Over time, steel surfaces can take a beating. Rusty railings, an old steel door, or a piece of outdoor furniture, steel is prone to corrosion and wear. If you’re in Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, or Burnaby, you know how the rainy climate can accelerate rust and damage. Luckily, with the right tools and approach, you can restore your steel surfaces and give them a fresh, durable finish.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best method to repaint steel properly, ensuring a long-lasting result. We’ll use a steel post with a rusty base as an example. And if you’d rather leave it to the pros, we’re here to help at Microworks – your local handyman experts.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

A successful paint job starts with proper surface preparation. Any rust, peeling paint, or grime left behind will prevent the new paint from adhering correctly.

1. Use a Wire Brush with a Drill: For the best results, we recommend using wire wheels on a drill to remove rust and old paint. This method is better than using a grinder because:
   • It reaches small and intricate areas more easily.
   • The drill spins at a lower speed, reducing the risk of injury or accidental damage.

   While you could also use a pressure washer, we generally advise against it. It tends to scatter paint flakes far and wide, making cleanup difficult and increasing the risk of carrying paint particles into local streams and the ocean.

2. Sand the Surface: Once the larger flakes of rust and paint are removed, follow up by sanding the area with medium-grit sandpaper. This step smooths out the surface and provides a better texture for the paint to stick to.

Step 2: Clean the Surface

After removing the old paint and rust, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the surface:

1. Vacuum and Brush: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to pick up loose debris. This helps remove any remaining dust from the sanding process.
2. Leaf Blower (Low Setting): If you have a leaf blower, use it on the lowest setting to gently blow away any lingering dust. Avoid high settings, as they can spread paint particles into the environment.
3. Wipe with Mineral Spirits: Once the surface is free of debris, wipe it down with a rag soaked in mineral spirits. This removes grease, oils, and any other contaminants that could interfere with the paint’s adhesion. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Address Rusty Spots

If there are still areas with rust, you need to neutralize them before painting:

1. Apply a Rust Converter: This product chemically transforms rust into a paintable surface, preventing further corrosion. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
2. Clean Again with Mineral Spirits: Once the rust converter has fully cured, give the area another quick wipe with mineral spirits to ensure a clean base for painting.

Step 4: Apply Enamel-Based Paint

For steel surfaces, we recommend using a high-quality enamel-based paint for its durability and resistance to the elements.

1. Choose the Right Paint: We personally use Rust-A-Void, which is available at most Benjamin Moore stores. This enamel-based paint provides excellent protection and can be mixed in any color you desire.
2. Apply Thin, Even Coats: Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the paint in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before adding another. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for temperature and humidity.

Safety First: Always Use PPE

Working with steel and paint can expose you to fine dust, sharp edges, and chemical fumes. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including:

• Safety glasses or goggles
• Gloves (nitrile or chemical-resistant)
• A dust mask or respirator (especially when sanding or using rust converters)
• Long sleeves and pants to protect your skin

Need Help? Contact Microworks Today

Repainting steel can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive job, but the results are worth it when done right. If you’d rather skip the hassle and ensure a professional finish, Microworks is here to help. We proudly serve Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Burnaby, providing expert handyman services tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get a quote. Let us handle the tough work so you can enjoy a beautifully restored steel surface without lifting a finger.