You start out with gorgeous outdoor furniture, but after a few seasons, you start to see some rust and dirt. Here are some hints for giving your old patio furniture a whole new look.
START WITH A CLEAN SURFACE
Whether you’re working with metal, plastic, or wood furniture, you need to start with a clean surface. Clean all the dirt from the piece, then remove rust and other imperfections. Lightly sand wooden surfaces. Remove all flaking and loose paint. Wash the furniture after each step to keep it clean. Take hardware off the furniture and label it so you can put it back when you’re done.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS
If you’re using a brush-on paint, make sure you choose the appropriate tools for the job. Pick smaller brushes and rollers to fit into the tight spaces on your patio furniture. A larger paint roller would work well on surfaces like a tabletop. Feeling creative? Used painter’s tape or masking tape to create designs on the furniture.
CHOOSE YOUR PAINT
If you’re using a brush-on paint, choose a good primer and make sure you apply it smoothly. If you pick a spray paint, you can skip the priming step. Make sure you choose a paint formulated for use on outdoor furniture. Working with a spray paint, remember to keep the paint the required distance from the surface and work in quick bursts. Be careful of dripping. Plastic furniture also requires a special paint to make sure it will bond, no matter if it’s spray paint or roll-on paint. Work in thinner coats, which go on smoothly and dry quickly. A good rule of thumb is to use two coats or whatever is suggested on the manufacturer’s label.
WHERE TO WORK
You can paint any time of year, within the temperature guidelines on the label. Choose a well-ventilated area with plenty of shade and stay hydrated while you work.