How to Repair Rusted Steel Windows
Distinguished by their unsurpassed strength and longevity, steel windows are highly functional in homes. Although exceptionally durable, steel windows are susceptible to rust when scratched or dented. Water, carbon dioxide and oxygen permeate exposed or damaged portions of steel windows, causing reddish-brown rust to develop on the steel surface. Neglecting to eradicate rust from steel windows allows it to proliferate and weaken them. Promptly repair rusted steel windows to restore and sustain their structural integrity. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Wire brush or medium-grade sandpaper
- Disposable paintbrush
- Naval jelly
- Safety goggles
- Acid-proof rubber gloves
- Garden hose
- Medium-grade steel wool
- Mineral spirits
- Towel
- Anti-rust metal primer
- Masking tape
- Acrylic topcoat paint
- Non-disposable paintbrush
Instructions
-
-
1
Scrub the rusted window with a wire brush or medium-grade sandpaper to remove loose rust fragments from the steel. Detach as many rust flakes as possible.
-
2
Put on safety goggles and acid-proof rubber gloves. Brush naval jelly generously over any lingering rust, including tiny rust spots, with a disposable paintbrush.
-
-
3
Keep the jelly substance on the steel window for 30 minutes. Naval jelly literally dissolves rust particles from metal.
-
4
Rinse the steel window with enough water to completely flush off the naval jelly.
-
5
Clean the steel window before priming and painting it. While wearing the goggles and gloves, scrub the entire steel window using medium-grade steel wool dampened with mineral spirits. Detach any lingering rust remnants and dirt from the window.
-
6
Rinse the steel window thoroughly with water. Wipe the steel dry with a towel.
-
7
Seal the entire steel window with anti-rust metal primer to impede future rust. Begin by masking off the surrounding glass with masking tape. Once the surrounding glass is protected, spray one coat of the primer over the steel window surface.
-
8
Let the primer dry on the window for the recommended time. Read the primer can's label for specific drying information.
-
9
Brush two thin coats of acrylic paint over the entire primed window with a non-disposable paintbrush. Let the first coat of paint fully dry before applying the second coat. Read the paint can's label for specific drying instructions.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Keep naval jelly away from kids and pets; it contains phosphoric acid.
Rust begins to develop on steel after just 24 hours of rust removal.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
