Strongest primer and paint

[DanGB]

Hi all,

I am creating a old fashioned semaphore signal arm for a railway. Its made of Red western Cedar wood.
The plan is to prime and paint it all over.

I am after recommendations for the strongest type of primer and paint to use, as it will be outside for many years and has to withstand the British weather!

I have heard aluminum primer might be a good choice to start with?

In terms of paint, probably more after types of paint rather than brands, as may have to get specific RAL colors.

Thanks!

 

[Burnerman]

I think aluminium primer is really geared towards metal treatment but Ive found red oxide primer from Screwfix pretty good, just give it plenty of time to dry and don’t apply too thickly.
It doesn’t like cellulose though!
John

 

[JohnD]

Aluminium wood primer (which dries grey) is for wood, especially hardwood or oily wood, and is very durable. So very suitable for outdoor timber.

There is an Aluminium paint (dries silvery) used for metal protection, quite different.

 

[Burnerman]

Fair do's - I was thinking of Isopon 132 I think it is, but not sure why they shouldn't work as a primer.....for sure, it doesn't stop rust anyway.
Aluminium wood primer it is! Should be good for an oily cedar.
John

 

[DanGB]

Thanks, think i'm settled on that for a primer.

How about tough top coats. Its solvent much stronger than water based? Two pack? 2k? Enamel? Or just any regular stuff?

 

[Deleted member 174758]

A little trick with oily woods, like cedar, iroko or teak, is to wipe the surfaces off with a clean rag dampened with isopropyl alcohol and let it dry for a few minutes just before applying the primer. Just as when gluing this removes any oil on the surface and reduces any tendency for the primer to lift in the future. Just thought I'd mention it

For anyone unsure small bottles of isopropyl alcohol can be had from Wilko, of all places, or your local chemist. Use in a well ventilated space away from naked flames - it is highly inflamable

 

[DanGB]

Thanks, always useful stuff for cleaning!

 

[Burnerman]

For a top coat, I don't think you can beat either a brushing cellulose or coach enamel......good enough for heavy plant etc.
(So long as it is compatible with the primer )
John