Here are the basic steps for the successful painting of metal.

Wash the surface thoroughly with either a power washer or soapy water and a scrub brush. If you paint dirt and not your skirting, the paint won't stick!

Let dry. Thoroughly.

Prime the skirting. This is a 'base paint' that will allow the paint you're ultimately going to use to stick.

Once the primer is dry, go ahead and paint your skirting. You should use an exterior grade paint and likely a semigloss or gloss finish for easy washability.

A few things to remember. If you want to get a smooth and uniform finish, you might consider spraying on your paint. You can rent a paint sprayer from a local home improvement center. Also, be sure to mask off surrounding areas including other parts of your home you don't want painted as well as bushes and plants.

Now good luck and have fun!