How To Refinish Rusted Iron Patio Furniture

Iron patio furniture is a classic and elegant choice for any outdoor space. However, over time, iron can rust, making your furniture look unsightly and even posing a safety hazard. If your iron patio furniture has started to rust, don't despair! With a little bit of time and effort, you can refinish it and restore it to its former glory.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:

Wire brush
Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
Rust converter
Primer
Paint or sealant
Clean cloths or rags
(Optional) Orbital sander

Step 2: Clean the Furniture

The first step is to clean the furniture thoroughly. This will remove any dirt, grease, or other debris that could interfere with the refinishing process. Use a wire brush to scrub away any loose rust. Then, wipe down the furniture with a clean cloth or rag dampened with water.

Step 3: Remove the Rust

Once the furniture is clean, you need to remove the rust. There are a few different ways to do this, but one of the most effective is to use a rust converter. Rust converters are chemical solutions that convert rust into a stable compound that can be painted over. Apply the rust converter to the rusted areas and allow it to sit for the amount of time specified on the product label. Once the rust has been converted, rinse the furniture thoroughly with water.

Step 4: Sand the Furniture

Once the rust has been removed, you need to sand the furniture to smooth out the surface. Start with 120-grit sandpaper and sand in the direction of the grain. Once you have sanded the entire surface, switch to 220-grit sandpaper and sand again. This will create a smooth, even surface that is ready for priming and painting.

Step 5: Prime the Furniture

Before you paint the furniture, you need to prime it. Primer helps to create a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to. Apply a thin coat of primer to the entire surface of the furniture and allow it to dry completely.

Step 6: Paint the Furniture

Once the primer has dried, you can begin painting the furniture. Choose a paint that is specifically designed for outdoor use. Apply a thin, even coat of paint to the entire surface of the furniture and allow it to dry completely. Once the first coat has dried, apply a second coat of paint for added protection.

Step 7: Seal the Furniture

Once the paint has dried, you need to seal the furniture to protect it from the elements. Apply a thin coat of sealant to the entire surface of the furniture and allow it to dry completely. Once the sealant has dried, your iron patio furniture will be refinished and ready to enjoy for years to come.

Tips

If the rust is particularly heavy, you may need to repeat steps 2 and 3 before sanding.
If you are using an orbital sander, be sure to use a fine-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the furniture.
Allow each coat of primer and paint to dry completely before applying the next coat.
Once the furniture is refinished, be sure to clean it regularly to prevent rust from forming again.