Paint Rusty Railings

Metal railings turn rusty as their protective coats wear off. In order to restore metal railings to like-new condition, you will need to prepare the metal and then coat it with primer and paint. This will require a good amount of time preparing before you even paint, to ensure you have a smooth surface that will be less likely to rust in inclement weather. This article will tell you how to paint rusty railings.

Steps

  1. Cover the area around the railings carefully. Use drop cloths for larger spaces and painter's tape for smaller spaces.
  2. Wear protective clothing. Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Put on safety goggles and a dust mask before starting any work. Metal flakes will be scattered as you prepare the metal.
  3. Mix a solution of half vinegar and half water in a bucket.
    • You can also use diluted, mild detergent.
  4. Scrub the railing thoroughly with your cleaning solution. This should remove dirt and remaining rust.
  5. Rinse the railing and allow it to dry before continuing.
  6. Use a wire brush to slough off any loose rust flakes on all the surfaces of the railings. Most rusty railings have a layer of flaky rust covering their surface. Use the wire brush to remove as much rust as possible.
    • If you have large or intricate railings, or if you have a lot of rust on the surface, you can buy a wire brush attachment for a drill. Attach the brush to the drill and move along the entire surface of the railing. It will make the job easier.
  7. Sand the surface of the railing with medium-grit sandpaper. Medium grit is between 80 and 120 grit. This is called scuff-sanding and it should take gloss off the surface and allow the primer and paint to bond more easily.
    • Sand rough spots with coarse sandpaper, from 40 to 60 grit.
  8. Rub the surface of the railing with a tack cloth to remove dust from sanding.
  9. Apply your first coat of rust-inhibiting primer immediately after sanding and wiping the rail. This is sometimes called "direct-to-metal" primer. First apply your coat of paint, then brush it into the crevices before it dries.
  10. Check your primer's directions on how long it must dry before your second coat. Once again, use a brush to get into all the crevices of the metal railing.
    • If you do not have time to do all the steps in 1 day, wait until the next to sand and apply primer and paint.
  11. Allow the primer to dry according to the product's directions.
  12. Apply a layer of topcoat. You can use a spray can, roller or brush to apply the topcoat. Brush the coat with a paint brush to remove any drips and get into the crevices.
    • Many people prefer to use semi-gloss or high-gloss paint for their topcoat. These finishes add a shine to the railings and can make them easier to clean.
  13. Allow the topcoat to dry completely.
  14. Add another layer of topcoat, if you do not feel it is adequately covered.
  15. Remove your drop cloths and tape and clean your brushes according to the paint can's instructions.

Tips

  • Paint the railing immediately after you sand it to avoid getting dirt or moisture on the railing.
  • Make sure the railing is completely dry before starting to paint it.
  • If your railing is still rusty or you want to avoid using a wire brush for a long period of time, use rust reformer instead. Apply it to the railing after you have given it a quick wire brushing, and follow the package instructions as far as time and treatment.
  • The more careful you are when preparing your railing, the longer it will go without rusting. Although all metal railings will eventually rust.
  • Make sure your paint is indicated for outdoor use.
  • Some metal paints, like Hammerite, are made for rust-proofing. If you use this or a similar paint, you may be able to avoid using a primer.
  • Spray painting is the quickest way to get an even coat on your railing. It is a more expensive option.

Warnings

  • Don't paint if the temperature is over {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}, or if there is high humidity.
  • Don't inhale rust or metal flakes. Wear a dust mask to avoid harm to your respiratory system.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire brush
  • Drill (optional)
  • Bucket
  • Water
  • Vinegar
  • Medium sandpaper
  • Rust-proof primer
  • Paint
  • Protective cloths
  • Safety goggles
  • Painter's tape
  • Dust mask
  • Scrub brush
  • Rust reformer (optional)
  • Tack cloth

Sources and Citations

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