Good preparation is the key to all successful painting jobs, and this applies to rusty metal surfaces too. It is important that all loose flaking rust is removed from the surface, several methods to remove rust can be used.
Sandblasting is the fastest method, and particularly effective for removing rust from ornamental iron work, wrought iron, hand rails and hard to reach areas. The rust and flaky paint are blasted from the surface using fine sand blown at through a nozzle at high pressure using compressed air. Small units can be purchased from hardware stores and larger ones can be hired. Wearing the correct protective clothing whilst sand blasting is essential.
Wire brushing and sanding are also effective and a more accessible, safer methods of removing rust. Sweep over the rusted surface with a wire brush several times, continue with 80 grit sandpaper and finish with 120 grit to leave a smooth surface for painting. At this stage fill any holes and cracks with a builder’s bog.
Alternatively use a rust convertor to literally convert the rusty surface to a stable ready to paint surface, whilst stopping the further spread of rust. No brushing or sanding required, rust convertors are the least labour intensive method for removing rusting. Ideal for ornamental work and other areas which are difficult, the downside to rust convertors is the pitted rough surface finish.
Once the rust has been removed using one of the above methods clean and degrease the surface before applying a quality metal primer and completing with an epoxy enamel for the best anti-corrosive system.
