2020-12-12
If you have cracking, peeling paint, or rust spots on your patio furniture, here’s how to fix it up and make it look brand new again!
• Prep time: 45 minutes • Time spent doing stuff: 30 minutes • Time spent waiting around: 45 minutes • Total project time: 2 hours
Step 1: Remove Old Finish and Rust
Clean the metal with a vinegar/water solution (50/50) or use water with a mild detergent and a scrub brush or rag to remove dirt and grime. Use a bleach/water solution or a commercial mold remover to remove any mold or mildew. You don’t need to worry about getting it completely smooth; just get any loose pieces or pieces that are about to come loose.
Step 2: Sand your patio furniture
Use a random orbit palm sander to remove the rest of the rust and any other small flakes of paint. Start by sanding with 60 or 80 grit paper to get the rust and paint off of the metal, then switch to 120 or 150 grit to help smooth out the transition between the existing paint and the newly sanded spots. Sand rough spots before painting metal outdoor furniture You can sand by hand anywhere your palm sander won’t reach, but it takes a lot longer to do it by hand, so use the palm sander where you can! Keep sanding until the furniture feels smooth to the touch. It’s ok if you still see some rust-colored areas; just make sure any loose flakes of rust are gone and that those areas feel smooth. Step 3: Clean your patio furniture
After you finish sanding, wipe down the furniture with a wet sponge to remove any dust and dirt. Let the furniture completely air dry before painting.
Step 4: Apply Paint
Spray on a coat of True Value XO-Rust rust-inhibiting paint or apply it using a small to medium-sized paintbrush. Spray painting gets the job done fast and provides excellent coverage and a smooth finish. Hold the can about 8 to 12 inches from the object you’re painting and keep the can moving to avoid excess paint that can drip. Apply several light coats. If you’ve painted furniture, let the paint dry for at least 24 hours before using.
Step 5: Enjoy!
After 24 hours you can put cushions back on your chairs, set up your patio umbrella, and start using your brand-new-looking teak outdoor sofa and chairs again!