fixture

To clean your light fixture before spray painting, you should first remove the glass shades from the fixture's frame. If you can't remove the shades, you'll need to mask them off before painting. Clean the shades with an all-purpose cleaner and water, then dry them with a towel and set them aside.

If you're taking the fixture down, start by turning off the power to the fixture at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Verify that the power is off using a high-voltage neon circuit tester. Only then is it safe to remove the light fixture.

Make sure the circuit is truly "dead" before touching any wires or terminals. Also, check that your tester is functioning by first trying it in a live receptacle.

Once you've removed the fixture, use a vinegar and water solution (50/50) or an all-purpose cleaner and a scrub brush or rag to remove dirt and grime from the fixture's surfaces. If there is mould or mildew, clean it off with a bleach and water solution or a commercial mould remover.

Removing paint or rust

To remove paint or rust from plastic exterior light fixtures, you can use a stiff wire brush or an electric drill equipped with a sanding pad or abrasive discs. Emery cloths (cloth-backed abrasive sheets) can be used when there is minimal rust. A scraper can also be useful.

It is important to wear protective gear when removing paint or rust, such as a tight-fitting dust mask, safety goggles, and appropriate clothing that covers your skin.

After removing flaking paint and/or rust, brush on a commercial rust remover, following the manufacturer's instructions. Once it has dried, wipe the surface with a rag to remove any leftover dust or debris.

Applying primer

Clean the Surface:

Start by thoroughly cleaning the plastic surface of the light fixture. Use a mild detergent or soapy water and a soft cloth to wipe down the fixture, removing any dirt, dust, or grease. Rinse with clean water and allow the fixture to dry completely.

Sand the Surface:

Lightly sand the surface of the plastic fixture using fine-grit sandpaper (180- to 220-grit). This step is important as it creates a rougher surface for the primer and paint to adhere to. Sand until the surface becomes dull and matte, but be careful not to over-sand, as it may damage the plastic.

Wipe with Mineral Spirits:

Once the fixture is sanded, wipe it down with mineral spirits or isopropyl alcohol. This step will remove any remaining dust or residue and ensure that the surface is clean and ready for priming. Use a clean cloth and wipe the fixture until no dust or residue is coming off on the cloth.

Choose the Right Primer:

Select a primer that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Options like Rust-Oleum Specialty Plastic Primer Spray or Krylon Fusion for Plastic are suitable choices. Make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations before use.

Apply the Primer:

Follow the instructions on the primer can for proper application. Shake the can well and hold it about 8 to 12 inches away from the fixture. Spray in light, even coats, moving the can in a steady back-and-forth motion. Apply a thin coat first, and then allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. You may need to apply a second coat for better coverage.

Dry and Cure:

Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step. The drying time may vary depending on the primer used and environmental conditions. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying and curing times.

By following these steps and allowing adequate drying time between coats, you will achieve a smooth and durable finish on your plastic exterior light fixtures. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary safety precautions when working with chemicals.

Frequently asked questions