Turn Dated Second-Hand Patio Furniture Into A Dreamy Backyard Feature

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Some styles never seem to date. While there are certain outdoor patio furniture trends you need to let go of, cast iron retains a timeless charm. Unfortunately, it can also come with a high price tag. However, with a little patience you can turn up some dated examples at estate sales or flea markets, and all it takes to turn them into a dreamy backyard feature is some elbow grease and a few affordable supplies from the hardware store.

There are a number of benefits in choosing cast iron patio furniture, but before we go any further, a note of caution. Much of what is sold as cast furniture is actually aluminum. It is much less expensive, is lighter, and won't rust, but it's not authentic. If you're shopping in person, a sure test is to take a magnet. It will stick to cast iron, but not to aluminum. If you're buying online, be very careful.

Once you have your second-hand patio furniture, you'll need a few things to bring about the transformation. You'll want a wire brush to get into all the little nooks and crannies, a degreaser (Krud Kutter is a popular, non-toxic choice), some rubber or nitrile gloves, a face mask, spray primer, and paint. Rust-Oleum is a well-known brand. There are others, but check that the product is suitable for cast iron. You'll also want a drop cloth or some corrugated cardboard to protect the ground from overspray.

Thorough preparation is vital for a long-lasting finish. An initial clean with a pressure washer is a good idea if you have one, or simply a brush and a bucket with some warm water and a little dish soap. Then use the degreaser and a wire brush to remove dirt, grease, and flaking paint. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove any residue. If the surface is particularly bad, you could sand it back to bare metal, although that is a laborious and time-consuming process. The alternative for a really pristine finish would be professional sand blasting, but obviously that will add further expense.

Cast iron rusts easily, which is why a primer coat is important. Most leading products are specifically formulated to prevent rust getting started. Always wear gloves and a face mask. Follow the instructions carefully, particularly things like application temperature and drying time. A spray enamel is a good option for the top coats. Something like Rust-Oleum Engine Enamel Spray Paint provides excellent durability and is available in a range of colors. Once again, pay careful attention to the directions on the can.

Once the paint has cured, you can position and enjoy your dreamy cast iron patio furniture. You'll also want to check out the best way to clean your outdoor metal furniture to make sure it stays looking just as good for many years to come.