Repainting metal outdoor furniture can refresh old, faded pieces and protect them from further wear and tear. With some preparation and the right materials, it’s easy to repaint metal furniture and give it a like-new appearance.
Benefits of Repainting Metal Outdoor Furniture
Keeping metal patio and lawn furniture properly painted provides a number of advantages:
- Restores original color that has faded from sun exposure and wear
- Protects metal from corrosion and rust
- Allows you to update colors and styles
- Extends the life of older furniture at a fraction of replacement cost
Repainting metal furniture every year or two, especially in harsh climates, helps maintain its beauty and durability.
Supplies Needed
Repainting metal furniture requires just a few basic supplies:
- Exterior paint primer
- Exterior enamel spray paint or brushed-on paint
- Paintbrushes and rollers (for brushed-on paint)
- Paint tray (for brushed-on paint)
- Sandpaper
- Painters tape
- Drop cloths
- Paint thinner and rags (for oil-based paints)
For best results, choose exterior-grade primers and paints designed specifically for metal. Enamel paints provide a smooth, durable finish that resists chipping and stands up to sun, rain, and other outdoor conditions.
Preparing the Furniture
Proper preparation is key to achieving an attractive, long-lasting paint job on metal furniture. Follow these steps:
Clean the Surfaces
Use a hose, pressure washer, or scrub brush with soap and water to thoroughly clean each piece. This removes dirt, mildew, chalky paint, and other debris so the new paint adheres well.
Sand Glossy Areas
Lightly sand any remaining glossy spots on the metal with fine-grit sandpaper. This helps the paint grip.
Repair Damage
Inspect furniture for dents, cracks, broken welds, missing screws, and other damage. Make any needed repairs before painting.
Remove Hardware
Detach any hardware, pulls, knobs, or removable parts for easier painting. Place hardware in containers to keep organized.
Tape Off Areas
Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted, such as glass, cushions, and removable parts.
Apply Primer
Once the metal is prepped, apply a coat of exterior metal primer according to label directions. Primer promotes excellent paint adhesion.
Painting the Furniture
Follow these tips when applying the new paint:
Work in Thin Coats
Apply paint in light, even coats versus trying to cover fully in one thick coat. Multiple thin coats provide a smoother finish.
Follow Drying Times
Allow each coat to dry completely before adding another. This prevents drips, runs, and uneven drying.
Use Smooth Strokes
When using spray paint, keep the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface and apply with smooth, back-and-forth strokes overlapping slightly. When brush painting, use smooth strokes following the contour of the metal.
Get Full Coverage
Paint all sides and angles of the furniture, just as you would a wall. Don’t forget undersides, inner corners, and hard-to-reach spots.
Apply Additional Coats
Most furniture needs 2 to 3 coats of paint for complete coverage and an even sheen. Allow proper drying time between coats.
Remove Tape Promptly
Carefully remove all painter’s tape immediately after the final coat before the paint fully dries. This prevents peeling up fresh paint.
Drying and Curing
The paint on metal furniture needs proper drying and curing time before using the pieces:
- Allow painted furniture to dry 24 hours between coats.
- Allow the final coat to dry at least 24 to 48 hours before light use.
- Avoid placing heavy items on painted furniture for 5 to 7 days while paint fully cures.
- Keep furniture out of rain and sprinklers for 2 to 3 days minimum while curing.
Once fully cured, the furniture can be placed back outdoors and enjoyed. Properly repainted metal furniture should last for several years before needing touch-ups.
How to Repaint Metal Outdoor Furniture: FAQ
Can I use indoor paint on outdoor furniture?
No, indoor paints are not formulated to withstand sun, rain, and temperature extremes. Always use exterior-grade primer and paint on outdoor metal furniture.
What kind of paint works best?
Enamel spray paints and brushed-on enamels provide the most durable, chip-resistant finish on metal furniture. Avoid cheaper acrylic paints.
How do I avoid brush marks when painting?
Use short, smooth strokes, keep a wet edge, and thin the paint slightly to prevent visible brush marks in the paint finish.
What’s the easiest way to paint furniture?
Spray painting with an enamel paint allows you to cover metal surfaces quickly and evenly without brush marks. Just remember to use light coats.
How many coats of paint should I apply?
Most metal furniture needs a coat of primer followed by 2 to 3 topcoats for full coverage and an even, opaque finish.
Can I paint over rust?
No, any rust must be sanded, scraped, or scrubbed off before priming and painting metal furniture for proper adhesion and protection.
Conclusion
With some basic materials and the right techniques, it’s easy to make tired metal patio furniture look fresh and new again. Taking the time to properly prepare the furniture, apply primer, and use adequate coats of exterior enamel paint will allow the finish to last for several seasons. Follow these steps for repainting metal furniture and you’ll love the upgraded look without the cost of buying new pieces.