Restoring a Rusted Roof

[Gregski]

Ok, once I have everything squeeky clean I will need to do something to keep Mr. Rust from coming back. I think I know the number one answer, which is spray it with Epoxy Primer of some [good] kind.

The pros of Plan A ie epoxy primer are that it will definitely keep the rust at bay, ie keep the moisture out. The cons are that I need an air compressor and a paint gun to apply it. Well maybe, as some companies now make it in a special spray can that you pull a rip cord on and activate the chemicals then apply it.

Plan B which I got from some old timer painters is to primer the bare metal with regular primer, then right away paint it with some paint, any automotive paint. Let the paint be the sealer ie preventer of moisture and rust. Then when it's time to get the vehicle painted [for real] you scuff up the paint and use it as filler and take it from there. If I go this route I plan on rattle canning it with flat black over the primer.

QUESTIONS

1. Has anyone ever used epoxy primer in a spray can, and would you recommend it?

2. What about my plan B?

3. Any other ideas?

be gentle, I'm learning here