The Best Paint for Your Propane Tank

As a professional painter, I have to admit I haven’t painted many propane tanks. That’s because it’s easy to do so people decide to do this themselves, depending on the size of the tank of course.

With some basic information and guidance, you can do this as well. This article will give you the necessary info on the best paint for your propane tank and also a how-to guide with a checklist of tools and materials you’ll need.

Choosing the Right Paint for Your Propane Tank

Painting your propane tank is more than just an aesthetic decision. It plays an important role in maintaining the safety and longevity of your propane tank. 

A painted propane tank protects it from external factors such as weather and UV radiation from the sun.

The best paint for your propane tank is a paint that is chemical, UV-resistant and also elastomeric since it allows for the tank to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking the paint. 

This is particularly important as propane tanks are often exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations, from intense heat during the summer months to freezing conditions in the winter.

A polyurethane or acrylic paint has these properties. They come as water and solvent-based and also as 1K and 2K.

A 2 component paint will provide a stronger, more durable finish. The two components, typically a base and a hardener, are mixed together prior to application, creating a chemical reaction that results in a harder, more resilient coating. 

This type of paint is more resistant to scratches, chipping, and peeling. It also provides excellent adhesion to the tank’s surface, reducing the likelihood of rust and corrosion. 

Rust-inhibiting paint

Rust-inhibiting paint is a type of paint that is formulated to prevent or slow down the formation of rust on metal surfaces. It’s typically used as a primer before applying a topcoat of paint.

Rust-inhibiting paint works by creating a barrier between the metal surface and the environment, preventing moisture and oxygen from coming into contact with the metal and causing rust.

If your propane tank is rusty you’ll need to prime it with this type of paint otherwise it will soon start to rust again.

These primers are also available in both water-based and solvent-based forms and can be purchased as either one-component (1K) or two-component (2K) versions.

Top coat

After applying a rust-inhibiting primer you’ll need to paint your tank with a top coat since the primers usually aren’t UV-resistant. 

There are paints that according to the manufacturer or seller are UV-resistant and can act as both primer and top coat, but the best result is achieved by first applying a primer and then 2 coats of a 2K polyurethane paint.

2K paints are more expensive compared to 1K paints and it will be up to you to decide if the higher cost is worth the increased durability and resistance. 

The investment in 2K paint can save you from frequent repainting, thus in the long run, it may result in cost savings. 

Moreover, 2K paints have better color retention and are more resistant to chipping and abrasion, making them an excellent choice for outdoor items like tanks that are exposed to harsh weather conditions. 

While the primer provides the initial protection against rust, the 2K top coat will ensure the tank’s aesthetic appeal lasts for a longer period. 

Keep in mind that the application process of 2K paints is slightly more complex as it involves mixing two components before use and you need the proper PPE when using it. 

Color selection and its importance

Color selection is not only a matter of aesthetics but also has a significant impact on the safety and performance of your propane tank. 

According to NFPA 58, propane tanks must be painted in a heat-reflective color like white, light gray, or silver. 

These colors prevent excessive heat absorption, reducing the risk of propane expansion and potentially hazardous pressure build-up inside the tank.

Recommended paint brands for propane tanks

Here, we’ll list some popular paint brands to help you make an informed decision.

Rust-Oleum’s 9800 DTM Urethane Mastic

The 9800 System DTM Urethane Mastic is a two-component, high-solids, high-build, aliphatic acrylic polyurethane engineered for direct-to-metal (DTM) applications. It’s designed to offer superior protection to steel under moderate to severe environments, resisting rust and enhancing the lifespan of your equipment. 

This product can adhere directly to soundly rusted steel with minimal surface preparation, making it a versatile option for various surfaces such as clean steel, galvanized metal, and concrete. 

Its design is especially beneficial for propane tanks, given the material’s susceptibility to rust and corrosion. 

Pros:

• Minimal surface preparation required – making it time and cost-effective.
• Self-priming and high-build – gives durable color retention and corrosion resistance in one application.
• Versatile – suitable for use on different surfaces, including rusted steel, clean steel, galvanized metal, and concrete.
• Long-lasting and durable – offers a two-year rust-proof guarantee.

Cons:

• Two-component system – base and activator are ordered separately, which might be inconvenient for some users.
• Solvent-based 

Noxyde Elastomeric Acrylic Coating

The Noxyde Elastomeric Acrylic Coating is a heavy-duty, water-based, single-component protective coating designed for exceptional durability and flexibility. 

Ideal for use on new or minimally prepared steel, metals, and concrete, this high-build, self-priming coating requires minimal surface preparation, making it a highly efficient choice. 

One of its standout features is the impressive 200% elongation property, which allows it to bridge small cracks effectively, move with the structure, and protect edges. This results in a coating that performs comparably to zinc/epoxy coatings without the need for abrasive-blast cleaning. 

Furthermore, it boasts excellent rust, corrosion, and water resistance, even in severe marine environments, backed by a 10-year warranty. Noxyde also adheres well over pre-existing coating systems in good condition.

Pros:

• Single-component and self-priming – Great choice for DIYers
• 200% elongation – allowing it to bridge small cracks effectively and protect edges.
• Minimal surface preparation – making it time and cost-efficient.
• Excellent rust, corrosion, and water resistance – ensuring durability even in harsh conditions.
• 10-year warranty – providing long-term assurance of product performance.

Cons:

• Two coats are required – adding an extra step to the application process.

POR-15 2K Urethane

POR-15 2K Urethane Industrial Top Coat paint is a high-wear 2K paint. This paint is moisture-cured, meaning exposure to humidity and moisture enhances its performance and strength. 

When fully cured, this paint forms a rock-hard, non-porous, chemical-resistant, and remarkably tough coating that will not crack, chip, peel, or fade with age. 

It’s engineered to withstand the harshest UV environments and resist conditions that typically damage ordinary finishes. This product is also perfect for industrial applications, proving its worth on machinery guards or heavy equipment. 

Pros:

• Moisture-cured – enhanced performance and strength in humid conditions.
• Durable and hard-wearing – won’t crack, chip, peel, or fade with age.
• UV resistant – perfect for outdoor applications.
• Versatile – suitable for use over a variety of surfaces including primed, painted, and rust-treated.
• Highly resistant to chemicals – making it ideal for harsh environments.

Cons:

• Two-component system – both the Urethane Part A and Hardener Activator need to be mixed properly, which might be inconvenient for some users.
• Specific preparation and application instructions – necessitates careful reading and understanding of directions to ensure the best results.
• Limited pot life of 2 hours – the mixed product must be used within this time. All 2K paints have a pot life.
• Solvent-based – the product emits strong fumes and requires adequate safety precautions during application.

Pro Industrial DTM Acrylic

The Pro Industrial DTM Acrylic Coating is an interior-exterior, water-based, corrosion-resistant acrylic coating designed for light to moderate industrial use which makes it a good choice for DIYers.

This product offers features like resistance to chemicals and corrosion, ensuring a durable finish for your project. Plus, it dries quickly, which means you can save time and get back to your routine faster. 

Not to mention, it provides superior protection against flash rust and early rust development.

Pros:

• Water-based and corrosion-resistant – ideal for various environments.
• Quick drying – reducing the time taken for project completion.
• Flash rust-early rust resistance – offering an added layer of protection to substrates.
• Versatile – suitable for both new construction and maintenance.

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy industrial use – limited to light to moderate industrial use only.

Preparing Your Propane Tank for Painting

Here is a checklist of what you’ll need before you start.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather the following tools and materials:

• Wire brush
• Paint scraper
• Sandpaper
• Detergent or degreaser
• Gloves
• Metal primer
• Paint 
• Paint roller: With a 1/4″ nap roller cover
• Paintbrush
• Bucket of water
• Sponge
• Pressure Washer (optional)
• Paint Sprayer (optional)
• Respirator: If you decide to use a solvent-based paint or a 2K paint you’ll need a respirator with the proper filter
• Paint Tray: If your tools won’t fit in the bucket

Steps to Clean and Prepare the Tank Before Painting

1. Turn off the gas supply: Make sure the propane tank is closed and the gas supply is turned off. This is an essential safety precaution.
   
2. Remove dirt and debris: Using a wire brush and the scraper (or a putty knife) remove any loose dirt, rust, and flaking paint from the surface of the propane tank.
   
3. Wash the tank: Either clean your tank with a pressure washer or do it by hand. Use a detergent before you pressure wash it and let it sit for a few minutes. You can apply the detergent with a garden sprayer, a large paintbrush, or a sponge. Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely before you move on to the next step.
4. Sand or degloss: If the tank has a glossy finish then sand the whole tank with sandpaper or use a deglosser so the top coat adheres properly.
5. Prime: Apply 1 to 2 coats of primer on the rusty parts of your tank.

How to Paint Your Propane Tank

When all the preparation has been done it’s time to start painting the top coat.

When Rolling

Start by brushing the parts that are hard to reach with the roller and then roll the whole surface.

When the paint is dry enough (check the paint can for recoat time) apply a second coat of paint.

When Spraying

Rolling and brushing a tank is the easiest method to paint your tank but if you have a large tank or several that needs to be painted then spraying them is a fast and effective way of doing it, it also gives the best finish.

A handheld HVLP paint sprayer is good enough for small to medium tanks. The downside is that they can usually only hold a small amount of paint.

Use an airless paint sprayer with an FFLP tip when you have a lot of surfaces to cover. 

The downside of using a paint sprayer is that it is kind of messy and time-consuming to clean it afterward. 

If you haven’t used a paint sprayer before I recommend watching some Youtube videos or reading articles on the subject.

Maintaining Your Painted Propane Tank

Tips on Regular Maintenance for Longer Paint Life

To keep your propane tank’s paint looking its best, follow these simple steps:

1. Clean the tank regularly: Remove dust, dirt, and debris with a damp cloth or soft brush. This will prevent grime from building up and wearing down the paint.
2. Inspect for wear: Check your tank periodically, looking for signs of wear or damage to the paint and do some touch-ups. Pay particular attention to areas exposed to sunlight or harsh weather conditions.

By doing regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your propane tank’s paint and keep it looking fresh.

When to Consider a Repaint

It’s important to recognize when it’s time to repaint your propane tank. Some key indicators that a repaint may be necessary can be:

• Peeling or flaking paint: If large areas of paint are separating from the tank, it’s time for a new coat.
• Rust formation: Any visible rust on the tank’s surface is a sign that the paint has failed and needs replacement.
• Faded or discolored paint: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause paint to fade or lose its heat-reflective properties. If your tank’s paint appears dull or discolored, consider repainting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions when it comes to painting propane tanks.

Is it legal to paint your own propane tank?

Whether or not it’s legal to paint your own propane tank can depend on your local regulations and codes. However, in many places, it is generally allowed with some stipulations.

In the United States, for example, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) does not specifically forbid homeowners from painting their own tanks, but it does set standards for how propane tanks should be painted. 

This includes using a light, reflective color to help prevent excessive heat absorption and not using a color that could be misleading or cause the tank to be mistaken for something else (like green which might cause it to be mistaken for an oxygen tank).

Always check your local laws and regulations, or consult with a professional if you’re unsure.

Does the paint for a propane tank need to be reflective?

Yes, the paint for a propane tank should ideally be reflective. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards in the United States, propane tanks over a certain size should be painted a light, reflective color.

The reasoning behind this is to help prevent the tank from absorbing too much heat from the sun. Dark colors absorb more heat, which can cause the pressure inside the tank to increase. 

So, to help maintain safe operating temperatures and pressures, it is recommended to use light, reflective colors when painting propane tanks. 

Commonly used colors include white or silver, but other light shades could also be acceptable as long as they reflect heat well. 

Is it safe to use a heat gun or sandblaster to remove paint from a propane tank?

Using a heat gun or sandblaster to remove paint from a propane tank is not typically recommended due to safety reasons.

Propane is a highly flammable gas, and using a heat gun could potentially ignite any residual propane on or around the tank. Likewise, sandblasting can create sparks, which may also ignite any nearby propane. This makes both methods potentially hazardous when working with propane tanks.

The safest method to prepare a propane tank for painting usually involves using a wire brush to remove loose rust and paint, followed by a mild, non-caustic, non-flammable chemical paint stripper if necessary. 

Always remember to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and work in a well-ventilated area.

For any significant work on a propane tank, like a full repaint job, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or your propane provider. They can ensure the work is done safely and in compliance with any local laws and regulations.

Can I decorate my propane tank with designs, or should it be a solid color?

Whether you can decorate your propane tank with designs or if it should be a solid color may depend on local regulations and safety guidelines. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the United States, propane tanks should be painted a light, reflective color to prevent them from absorbing too much heat.

However, this does not specifically prohibit adding designs, as long as the paint used is still reflective and light-colored. Keep in mind that any design should not obscure the fact that the object is a propane tank or cause it to be mistaken for something else.

Remember to check with your local regulations or consult with your propane provider before deciding to paint a design on your propane tank. This can ensure that any changes you make are safe and compliant with local laws.

Is it necessary to empty the tank before painting?

No, it’s not necessary to empty a propane tank completely before painting it. However, it’s extremely important to follow safety procedures when handling propane tanks, whether they’re full or not.

Before you start painting, make sure the tank’s valve is closed tightly. You should also avoid painting over any labels, markings, or the valve on the tank. These are important for identifying the tank’s contents and instructions for safe use.

Remember, while painting a propane tank can improve its lifespan and help maintain its function, it should be done carefully and safely. 

If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s best to consult with a professional or your propane provider. Always follow local laws and regulations regarding propane tank maintenance.

Conclusion

Painting your propane tank not only improves its aesthetics but also provides protection against destructive elements such as rust, corrosion, heat, and UV rays.

With different paint types available, the ideal choice for your propane tank is mainly determined by its location, the weather conditions it’s exposed to, and of course, your budget.

While painting a propane tank can be a DIY project, knowing how to correctly prepare, paint, and maintain it is important for a long-lasting finish.