How to Restore Metal Outdoor Furniture: Super Easy Steps

Metal outdoor furniture can add charm and character to your garden, patio, or balcony. However, exposure to the elements can cause metal furniture to rust, fade, peel, or crack over time. If you have metal outdoor furniture that looks dull, worn, or damaged, don't despair. You can restore it to its former glory with some simple steps and materials. In this blog post, we will show you how to restore metal outdoor furniture so it will look better than new.

How to restore outdoor metal furniture

Credit: Donald Tong

Whether you have questions about how to restore painted faded metal outdoor furniture or how to restore old metal outdoor furniture, we will provide useful tips and tricks. Now, let's discover the step-by-step guide for renewing your metal items and transferring your gorgeous outdoor spaces.

Step 1: Clean and prepare your metal furniture

The first step to restoring metal outdoor furniture is to clean and prepare the surface for painting. You will need a garden hose, a wire brush, sandpaper, a soft cloth, soap or detergent, and water. Here's what you need to do:

• Remove any upholstered cushions or decorative throw pillows from your metal furniture and set them aside.
• Lightly spray the metal furniture frames with a garden hose to wash away the most significant pieces of dirt and debris.
• Wipe the metallic surfaces down using a soft cloth soaked in soapy water.
• Rinse the cloth off and repeat wiping with clean water.
• Use the wire brush to scrape off any loose paint or rust from the metal furniture. You can use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or chips.
• Wipe the metal furniture with a tack cloth or a non-wax tack cloth and acetone to remove any dust or residue.
• Let the metal furniture dry completely before moving on to the next step.

To guarantee a clean surface for the next procedure, clean your metal furniture

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Step 2: Prime and paint your outdoor metal furniture

The second step to restoring metal outdoor furniture is to prime and paint the surface with rust-resistant and weatherproof products. You will need a metal primer, metal paint, a paintbrush or a roller, or a spray paint can.

• Choose a metal primer that is compatible with your metal furniture and the type of paint you will use. For example, if you have aluminum furniture, you can use an aluminum primer. If you have wrought iron furniture, you can use a rust-preventive primer. You can also use a universal primer that works on any metal surface.
• Apply the primer according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can use a paintbrush, a roller, or a spray can depending on your preference and the size of your furniture. Make sure to cover all the areas evenly and avoid drips or runs.
• Let the primer dry completely before applying the paint. You may need to apply two or more coats of primer depending on the condition of your metal furniture.
• Choose the metal paint that is suitable for outdoor use and matches your desired color and finish. You can use latex or oil-based paint for brushing, or spray paint for spraying. Some of the best brands of spray paint for metal outdoor furniture are Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover and Krylon COLORmaxx Spray Paint.
• Apply the paint according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can use a paintbrush, a roller, or a spray can depending on your preference and the size of your furniture. Make sure to cover all the areas evenly and avoid drips or runs.
• Let the paint dry completely before applying the next coat. You may need to apply two or more coats of paint depending on the coverage and durability you want.

Add primer and paint to your metal outdoor items

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Step 3: Protect and maintain the metal furniture

The third step to restoring metal outdoor furniture is to protect and maintain it so it will last longer and look better. You will need some car wax, some soft clothes, some covers, and some cushions.

• Apply some car wax to your metal furniture using a soft cloth after the paint has cured completely. This will help seal the paint and add some shine and protection to your metal outdoor furniture. 
• Wipe off any excess wax with another soft cloth.
• Store your metal furniture indoors during harsh weather conditions such as winter or heavy rain. If you don't have enough space indoors, you can cover your metal furniture with waterproof covers that fit snugly over them. 
• Clean your metal furniture regularly with mild soap and water and dry it thoroughly afterward. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that can scratch or damage the paint.
• Add some cushions or throw pillows to your metal furniture for extra comfort and style. You can choose weather-resistant cushions which are covered by leather and easy to clean.

 

When the weather is bad, keep your metal furniture indoors

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Restoring metal outdoor furniture is not as hard as it may seem. With some basic tools and materials, you can transform your old and rusty metal furniture into a stunning and unique addition to your outdoor space. We hope the above blog answers your question of how to restore metal outdoor furniture. Now it's time for you to add character, personality, and style to your outdoor space by following the simple steps and tips. You will be amazed by the results and enjoy your metal furniture for years to come.