Yes. RDW offers custom painting so your new carport, patio cover or awning looks like it belongs with your home or building. Here is how it works, what we need from you, and a few tips for getting a color you will love.
How painting works
- Bare primer first. On a standard lean-to structure, the posts and beams are installed in a red primer color and the roof panels are silver. The primer is there to protect the steel until it is painted.
- Paint within 2 weeks. The primer needs to be painted within 2 weeks of installation. It is not meant to be left exposed to sun and rain for long.
- Just about any color. We can do just about any color on the roof panels and posts.
- Your paint or ours. You can supply the paint, or we can supply it. Either way, we are happy to apply it.
Color matching is up to the customer
Matching an existing color is harder than it looks, so we want to be clear and fair about this up front: all color matching must be done by the customer. Paint can look different on smooth metal than it does on siding or stucco. It can also look different in full sun than in shade, and a new batch of paint can differ slightly from an older one. Because we have no way to control any of that, RDW is not responsible for color mismatches between the new structure and your home or building.
We are glad to help you think it through, and we want you to be happy with the result. These steps make a real difference:
- Bring a sample. A paint chip, a leftover can with the color name and code, or a paint store match made from your existing paint all work well.
- Test a small area. Paint a small patch and look at it in daylight, morning and afternoon, before we paint the whole structure.
- Check the finish. Gloss, satin and flat versions of the same color can look quite different. Ask the paint store for a finish that suits the existing paint on your home.
- Use the right paint. Ask the paint store for an exterior paint made for metal, and for one that is compatible with the primer on the steel.
- Decide before we start. Changing the color after painting begins can mean paint, labor and delays. See our page on change orders.
Common questions
Can you match my house color exactly?
We will apply the color you choose as carefully as we can, but because color matching is the customer’s responsibility, we cannot guarantee an exact match to existing paint.
Can I paint it myself?
Yes. If you prefer to paint it yourself, just remember the 2-week window for the primer. Tell us when you request your quote so we can plan around it.
What if I want to paint it later?
Please plan to paint within 2 weeks of installation. Leaving bare primer exposed longer can let the finish wear and weather before it is protected.
Does painting add to the price?
Painting is an option that may add to your price, since it takes materials and time. Ask for it in your quote so you know the cost up front. See the pricing guide.
Ready to talk colors? Request a free quote or text 210-913-3443. See more pricing questions and answers.