How to Refresh Your Home’s Outdoor Seating with Paint
Posted on March 25, 2019
Outdoor features like fences, gates, railings, and garage doors endure constant exposure to the elements, often leaving them looking dull and weathered. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform these areas, giving your home’s exterior a polished and cohesive appearance. Painting isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s also a practical way to protect surfaces from further wear and tear. Let’s explore how to breathe new life into your outdoor spaces with paint, including a closer look at rejuvenating metal patio furniture.
If your fence has seen better days or your garage door is showing signs of age, repainting these elements is an efficient and cost-effective way to refresh your home’s exterior. A well-maintained fence, for example, adds curb appeal while protecting the wood or metal beneath. Similarly, repainting gates and railings enhances the overall look of your entryways, tying your home’s design together.
Don’t stop there—your outdoor furniture deserves some attention, too. Metal patio furniture often gets overlooked, but with a little effort, you can give these pieces a whole new lease on life. Here’s how you can transform your metal patio chairs in just five easy steps.
Step 1: Prepare Your Surface
Preparation is everything when it comes to painting. Start by inspecting your metal chairs for peeling or cracked paint. These imperfections will prevent the new paint from adhering properly. Use a wire brush to scrape away loose paint and any rust that’s developed. If the rust is extensive, bring out a random orbital sander. Begin with 60-grit sandpaper to tackle the rough spots, then switch to 120-grit for a smoother finish. Always wear protective gloves and eyewear during this process. Taking the time to properly prepare your chair ensures a smooth and durable finish. Skipping this step could result in a sloppy paint job that won’t last through Colorado’s varied weather conditions.
Step 2: Clean Thoroughly
After sanding, you’ll need to clean up the mess. Use water and a scrubber to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the surface of the chair. This step is crucial; painting over dirt will compromise the finish and shorten the lifespan of your work. Allow the chair to dry completely before moving on to painting. Air drying is best, but patience is key—rushing this step can lead to uneven paint application.
Step 3: Choose the Right Paint
For outdoor furniture, you need paint designed to withstand the elements. Rust-Oleum or similar brands are excellent choices because they’re formulated to adhere to metal and include built-in primer. These paints provide long-lasting coverage that resists rust, chipping, and fading.
Whether you choose to spray paint or use a brush is up to you. Spray painting is quicker and often gives a more even finish, but both methods can achieve great results if done carefully. Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, and protect surrounding surfaces with a drop cloth.
Step 4: Apply with Care
When painting, move the chair around to ensure you’ve covered every angle, including the undersides and hard-to-see areas. Over-spraying is a common mistake, so keep your paint strokes controlled and avoid the edges of the drop cloth to prevent accidental messes.
Once the first coat is applied, let it dry completely before deciding if a second coat is necessary. Multiple thin layers generally provide better coverage and durability than a single thick coat.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
After about 24 hours of drying time, your chair is ready for its final debut. Add a vibrant cushion or throw to complement your new color scheme. With a refreshed look, your patio furniture will feel like a brand-new addition to your outdoor space. Pour yourself a cocktail, and enjoy the results of your hard work!
Call to Action: Schedule Your Free Estimate Today!
Updating your home’s outdoor features is an easy way to boost curb appeal and create inviting spaces for your family and guests. Whether you’re looking to repaint fences, garage doors, or even take on a furniture makeover, CertaPro Painters of Colorado Springs is here to help. Don’t let the weathered look of your outdoor surfaces bring down your home’s charm. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate and let us bring your vision to life. From fences to patios, we’ll make your outdoor areas shine again!