How do I keep a heat grate from rusting??

Linda K
by Linda K

I have a heat grate that is right next to my shower. I have painted it with rustoleum twice and it still has rust spots on it. Should I repaint it and the seal it with polyurethane or is there something else I should use? Thanks


  11 answers
  • Dee Dee on Sep 21, 2020

    I would call Rustoleum and ask if you should use a sealer. Make sure you get all the rust off before you repaint it.

  • Cheryl A Cheryl A on Sep 21, 2020

    Linda

    I have some info that can help with your rusting grate.


    https://www.krylon.com/how-to/faqs/product/can-i-spray-paint-over-rust.jsp



  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Sep 21, 2020

    It sounds like you might not have gotten all of the rust off it originally. Make sure you remove it all with a wire brush and treat it thoroughly before priming and painting with a rust inhibitor. It wouldn't hurt to use a spray sealer afterwards for extra prevention.

  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Sep 21, 2020

    Hi Linda I would look into something more serious than even rustoleum. Rust is a tough thing to beat if you're not willing to constantly repainting it. I'm wondering if you could replace the grate with a new one that won't rust at all?

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Sep 21, 2020

    Have you considered a wood heat grate?

  • Mogie Mogie on Sep 21, 2020

    It is key that you use a wire brush to get as much rust off as possible. The paint needs a good surface to adhere to and being rust free is important.

  • Cindy Cindy on Sep 21, 2020

    Hi Linda. Begin by removing all the rust. Then wipe it down to make a clean surface. Once all rust is removed, apply a good primer (I recommend Kilz). And give it at least two coats but preferably three. It's important to let each coat dry completely before adding the next coat. These coats of Kilz will prevent any rust from coming through. After that you can paint it with color of your choice. Good luck Linda. I wish you well.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Sep 22, 2020

    Hello Linda,

    Give it a few coats of paint and don't use the shower until it is thoroughly dry!

    Open window when showering if possible to help disperse the damp or fit an electric extractor fan!

  • Maura White Maura White on Sep 22, 2020

    I agree to sand off rust and use a good primer!

  • Rymea Rymea on Sep 26, 2020

    I think I've seen plastic ones.

  • Lindsay Aratari Lindsay Aratari on Oct 31, 2020

    Could you replace it with something better for around a shower such as plastic