The first showers of the season always feel romantic. Then you step onto the balcony and start spotting small rust patches on the garden chair, the gate hinge slowly turning orange. With a lot of moisture in the air, constant splashes and humid conditions corrosion on exposed metal surfaces increases, quietly turning strong structures weak and shabby as time passes.
When left unattended or exposed to moisture, rust starts settling into the metal and begins to corrode causing the paint to flake, weakening joints and can even compromise the safety of gates and railings. A little preventive care before and during the monsoon can add years to your metal fixtures and keep them looking presentable.
Why Removing Existing Rust And Rust-Proofing Your Metal Surfaces Is Important
Metal surfaces such as your main gate, balcony railings and outdoor furniture are not just functional objects but they contribute to the aesthetic of your home too. Once rust begins to set in, it gets more difficult and expensive to fix the rust. Here are a few tips to maintain your metal surfaces and ensure they stay rust proof with rust proof spray paint:
-
Protect the metal from damage with moisture repellent top coats or best spray paint for metal.
-
Use primers before painting to seal cracks and ensure the water does not seep into the surface.
-
Keep the surfaces smooth to clean them easily and avoid the moisture getting trapped
How To Remove Existing Rust?
Removing existing rust from metal surfaces is tricky and the process needs to be carried out with proper precision. Here are the steps to remove existing rust from metal surfaces.
While this step is optional, it can be done if needed. Use a paint remover spray such as COSMOS MRO Paint Remover to soften and lift the damaged coating so a fresh protective layer of rust prevention spray can stick properly to the surface.
Step 1: Apply an anti rust coating like Cosmos MRO De-rust on the surface. This product works on releasing the rust from the surface. Use sandpaper to remove any flaky metal and wipe clean with a damp cloth to make it ready for paint. Ensure there is no residual de-rust on the product else the paint wont stick.
Step 2: Use a primer with anti rust properties helps in minimising moisture retention and helps in increasing the longevity of the metal like Cosmos Lac Metal Primer.
Step 3: Use rust preventive paints such as Cosmos Paints. Allow for dry time between each coat.
Step 4: Use proper top coats for a professional finish. Allow each coat to dry and choose a top coat that can stand harsh weather conditions such as Cosmos Paints Clear or Matte Lacquer.
Step 5: Regular touchups. Even a small rusted edge is enough for the rust to spread and metal to become corroded.
What Are A Few Things To Remember For Preventing Rust On Metals?
-
Spray your metal items with De-rust to prevent rust growth.
-
Try wiping down frequently soaked areas after heavy rain.
-
Avoid leaving your wet clothes or planters with metal surfaces for a prolonged period of time.
-
Inspect joints, screws and corners regularly in spaces which are prone to water or moisture.
-
Always remember to touch up small chips or scratches with rust and weather resistant spray paint immediately before rust begins to spread.
Conclusion
Monsoons will always test your metal fixtures. But with timely cleaning, a protective anti rust spray paint and a trusted home improvement spray paints from Cosmos Paints, you can keep rust firmly under control. The effort you put in before the first real downpour is the effort that pays off all season long.