Step 1: Prepare the Exterior
Worn metal garden furniture often exhibits chipped paint and rusting in various areas. Any loose paint or obvious rust spots can be removed by using spray-on rust remover and a scoring pad. This initial scrub is designed to remove obvious chipping and rust deposits. Wear a mask and gloves, as the fumes from rust remover can be quite potent. Avoid getting the chemical on padding and armrests. Ideally, these parts should be removed beforehand.
Step 2: Strip the Exterior
Using a power tool with wire brush attachment, remove most of the old paint, taking care to focus on rusted areas. Additional rust remover can be applied at this point to aid in removal. Uneven or bumpy areas on the paint could be a sign that rust lies underneath. Smooth out all surfaces to ensure that the primer and paint will be applied smooth. Periodically take a wet cloth and wipe off debris to check the smoothness of the surface underneath.
Step 3: Wash
Move the metal garden furniture onto a flat surface near the hose and give it a good rinse. Spray all surfaces including the underside. All of the fine paint particles and cleaning chemicals should be completely removed. Let the piece dry completely.
Step 4: Sanding
To create a better sticking surface for the primer, you can hand-sand the entire surface of the piece using 180 grit sandpaper. Use circular motions while lightly sanding all surfaces. The sandpaper will create very small grooves on the surface from which the primer can stick to. The paint will be more durable, long lasting and resistant to chipping. Wash and dry once more.
Step 5: Primer Application
Set the metal outdoor furniture atop a large sheet of plastic. Apply a coat of metal primer according to the instructions on the aerosol can. If you intend to use a dark color of paint, select a dark colored primer. Light paints should be paired with light primers such as white. Primer application generally takes more than one coat spaced at intervals of a couple hours.
Step 6: Painting
Select aerosol spray paint designed for application on metal. Rust-Oleum brand paints are an excellent choice. Multiple finishes are available which include glossy and satin. Specialty finishes like “hammered” and “metallic” offer interesting effects. Apply the paint to all surfaces with several coatings. Let the piece dry for 48 hours or more before using. Your metal garden furniture is now fully restored.
- Learn about resin outdoor furniture.
- Learn how to refinish wooden outdoor furniture.
- Learn about mold removal.
