Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

December, 2004

Is there a stainless steal paint for appliances?

Q. I would like know if there is there a stainless steal paint for appliances? I would like to paint a stove and hood over the stove. I have looked all over and cannot find and answer. If, there is no paint product are there any product that would emulate the look?

There are coatings that have a silver appearance, much like automotive finishes. They don't exactly look like stainless steel, but they are fairly close. You would need to purchase such coatings from and automotive paint store and in my opinion you should ask a professional painter to apply it for you. However, I can't tell you how resistant the paint is to foods and cooking ingredients, or how the coating will bear up when you constantly wipe it down with a detergent solution every time you clean your stove. Also, you would not want it to get too close to the heating elements of your stove because the paint will start to degrade over a period of time.

Finally, the surface preparation of the existing finish will be critical, and you will not want to spray apply a solvent-based metallic finish while people are at home. Again, you should speak to a professional automotive painter for this.

Health and Safety
Please be aware that coatings and solvents are chemicals and therefore you should always pay attention to proper handling procedures and be prepared to wear protective clothing, such as respirators, gloves, coveralls, etc., and always be sure that your work area is well ventilated.

For further information on the health and safety requirements for the coatings and solvents you wish to use we strongly advised you to contact your local coating supplier and obtain a copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). If possible, go the extra step and look for this information on the website of the product vendor.

Best Wishes,

Ron Joseph