The dome was painted on the outside with a hand roller using two layers of matt white Rustoleum paint. The galvanized plates were first washed with soap and water and then brushed with an etching solution and left for one hour, after which time the shiny metal had turned to a dull grey blackish lustre. Adhesion to the metal looked great,although admittedly after two years it did need a substantial make-over, especially but not only at the edges.
The main shutter and side overhangs were treated likewise.