Masters Home Improvement

Well cared for metal furniture and fixings can last a lifetime.

While some people prefer simple metalwork, a lick of colour can add moments of brightness to an outdoor area and can highlight decorative areas inside.

Pick a dry day

If the air is damp – rain or fog – there’s a chance the moisture will get under the paint and cause rust spots and more damage down the track.

Clean it up

The first thing to do is clean the old metal.

Wipe down the metal with a brush or dry cloth. This will help you see where the tougher clean is needed. Remove the old paint and rust from the surface with steel wool and emery cloth. Old paint can also be removed a paint stripper.

If there are any rough spots, use a light file, or some wet and dry sandpaper. This will also help get rid of any rust.

For heavy rust areas, try a wire brush or rust converter. Remember to follow the directions. If removing rust leaves you with small holes, these can be filled with metal filler.

When the metal is clean, remove any grease that is present with methylated spirits or a good quality sugar soap.

Mask it up

Before painting, mask off any surrounding areas – wooden frames, doors or windows – with masking tape.

Apply primer

Apply a full coat of metal primer. This will help prevent rust spots – and will make painting easier.

Check painted metal work often, and when it begins to crack and chip off, scrape or sand and repaint.

If you’re painting in the kitchen, the toilet or the bathroom, use a primer with mildew protection.

An aerosol will give the best finish on smooth metal surfaces such as kitchen appliances or radiators.

Heavy-duty primers are hard to clean from brush bristles – so use a brush you’re prepared to throw away afterwards.

If you’re using a spray can, apply thin coats as this helps avoid runs in the paint

Allow the primer to dry thoroughly for at least 24 hours. Once the primer is dry, give it a light sand and apply your first topcoat.

Once this is dry, apply your second coat.

Important- Please read: All information and tips in this publication are of a general nature only and Masters does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information and tips in this publication.  This publication is not intended to be a substitute for expert advice.  Masters advises you to always consult an experienced and qualified person when undertaking jobs of this kind (including consulting a qualified tradesperson such as an electrician or plumber where relevant expert services are required).  You should also consider any safety precautions that may be necessary when undertaking the work described in this publication (including wearing any necessary safety equipment such as safety glasses, goggles or ear protectors or hard hats).  The information and tips in this publication are provided on the basis that Masters excludes all liability for any loss or damage which is suffered or incurred (including, but not limited to, indirect and consequential loss or damage and whether or not such loss or damage could have been foreseen) for any personal injury or damage to property whatsoever resulting from the use of the information and tips in this publication.  Masters also notes that there may be laws, regulations or by-laws with which you must comply when undertaking the work described in this publication.  You should obtain all necessary permissions and permits from council and/or any other relevant statutory body or authority before carrying out any work.  Masters Home Improvement Australia Pty Ltd ABN 21 066 891 307.