Should I paint galvanized vent caps?

Galvanized steel will last for 10+ years without rusting. Do remember the old metal galvanized steel garbage cans?

The only reason to paint them is if you want to have them match the pipe or other rooftop parts.

So many paints won't stick. Do what tinners do... wipe galvanized metal with vinegar to etch it. Craig

I would suggest painting with a good quality paint. Make sure to wipe down with vinegar to get good adhesion. The thin metal of your cap is most likely electro-galvanized and not hot dipped. Electro-galvanizing doesn't last!

I worked at a hardware store and if I remember there is a primer or paint made for Galvanized metal

JimR

Thanks all for your input. I believe the original plastic covers made it 30+ years, but I figure I might as well be sure and paint them if there's a chance they will eventually rust. There's a Sherman Williams paint store near my house. They should know what primer and paint I should use. I might even bring along the caps when I ask them. Better to play it safe than to have to replace them in the future...

One or two coats Rust-oleum or Hummerite paint. Big issue is to neutralize the galvanizing using cheap white vinegar. Use stainless screws for mounting.