How to Paint Wrought Iron

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By Granath Color Works
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Wrought Iron Railing

Paint wrought iron railings and furniture to restore them to their original beauty. This article will explain how to prepare and paint wrought iron so it lasts.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Wire brush
Metal primer
Metal enamel
China bristle brush
Paint thinner
Penetrol (Paint conditioner)

Step 1

Wire brush rust spots thoroughly

Prepare the wrought iron by using the wire brush to remove loose paint and rust. This is important because the wrought iron will continue to rust under the new paint and will eventually bubble through if painted over.
Step 2

Use the paint thinner to clean the spots on the wrought iron that were wire brushed. It is also a good idea to clean the flat surfaces at the same time.
Step 3

Rust-Oleum Primer

Use oil base metal primer and the bristle brush to spot-prime the bare wrought iron and allow to dry thoroughly. I prefer the rustoleum primer.
Step 4

Benjamin Moore Metal Enamel

Use oil base metal enamel and the bristle brush for the top coat on the wrought iron. One coat is enough if repainting the same color, but two will be required if changing color significantly. I prefer the Benjamin Moore Metal Enamel. Work systematically, painting one section at a time, so you don't loose track of where you are (easy to miss spots on railings or furniture...especially when repainting the same color).
Step 5

Penetrol paint conditioner

Use Penetrol paint conditioner to thin the enamel at a rate of 1 part Penetrol to 8 parts enamel. This will help the paint flow better, reduce drips & runs, and also aids as a rust inhibitor.