How can I remove rust and old paint from metal?

Question

I was given older heavy lawn table and chairs, the table has a criss cross metal top with lots of paint on it. I just love it, how do I remove it to restore.

Janet Pizaro · Answer

To start with the rush use can try white vinegar , or make a paste of baking soda with water. Both should be left on long enough to remove the rust. For the removal of the paint you can try a safe non-toxic stripper called Citristrip.

Jhmarie · Answer

Citristrip is a really good and environmentally safe stripper. Bar Keepers Friend is a good rust remover. The Citristrip might remove the rust too.

Karin From B'ham · Answer

A good metal wire brush helps get into crooks and crannies. Once you've removed the rust, you need to paint it as soon as it's dry or the rust will immediately start to come back. I highly recommend Rustoleum spray paints for outdoor and metal use. They come in a wide variety of colors and finishes (satin, flat, textured, hammered, etc.) and I love the trigger spray handle as opposed to the push button of the past. Rustoleum paints that contain primer will say so on the label.

Rosezzzzz · Answer

NUKE that baby out in the field with a trusty pressure washer. Go easy or you might dig out more than you intended.

Ljgordon · Answer

You don't have to remove all of the rust. Knock off all of the rust flakes then hit it a few times with a steel brush. Go to a paint store that carries auto paint supplies and get some Rust-Mort or whatever the store suggest. With Rust-Mort you put on 3 very, very, very light coats ( If you put on too heavy a coat it will become gooey & sticky and will remain so.) The R-M reacts with the rust and stops it, seals it and it will never rust again. Then paint with Rustoleum. I also found a similar rust product at NAPA Auto Parts.

David Dancer · Answer

Take it to a company that does hot-dip galvanizing. Before they galvanize a metal item, they dip it into acid to get to clean metal and then into the galvanizing dip. This means no more rust...ever and you can paint it a colour if you would like to.

Carol Roddy · Answer

Have you tried naval jelly?

Bam Milks · Answer

So very pleased with he advise Thank you for the help.

Val · Answer

David Dancer,  I'm sure your solution is a good one, however, I believe this is more of a DIY site.
I would much rather refinish myself, if for no other reason, to be able to have that feeling of accomplishment and to say 'I did that'!

Rita Niemi · Answer

A good power washer should remove all the paint, if you don't own one they can be rented.

How can I remove rust and old paint from metal?

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How can I remove rust and old paint from metal?

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