Aluminum patio furniture has gained popularity in the modern world. This is due to the affordable cost and low maintenance. In fact, aluminum doesn’t rust, but the paint can peel off with time. So, how do you fix peeling paint on aluminum patio furniture? Read on!
When aluminum furniture faces weather, with time, the paint degrades. And every time you use the furniture, you will notice rust spots on your skin or clothes.
Unfortunately, the weather exposes different layers of paint colors underneath, and the furniture looks ugly.
However, to give your patio furniture a new look, you must first dig out the ugly paint. Then, you can spray the primer and later repaint the furniture to give it a brand new look.
Moreover, you need to learn a few skills on scrapping and repainting the metal surfaces. Well, I will give you a complete guide on fixing a peeling paint on aluminum patio furniture.
Contents
- A Guide on Dealing with Peeling Paint on Aluminum Patio Furniture
- Step 1: Clean the Furniture
- Step 2: Apply Paint Stripper
- Step 3: Scrape the Whole Surface
- Step 4: Sand the Furniture
- Step 5: Clean the Sanding Debris
- Step 6: Spray the Primer
- Step 7: Spray the Top Coat
- Tips to Keep Your Aluminum Patio Furniture Safe
- 1. Keep them in the shade
- 2. Be Careful With the Winter Season
- 3. Protect Your Furniture with Covers
- 4. Regularly Wax Repaint and Wax Your Furniture
- How Do You Remove Oxidation From Painted Aluminum Patio Furniture?
- What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Aluminum Furniture?
- How Do You Remove Paint From Metal Patio Furniture?
- Is Self Etching Primer Good for Aluminum?
- Author
A Guide on Dealing with Peeling Paint on Aluminum Patio Furniture
Take a look at various items you will require;
- Garden hose
- Wire brush
- Paint stripper
- 80 and 120 grit sandpapers
- Mineral spirit
- Phosphoric acid (For severe rust)
- Epoxy primer
- Topcoat metal spray paint
- Protective gloves
- Heavy-duty gloves
- Bristled wire brush
- Microfiber cloth
Step 1: Clean the Furniture
Some rust and old paint spots remain on the furniture surface. To ease the scrapping job, clean the furniture with a garden hose. Ideally, adjust the nozzle to high pressure to remove most of the rust.
If some rust and paint are stubborn, leave them for scrapping.
Step 2: Apply Paint Stripper
Apply a thick layer of paint stripper on the furniture surface and leave it for about 30 minutes to penetrate.
After the duration, the paint will be easy to scrape.
Step 3: Scrape the Whole Surface
Use a wire brush or a scraper to remove the original paint. Scrape the whole surface keenly, observing severely rusted areas.
If some of the parts don’t get smooth, don’t worry. Sanding will make everything right.
Also read: Fade resistant outdoor umbrellas
Step 4: Sand the Furniture
Start with 80 grit sandpaper to remove the remaining stubborn paint and rust. Afterward, use 120 grit sandpaper to smoothen the surface for the primer and paint.
However, you may learn that some parts are highly rusted. Apply phosphoric acid keenly following the manufacturer’s guidelines and leave it for around 30 minutes.
Later, use a steel bristled brush to clear everything. Always be attentive and wear your gloves and protective glasses while carrying out the process.
Step 5: Clean the Sanding Debris
Again, use a garden hose with pressure to clean the sanding debris. Usually, they are tiny dust particles that will require you to keenly focus on the furniture surface while cleaning.
After cleaning, dry the furniture with a microfiber cloth and apply mineral spirit on the surface using a cloth or a sponge.
Place your furniture in a well-ventilated area, but avoid direct sunlight.
Also read: Cleaning powder coated aluminum patio furniture
Step 6: Spray the Primer
Spray the epoxy primer on the surface in back and forth motion. Apply the first coat and leave it to dry before proceeding to the second coating.
When spraying the second coat, move the bottle keenly for full coverage. You can check the manufacturer’s instructions to know the exact time it would take to dry.
Step 7: Spray the Top Coat
Find topcoat paint that is formulated for metal surfaces. Check on the manufacturer’s instructions or consult the paint shop attendant to learn if they have stocked specific paints for aluminum surfaces.
After applying, place your furniture in a well-ventilated area and leave it for around 24 hours to completely dry before use.
Also read: Desert friendly outdoor patio furniture
Tips to Keep Your Aluminum Patio Furniture Safe
1. Keep them in the shade
Although they are designed for outdoor use, keeping them away from direct sunlight can extend their lifespan.
Place the furniture under a permanently shaded area like a roof, trees, umbrellas, or purchase portable structures like car covers.
Also read: How do you cool down a hot patio in summer?
2. Be Careful With the Winter Season
Unless you regularly use the furniture, you shouldn’t leave them exposed to weather during winter.
You can store the furniture during weekdays when you don’t need them and take them outside when necessary. You should apply this rule even if you have protected the furniture with a shade.
Cold weather sliding glass doors
3. Protect Your Furniture with Covers
At times, liquids may spill on the furniture and degrade the paints. To extend your paint’s lifespan, use waterproof patio furniture covers at all times.
How to keep patio furniture cover from blowing away
However, when choosing covers, measure each piece and find covers that fit well on your furniture. Oversized covers may be blown away by the wind, especially during fall.
4. Regularly Wax Repaint and Wax Your Furniture
You can plan on showing your furniture some love at least once a year instead of waiting for the paints to peel off completely.
Regular repainting isn’t as expensive as complete repainting. It’s a part of the minor maintenance required in most patio items.
How Do You Remove Oxidation From Painted Aluminum Patio Furniture?
Light oxidation can be eliminated by rubbing the surface with vinegar and water.
Mix vinegar and water in the same ratio on a container. Then, rub against the aluminum surface with a cloth or a sponge.
However, if the oxidation is too much, use phosphoric acid but rinse the surface afterward and dry it. You can apply some primer and repaint to prevent further oxidation.
What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Aluminum Furniture?
Choose latex or acrylic paint formulated for metal surfaces for your aluminum furniture. Remember to read the manufacturer’s instructions before repainting.
How Do You Remove Paint From Metal Patio Furniture?
First, clean the furniture with high-pressure water and wear protective gear. Afterward, scrape the surface and sand where necessary. Then, clean the sanding debris, and your furniture will be ready for repainting.
Is Self Etching Primer Good for Aluminum?
Self-etching primer is formulated for aluminum, fiberglass, and other metals for better overcoat adhesion.
Peeling paint on aluminum patio furniture can be prevented by simple maintenance practices. Enjoy your outdoor living space!
