How to Clean Off Rust
When the paint or other exterior coating on a metal surface is damaged, the metal underneath is exposed to the elements and eventually, the metal will begin to rust. Rust can get worse more quickly in high-humidity. Left untreated, the rust will eventually consume the metal piece and it will have to be replaced. But if detected early enough, rust can be removed. It's important to remove all of the rust. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Safety goggles
- Heavy gloves
- Face mask
- Wire brush or wire wheel with an electric drill
- Coarse sandpaper
- Sanding block
- Steel wool
- Aerosol rust converter
- Primer paint
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Instructions
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Use safety goggles, heavy gloves and a face mask. Remove loose rust with a wire brush or a wire wheel. Wire brushes are inexpensive and effective, but will require more effort, particularly if a large area of rust is being removed. Wire wheels cost more, but they can remove rust much faster. Wire wheels has a post designed to fit into an electric drill, which rotates the wheel.
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Remove the underlying rust with coarse, six to 50 grit sandpaper. If the rusted surface is flat, consider attaching the sandpaper to a sanding block so you'll have something to hold and so you can sand more quickly.
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Remove any rust in curves or bends with steel wool, which is more flexible than a wire brush, wheel or sandpaper.
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Spray the area with an aerosol rust converter to remove any fine rust particles and helps prevent rust from forming again. Follow the manufacture's instructions; not all converters are used the same way.
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Spray at least one coat of primer onto the surface to help seal the metal area and further prevent rust from developing again. Then paint the surface a final coat of paint.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety goggles, heavy gloves, and a face mask while exposed to rust.
