How to Paint Wrought Iron

Painting wrought iron can help protect it from rust and corrosion, while also allowing you to update its look. Properly painting wrought iron requires attention to surface preparation, primer selection, application of paint, and ongoing maintenance. With some time and effort, you can give your wrought iron a fresh new look.

Gather Your Supplies

Before starting any painting project, it’s important to gather the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need to paint wrought iron:

Paint scrappers or wire brushes: To remove any loose or flaking paint and rust.
Sandpaper: Both coarse and fine grit sandpaper, to smooth the surface.
Paint remover (optional): For removing old paint, especially if there are multiple layers.
Cleaning solutions: Such as soap and water, denatured alcohol, or TSP substitute to clean and degrease the metal.
Rags, paintbrushes, and rollers: For applying primer and paint. Disposable brushes and mini rollers work well.
Drop cloths: To protect surrounding surfaces from drips and spills.
Primer: A rust-inhibiting primer made for metal.
Exterior paint: Such as a satin, semi-gloss, or gloss oil-based enamel, or high quality latex paint.
Paint tray: For holding primer and paint.
Mineral spirits: For cleaning up oil-based paints.
Painter’s tape: For masking off areas you don’t want painted.
Safety gear: Such as gloves, goggles, mask or respirator, and protective clothing.

Gather all these supplies before starting. This will allow the project to go smoothly from start to finish.

Prepare the Wrought Iron Surface

Proper surface preparation is crucial for achieving great results painting wrought iron. Here are the steps:

Remove Loose Paint and Rust

Use a paint scrapper, wire brush attachment on a power drill, or sandpaper to remove all loose, flaking or peeling paint. Remove as much rust as possible. Getting down to the bare metal isn’t essential, but do remove all areas of paint and rust that are not firmly adhered.

Clean the Surface

Wash the wrought iron thoroughly after scraping and sanding to remove dust, dirt and debris. Use soap and water, or TSP substitute. For greasy surfaces, clean with denatured alcohol. Rinse well and let dry fully.

Sand Away Rough Areas

Use coarse grit sandpaper (80-100 grit) to smooth any remaining rough spots, nicks, or uneven textures. Always sand in the direction of the grain.

Remove Any New Rust

Check for areas of new flash rust and remove with sandpaper. Apply painter’s tape to mask off any nearby surfaces you don’t want painted.

Apply Primer

Use a high quality rust-inhibiting metal primer made specifically for iron and steel. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and dry time. Two coats are recommended for best protection.

Applying primer right after cleaning provides extra protection by sealing the surface. Once primed, the project can be paused for several days if needed.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Paint

When selecting paint for wrought iron, durability is key. The paint will need to withstand sun exposure, moisture, and changing temperatures. Here are some good options:

Oil-based enamel paints: Offer excellent adhesion and durability on metal surfaces. Oil-based paints create a hard, protective finish but require mineral spirits for brush cleaning.
High quality latex paints: Provide good durability and are easier to apply than oils. Look for exterior latex paints specifically made for metal.
Heat-resistant paints: Specialty paints designed for surfaces subjected to high temperatures, like barbeque grills or fire pits.
Direct-to-metal (DTM) paints: All in one primer and finish coats made specifically for painting metal.

Satin, semi-gloss, or gloss sheens are best for providing protection outdoors. Darker colors may absorb more heat from sunlight. Pastel shades show wear sooner than darker hues.

Buy the highest quality paint you can afford so your paint job lasts longer. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on the paint can or brochure for any special application instructions.

Once you’ve prepped the surface and have your paint selected, you’re ready to apply it. Here’s how to paint wrought iron like a pro:

1. Lightly Sand the Primer

Use fine grit sandpaper (220 grit or higher) and gently smooth over the primed surface. This helps the paint adhere better. Brush away any dust.

2. Paint a Small Test Section

It’s a good idea to paint a small back section first. Allow the paint to fully dry and cure. Inspect it after a few days before moving forward with the full project. This helps identify any potential adhesion or compatibility problems early on.

3. Apply the First Coat

Use a high quality brush, like a china bristle. Apply paint in smooth, even strokes and get paint into all crevices. Work in small sections if using a roller. Allow paint to fully dry before recoating.

4. Apply Second Coat

For optimal protection, two finish coats are recommended. Gently sand again before applying the final coat. This coat will give complete and even coverage.

5. Allow Full Curing

Leave paint to cure for several days before subjecting it to use or harsh weather conditions. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for full curing times.

Proper surface prep and application helps the paint adhere tightly. The finish coat seals and protects the primer. Taking the time to do it right leads to long-lasting, professional results.

Painting Techniques for Wrought Iron

Beyond basic brushwork, there are specialty painting techniques that create different decorative finishes on wrought iron:

Dry Brushing

Involves applying paint with a dry brush in thin layers. Gives added dimension and an aged, weathered look. Requires very little paint.

Ragging

Uses a rag dipped in glaze or paint to apply color. Gives a mottled, irregular finish. Cheesecloth works great for a more delicate pattern.

Sponging

Applies paint in a random, mottled pattern using a natural sponge. Helps tone down shiny surfaces.

Stippling

Uses a brush to apply specks of paint for texture. Looks similar to sponging but creates smaller dots.

Color Washing

Watery paint applied in layers creates a faded, stained effect as it runs over textured areas.

Antiquing

A dark colored wash (black or burnt umber work well) is applied over a base coat, then wiped away to darken recesses.

These techniques can be used individually or combined to create more complex finishes. Consider accenting decorative elements this way. Always do test samples first.

How to Paint Rusty Wrought Iron

Wrought iron is susceptible to corrosion and rust. Here are some tips for dealing with rust during the painting process:

Spot clean rusty areas with naval jelly or phosphoric acid to convert rust into an inert layer.
Use a Rust Converter as a primer alternative. It converts rust into a black primer coat so no rubbing or sanding is needed.
For lightly rusted areas, apply two coats of Rust Inhibiting Primer before finishing with paint.
Heavily rusted wrought iron may need more extensive repair before painting is possible.
Touch up paint frequently on rust-prone iron to prevent recurring rust from spreading under paint.

Rust is challenging to address when painting wrought iron. Preventing moisture exposure helps slow rust formation after painting. Addressing rust properly during prep allows the new paint to adhere.

Maintaining Painted Wrought Iron

Regular maintenance helps preserve your freshly painted wrought iron. Here are some tips:

Keep it clean by washing periodically with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Reapply paint every 2-3 years to renew protection as the finish deteriorates.
Watch for bubbling or cracking paint, which signals rust may be present underneath. Address immediately to prevent spreading.
Sand lightly and spot paint any nicks, scratches or damaged areas to prevent rust development.
Oil-based paints may fade with sun exposure. Refresh faded finishes with a fresh coat.
Inspect wrought iron regularly for signs of rust or damage developing. Address maintenance needs promptly for long-lasting results.

With routine care and repainting when needed, a freshly painted wrought iron piece can maintain its beautiful, renewed look for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for paint to dry on wrought iron?

Oil-based paints take 24-48 hours to fully dry and cure. Latex paints dry faster, usually within 2-4 hours. Colder weather and high humidity lengthen paint’s drying time.

What kind of paint is best for outdoor wrought iron?

High quality exterior paints that offer good adhesion, UV resistance, and weather protection work best. Oil-based enamel, latex, acrylic, or DTM paints formulated for metal are good choices.

Should wrought iron be primed before painting?

Yes, priming provides important corrosion resistance. A metal primer will help new paint properly adhere to iron or steel surfaces.

How do I get rust off wrought iron before painting?

Removing loose rust with sandpaper, wire brushing, or rust removal chemicals is best. For heavy rust, acid-based removers help etch the surface for paint adhesion.

What causes paint to peel off wrought iron?

Paint peels due to poor surface preparation or inadequate primer. Using cheap, low-quality paint that can’t withstand outdoor exposure also causes peeling. Moisture getting under paint lifts edges.

Can I use spray paint on wrought iron?

Yes, quality spray paints work well on iron if applied in thin, even coats with proper priming. But for large projects, brush painting gives a more durable finish and uniform coverage.

How do I repaint old wrought iron furniture?

Remove loose paint and rust, sand, clean, then prime before painting. Oil-based bonding primers adhere well to old paint. Avoid excessive paint build up and follow recoat times.

Can I paint over rust?

Light surface rust can be primed and painted. But deep rust should be removed by sanding, wire brushing, or etching before painting to ensure proper adhesion.

What kind of brushes should be used to paint wrought iron?

Firm, high quality natural or synthetic bristle brushes work best. Avoid foam brushes which don’t provide enough texture for outdoor surfaces. Disposable brush types are good for oil-based paints.

Conclusion

Painting wrought iron requires careful preparation, priming, paint selection, and application for professional, long-lasting results. Taking shortcuts leads to peeling, chipping paint down the road. Investing ample time up front to address rust and properly prep surfaces prevents having to redo work later.

Use high quality exterior paints and primers designed specifically for painting metal. Apply paint properly in even layers, following manufacturer’s guidelines for dry times between coats. Maintain the freshly painted iron with regular cleaning and touch ups when needed.

With this detailed guide, you can feel confident to tackle painting projects on wrought iron patio sets, railings, furniture, decorative ironwork, and more around your home. Do the job right and the renewed paint finish will maintain its beautiful luster for years to come!

Sources

https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/paint/how-to-paint-wrought-iron/
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/how-to-paint-wrought-iron
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/how-to-prepare-wrought-iron-for-painting/9ba683603be9fa5395fab908d7b5e929
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-paint-wrought-iron/
https://www.trescoopaint.com/blog/post/how-to-paint-wrought-iron-railings-furniture