Spray painting outdoor furniture is an easy and affordable way to transform old, worn out pieces into vibrant showstoppers. With the right preparation, paints, and technique, you can give your outdoor furniture an impressive makeover. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to spray paint outdoor furniture like a pro.
Introduction
Outdoor furniture takes a beating from the elements. Over time, the sun, rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations can cause it to fade, crack, peel, and deteriorate. While you may be tempted to toss faded furniture and buy new pieces, spray painting can breathe new life into worn outdoor sets at a fraction of the cost.
Spray painting allows you to not only change the color but also provides a protective barrier against future damage. With the proper prep work and paints designed for outdoor use, a fresh coat of spray paint can restore your furniture to a like-new condition. The transformation is dramatic and gratifying.
This guide will walk you through the entire process of prepping, painting, and sealing outdoor furniture using spray paint. Follow these steps and tips to achieve flawless, long-lasting results.
Benefits of Spray Painting Outdoor Furniture
Spray painting has many advantages over brush painting:
- Quick and even coverage – Spray paint applies smoothly and evenly over large surface areas much faster than painting by hand. You can coat an entire chair or table in just minutes.
- Bold, consistent color – Spray paint delivers rich, bold, consistent color across all surfaces. It won’t leave behind faint brush marks or uneven coverage.
- Professional quality finish – Properly sprayed furniture takes on a sleek, polished look you can’t achieve with a brush. The results rival professional finishes.
- Durability – High-quality spray paints provide superior adhesion and a protective finish that stands up well to sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes.
- Cost effective – Spray painting is very affordable compared to buying new patio sets. Cans of spray paint cost just $3 to $7 dollars each.
- Customization – Spraying makes it easy to customize furniture with different colors and patterns like stripes or stencils.
- Minimal prep work – Unlike wood staining, spray painting doesn’t require extensive sanding and stripping. Just a light scuffing prepares most surfaces.
For outdoor projects, spray paint is the clear winner over brush painting. Follow the steps below to get flawless results.
How to Prepare Outdoor Furniture for Spray Painting
Proper prep work ensures the new spray paint adheres well and resists chipping or peeling over time. Here are the key steps:
Clean the Furniture
Outdoor furniture collects layers of dirt, mildew, pollution, sap, and other grime. Remove built-up gunk with a strong cleaner or degreaser and a stiff scrub brush. Pay special attention to crevices and engraved details. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before painting.
Sand the Surface
Lightly scuff sand with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface. This helps the paint adhere better than to a super smooth finish. Remove any loose paint or splinters. Vacuum up all dust.
Remove Hardware
Remove any hardware like screws, knobs, hooks, handles or hinges. Set them aside so you can easily reattach later. Fill any screw holes with wood filler and let dry completely. Sand smooth.
Use Paint Stripper (If Needed)
If the existing finish is very thick, blistered or peeling, you’ll need to strip it completely before repainting. Apply a paint stripper, let it work for 15 minutes, then scrape off the softened finish with a putty knife. Repeat until all the old paint is gone. Rinse stripper residue.
Fill Cracks and Holes
Inspect furniture for cracks, holes, or splits in the wood. Fill these completely with wood filler and allow to dry before sanding smooth. This prevents air bubbles from forming under the new paint.
Prime Bare Wood
If stripping removed the old paint entirely, apply a coat of exterior wood primer before painting. Let the primer cure fully before spray painting.
Now the furniture is prepped and ready for a fresh coat of spray paint.
Tips for Spray Painting Outdoor Furniture
Follow these tips as you spray for flawless coverage:
- Use exterior paint – Only use spray paints specially formulated for outdoor use on patio furniture. These durables sprays stand up to sun, rain, and snow without cracking, peeling or fading.
- Paint in thin coats – Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick, heavy coat. Thin layers dry faster and create a smoother finish.
- Follow the can’s instructions – Refer to the manufacturer’s directions for recommended spray distance, drying times between coats, and any special instructions for best results.
- Keep the can parallel and level – Hold the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface. Keep your strokes smooth, steady, and even.
- Overlap strokes slightly – Each stroke should overlap the previous stroke by about 50% to ensure consistent coverage.
- Spray side to side, not up and down – Vertical strokes tend to create drips and unevenness.
- Work in sections – Paint just one seat, tabletop or section at a time for best control.
- Spray away from yourself – Orient the can’s spray fan so any wind blows overspray away from you.
- Watch the weather – Don’t spray in windy, dusty conditions or if rain is expected within 24 hours.
- Go with the grain – When painting wood, spray in the direction of the grain for a smooth finish.
- Be patient – Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another. Drying times vary by brand.
Take your time following these tips for beautiful, professional-looking results.
How Many Coats of Spray Paint for Outdoor Furniture?
Most outdoor paint jobs require a minimum of two to three thin coats for complete coverage and protection:
- Coat 1 – The first “mist” coat acts as the primer and helps the paint adhere. Make it very light.
- Coat 2 – The second coat provides the main coverage and color. Apply somewhat heavier but still thin and even.
- Coat 3 – Optional third coat for extra protection and vibrancy on high use items.
- Drying time – Allow at least 1-2 hours drying time between coats, depending on humidity. Test if fully cured before adding the next coat.
- Inspect – After the final coat dries, inspect for any thin spots and do a touch-up coat if needed.
Applying multiple thin coats prevents drips and runs. It also allows you to fully cover all angles and crevices. Be patient and allow proper drying between coats.
Top 4 Brands of Spray Paint for Outdoor Furniture
Look for exterior-grade spray paints from reputable brands designed specifically for outdoor use. Top brands include:
1. Krylon
Krylon makes a full line of spray paints and primers for outdoor projects. Look for their exterior-rated coats like Krylon Fusion All-In-One and Krylon Outdoor.
2. Rust-Oleum
Rust-Oleum is another leader in outdoor spray paints. Their Specialty and Universal All Surface lines work great for patio furniture.
3. Montana Cans
Montana Cans are a top choice for professional spray paint projects. Their exterior MTN 94 spray paint provides exceptional coverage.
4. Valspar
Valspar exterior spray paints are available at Lowe’s stores. Their Duramax line comes in many colors perfect for furniture.
Stick with top-rated brands designed for outdoor use and you’ll get long-lasting results. Avoid cheap generics.
How to Spray Paint Metal Outdoor Furniture
Metal furniture requires some special preparation and paint to withstand the elements:
- Clean and lightly sand – Remove rust and loose paint. Scuff shine with 120-220 grit sandpaper.
- Apply a metal primer – Prime bare metal with a coating designed to bind to metal. Rust-Oleum and Krylon both make excellent metal primers.
- Use an enamel topcoat – Look for exterior enamel spray paints meant for metal. The hard enamel resists fading, chipping, and corrosion.
- Try a textured finish (optional) – For added protection on iron furniture, apply a textured spray like hammered, wrinkled or stone finish.
- Multiple thin coats – As always, apply at least 2-3 thin, even coats for full coverage and protection.
With the right primer and paints, spray painting rejuvenates tired metal patio sets. The fresh finish hides rust and makes the set look great for years.
How to Stencil and Add Designs to Spray Painted Furniture
Want to take your spray painted furniture up a notch? Consider adding some handpainted accents like stenciled patterns, stripes or distressed details.
Here are some easy ways to add decorative flair:
- Stenciling – Cut out designs from cardboard, poster board or thick plastic. Tape the stencil in place. Spray over it lightly, then carefully remove.
- Freehand painting – Use small foam brushes and acrylic craft paints to hand paint scallops, dots, borders, or botanical designs. Clear coat when dry.
- Stripes – Mask off stripes with painters tape. Spray one color, let dry, then mask off more stripes and spray again.
- Distressing – After painting, rub edges lightly with sandpaper to expose wood. Wipe on white paint, then immediately wipe off for an antique look.
- Stickers – Adhere vinyl stickers before painting. Carefully remove after the final coat to reveal the base color underneath.
Adding creative accents takes spray painted furniture from basic to beautiful fast.
How to Seal and Protect Spray Painted Outdoor Furniture
The final step is applying a clear sealer over the spray paint. The sealer protects the finish from damage and prevents fading, yellowing, or chalking over time.
Use an exterior-grade clear coat designed for outdoor use:
- Spray on polyurethane – Look for exterior poly in a matte or satin gloss. Apply 2-3 thin coats just as you did the paint.
- Exterior epoxy – Two-part epoxies form a thick, durable top coat that protects from scratches and water damage.
- Marine varnish – High-gloss marine varnish makes an attractive sealant for teak and other wood furniture.
- UV-resistant clear coat – Clear coats with UV blockers help prevent fading damage from sun exposure.
Reapply clear sealant every year or two to keep your painted furniture looking its best. With regular upkeep, a fresh coat of spray paint can keep your outdoor furniture vibrant for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spray Painting Outdoor Furniture
How long does spray paint last on outdoor furniture?
With proper surface prep and finishing, spray paint can last 3-5 years on outdoor furniture under normal use. Touch up chips and faded areas as needed to maintain the finish.
What kind of spray paint adheres best to plastic patio furniture?
Look for spray paints specifically formulated for plastic when painting resin, vinyl, or polyethylene furniture. Krylon Fusion for Plastic bonds best for a long-lasting finish.
Can I spray paint cushions or fabric on outdoor furniture?
No, spray paint is only for solid surfaces like wood, metal, resin, etc. Use outdoor fabric paint for cushions, pillows, and umbrellas. Or just buy new replacement cushions.
Is it okay to spray paint in cold temperatures?
Spraying below 50°F (10°C) isn’t recommended. Paint dries too slowly and can stay tacky. Wait for a warmer day for best results.
How soon can I use spray painted furniture?
Allow the paint to cure fully before placing furniture back in service – about 7 days for most brands. Curing takes longer in higher humidity.
How do I get a smooth, bubble-free finish when spraying?
Multiple thin coats create a smoother look than one thick coat. Overlap strokes and keep the can the recommended distance from the surface.
Conclusion
With some basic DIY skills and the right products, you can give tired outdoor furniture a spectacular makeover with spray paint. Proper prep and using paints designed for outdoor durability will allow your handiwork to withstand the elements for years.
Spray painting is also a budget-friendly way to change the color scheme of your patio, deck or poolside. You can easily coordinate with cushions or exterior house paint.
So revive faded furniture and save money by spraying on a fresh new look. Just be sure to use exterior-rated spray paints and finishes to protect your makeover for seasons to come.