Silver is a popular metallic color for paint. It can lend an elegant, modern, or industrial feel to a space. There are several types of silver paint to choose from depending on the exact look you want to achieve. In this article, we’ll discuss what paint colors look silver and how to choose the right silver paint for your project.
Different Types of Silver Paint
There are a few main categories of silver paint:
Metallic Silver Paint
Metallic silver paint contains real metallic particles, usually aluminum flake. When the paint dries, the metal flakes are suspended throughout the paint, reflecting light and creating a shimmering metallic sheen. Metallic silver paint delivers the truest silver color. It has a bright, shiny, chrome-like finish.
Silver Enamel Paint
Enamel paint in a silver shade also has a glossy look. It doesn’t contain actual metal particles, but has a higher sheen than standard silver paint. Enamel paint provides a smooth, glass-like surface and dries to a hard, durable finish.
Aluminum Paint
Aluminum paint is similar to metallic silver paint, but has larger flakes of aluminum mixed in. It has a coarse, sparkly texture. Aluminum paint is sometimes used on the exterior of buildings as a protective coating. It creates a very reflective surface.
Silver Spray Paint
Spray paint is available in metallic silver shades. Like enamel paint, the silver color comes from pigments rather than real metal particles. Spray paint allows quick, easy application on furniture, crafts, and decorative objects. The finish is less durable than enamel.
Choosing the Right Silver Paint
Several factors go into choosing what type of silver paint is best for your project:
Location
– Exterior surfaces — Use a high-quality, weather-resistant metallic or aluminum paint. Enamel paint also holds up well outside.
– Interior walls — Most standard interior paints have silver options without metal particles. Choose flat, eggshell, or satin rather than high-gloss.
– Furniture — Enamel works great for wood furniture, while spray paint is ideal for metal chairs, tables, etc.
Desired Finish
– High shine — Metallic or aluminum paint have the most reflective results.
– Subtle sheen — Regular interior paints offer a softer silver shade.
– Smooth surface — Enamel paint dries smooth and durable.
– Sparkly texture — Aluminum paint has visible metal flakes.
Budget
– Low cost — Standard interior silver paint or spray paint.
– Moderate — Enamel paint.
– Higher budget — Metallic and aluminum paints.
Project Size
– Small decor items — Silver spray paint.
– Furniture / medium areas — Enamel paint.
– Large exterior surfaces — Metallic or aluminum paint.
Preparing Surfaces for Silver Paint
Proper surface prep is key to achieving an even, consistent look with silver paint:
– Clean the surface thoroughly with soap and water first, then sand to rough up glossy areas.
– Apply primer to bare wood, metal, cinder blocks, or other porous surfaces before painting silver. This helps the paint adhere properly.
– Use spackle or caulk to fill any cracks, holes, or seams for a smooth look.
– Tape off any nearby surfaces you don’t want to get silver paint on. Lay drop cloths below the painting area.
– Follow the manufacturer’s directions for dry time between coats. Most enamels and paints with metal particles require extra drying time per coat.
Applying Different Types of Silver Paint
Each category of silver paint comes with its own specific application instructions:
Metallic Silver Paint
– Stir the paint thoroughly before and during use to distribute the metal flakes evenly.
– Use a high-quality roller made for textured paint. This prevents the metal from getting pulled out by the roller.
– Apply in thin, even coats. Metallic paint can look blotchy if you apply too much.
– Let the paint dry completely between coats. It usually takes at least 24 hours.
Enamel Silver Paint
– Stir the paint well and strain it through a paint strainer to remove any lumps.
– Use a soft bristle brush for cutting in edges and painting trim.
– Roll on the paint smoothly and avoid pressing too hard, which can create excess brush marks.
– Allow extra dry time between coats since enamel dries slowly.
Aluminum Paint
– Shake the can vigorously before spraying to distribute the aluminum particles. Use an up-and-down motion rather than side-to-side.
– Hold the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface and apply light, even coats.
– Use overlapping strokes to ensure complete coverage.
– Apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat for best results.
Achieving Different Silver Paint Finishes
Beyond just choosing a silver paint type, there are some techniques to create unique finishes:
Mirror Finish
– Use chrome or metallic silver spray paint.
– Spray in very light coats. Too much paint will start to look blotchy rather than smooth and reflective.
– Allow each coat to dry fully before spraying again.
– Finish with a clear gloss spray paint for extra shine and protection.
Brushed Metal
– Apply metallic or aluminum paint with a brush rather than a roller.
– Use visible brush strokes rather than trying to smooth them out.
– Let some darker undercoats peek through for added dimension.
Weathered Shabby Chic
– Paint furniture or decor items with silver enamel spray paint.
– Once dry, lightly sand areas to expose some of the wood underneath for a worn, distressed look.
– Seal with a matte clear coat spray paint.
Maintaining Silver Painted Surfaces
Silver paint needs a bit of care to maintain its beautiful finish over time:
– Use mild soap and water to clean. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
– Rinse off any cleaner residue thoroughly.
– Apply a fresh coat of clear sealer annually to exterior silver paint.
– Touch up any nicks or scratches quickly to prevent tarnishing.
– Remove tarnish with silver polish. Test in an inconspicuous spot first.
– For spray painted objects, use a sealer like polyurethane for added protection.
Conclusion
Silver paint can add an eye-catching element to any space or project. The key is choosing the right silver paint for your specific needs. Metallic and aluminum paint offer a true metal look, while enamel and spray paint provide a softer silver sheen. Prepare surfaces properly and apply the paint according to directions for the best results. With the right prep and product, silver paint delivers a beautiful, reflective finished effect.
