Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500443
06/24/03

Painting Metal Outdoor Furniture - Refurbishing


Remove general soil and grit with detergent and
water. With steel wool, or sandpaper, or wire brush,
remove all loose, peeled paint and rust. Wipe surface
using cloth dampened with turpentine, or vinegar.

No paint will stick to a greasy or wet surface.
First coat should be a "metal primer" or "rust retardant"
type paint. Second coat can be of enamel or paint
suitable for place item is to be used, usually outdoor
enamel. When painted surface is completely dry (a couple
days) apply protective finish as if item were new.

Even small chips or scratches should be touched up
immediately with primer followed by matching paint to
prevent rust forming.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from USDA bulletin,
Cleaning Metal Furniture.

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