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How to Remove Rust Stains From Exterior Paint

Constance Barker

Rust stains normally occur when metal becomes wet and is left to evaporate on surfaces. Metal that comes in contact with paint, such as nails on a painted home's exterior, can develop rust stains that bleed into the surrounding paint. You can remove the rusted nails and replace with new ones, but that does not solve the rust problem on the paint. A rust remover helps to dissolve rust stains without hindering the paint.

Remove rust stains from exterior paint with rust remover
  1. Wipe the rusted area on the paint with a clean rag to remove any loose rust particles.

  2. Apply a rag soaked in rust remover to the rust stain. For a light rust stain let the rag remain on the stain for 30 minutes. For a heavier stain the rust remover can stay on the paint overnight.

  3. Remove the rag and wipe the rust stain away with a damp rag. The rust stain should be loosened enough to remove the stain completely. You do not have to rinse the rust remover from the paint. Dry the area completely with a clean rag.