Q. What is the best way to paint baseboard heater covers?
A. First, thoroughly clean the surface and sand away any rust. For iron or steel, Rust-Oleum manufactures some premium metal spray paints and primers. Otherwise, you’ll get the best results using an oil-based primer and an oil-based top coat. Latex paints are permeable to humidity, which could allow moisture to penetrate down to the metal and allow rust to develop. Brushing will work, but spraying will achieve the most even coverage and eliminate bristle marks.