The first thing we must stress here is that our metal patio furniture will not rust. Our range is made from high-grade cast aluminium that we powder coat to give it a durable weatherproof finish.
Here in the UK, in our frequently wet climate, you will find that certain other types of metal furniture are prone to rusting if not protected.
While the powder-coated cast aluminium we use is an excellent rust-resistant option and is perfectly suited to the UK climate, other metals can be a little higher maintenance and susceptible to corrosion.
For example, steel is a popular material in many modern designs but it is made from iron, which is highly reactive with moisture and oxygen, so it can rust (what is known as iron oxide) over time when exposed to the elements.
If it is not properly treated or coated, then it is particularly prone, however, much of the steel furniture on sale in the UK is zinc coated (galvanised) or made from stainless steel, which is more resistant to corrosion, but these treatments can wear off over time.
Wrought iron on the other hand is often used for classic or vintage-style garden furniture and, whilst it is extremely strong and durable, it is highly prone to rust when exposed to the elements.
Much of the high-end wrought iron furniture is coated with a painted finish, but any chips or damage to the coating can expose the raw metal underneath, allowing rust to quickly form.
Cast iron furniture too is typically coated with a painted finish or enamel to protect it, but wear and tear can result in rust spots forming (even through the paintwork) if not properly maintained.
If you have our range, then again you could chip or scratch the painted finish. It is tough stuff but it can happen and is the reason we have touch-up paint kits. The big advantage it has over iron and steel is that it will not rust when exposed.
Instead it will form a protective layer of aluminium oxide (white and chalky). This layer acts as a barrier, preventing further oxidation and protecting the underlying metal from corrosion in a process known as passivation.
How to remove rust from metal garden furniture sets
If you have steel and iron furniture sets and the dreaded R-word rears its ugly head, then start by assessing the damage.
Regularly check each piece of furniture and look for areas where rust has formed, focusing on joints, seams, and areas where the paint or coating has worn away (feet, table edges, backrests and the arms of chairs are common spots).
If you do find rust, then no matter how small, tackle it immediately. Our basic process for treating any rust spots on garden furniture is as follows:
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Preparation
Remove any cushions or accessories to prevent them from getting damaged during the rust removal process. Make sure you have a safe space to work that is well-ventilated. Put down plastic sheets to protect the floor or patio surface if working outside. -
Tools
You will need a wire brush or steel wool, sandpaper (medium to fine grit), a commercial rust remover or white vinegar, clean cloths, rust-resistant metal primer, metal paint with a rust-resistant finish, and protective gloves and goggles for your safety. -
Remove
To remove the rust, take the wire brush or steel wool and scrub away the loose, flaky bits. Sandpaper can help smooth out any tougher spots but be gentle to avoid damaging any surrounding non-rusted areas. You must remove as much rust as possible. Finally, smooth out the area with fine sandpaper such as a 220 grit. -
Apply
If the rust is deep or stubborn, then we would recommend you also apply a rust remover such as Hammerite or Zep or soak the area in white vinegar which acts as a natural rust remover. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or if using white vinegar just let it sit for a while before scrubbing again. Most of the commercial rust removers contain chemicals that break down the rust and they will often need to be rinsed off after use. -
Clean
Wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove any rust particles and cleaning residue, and then leave the surface to dry completely before you move on to the next step. -
Repair
After the rust is removed and the area is dry, we like to always apply a rust-inhibiting primer that is specifically designed for metal outdoor surfaces. Some paints will claim to do both but we think this step is essential as it will prevent rust from forming again. -
Paint
Once primed and dry, use high-quality, outdoor metal paint to match the finish or refinish and cover the primer. Choose a paint that’s designed for metal and offers full weather resistance, or even better, opt for rust-resistant paint. -
Finish
Once the paint has dried, add a protective sealant or a top coat for additional protection against moisture and the elements. This will help prevent rust from forming in the future and keep the paint weatherproof for longer.
How to prevent rust on metal outdoor furniture
Of course, moisture is the main cause of rust on garden furniture, so keep it dry and you’ll keep it safe. You want to prevent water from sitting on the surface of your metal furniture for too long, so wipe it down regularly, especially after rain, and ensure it dries completely before you cover or store it.
Invest in some high-quality outdoor furniture covers that are waterproof and breathable. They will shield your metal furniture from rain, snow, and frost while allowing the air to circulate and preventing condensation from building up underneath.
As we advise with our range, applying a thin coat of car wax, linseed oil, or a silicone spray over your metal furniture will help create a protective barrier against moisture. Moisture will bead up and run off but it will need to be reapplied regularly, especially after cleaning or heavy rain.
If your metal furniture is not already powder-coated like the Lazy Susan range, then you should consider repainting it with weather-resistant, rust-proof paint or having it professionally powder-coated. Powder coating provides a durable finish that is highly resistant to moisture and chipping.
If possible, store your metal garden furniture indoors (in a garage or shed) during the winter months when the risk of rust is highest. If you don’t have space, then move the furniture to a sheltered spot and cover it.
Our garden tables and chairs come with screw-in protective feet that prevent the metal from making direct contact with the ground thus eliminating chips, etc. If your furniture does not, then you need to elevate it slightly off the ground using rubber feet or risers. This is a common area for rust to develop but they will prevent the metal from sitting directly in pools of water after rain, etc.
As with any type of outdoor furniture, vigilance is what will keep it looking like new for longer, no matter what material is it made from. Inspect it regularly for any signs of rust, chips, or cracks in the protective finish. Catching rust early and addressing it promptly will prevent bigger problems from taking hold.
The key is to know what type of metal you have and how it is finished/protected. Keep it dry, use protective covers, apply protective coatings like wax or repaint if need be, and store it indoors during harsh weather.
By taking these simple steps, you’ll ensure that your metal garden furniture remains in good condition for many years, even in the UK’s always wet winters and summers!
If you have our metal patio furniture, then we would love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.
