How To Keep Your Lawn Mower Deck From Rusting

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If you have a heavy-duty or gas-powered mower, it most likely has a metal deck made of steel or aluminum, unlike many electric or battery-operated models with composite polymer decks. Unfortunately, steel rusts, which is a problem since lawnmowers are often kept outside where the air is often moist. There's no need to be concerned, though, as keeping the deck from rusting isn't all that complicated. All you have to do is clean it regularly and apply a rust-preventive coating to the surface.

The deck, believe it or not, is probably the part of your lawn mower that you don't clean enough. It will rust if it's constantly coated with damp grass clippings, which trap moisture against the metal. Rust can weaken its structure and decrease mower performance. That's why it's important to clear those clippings as often as you can, especially if your grass wasn't fully dry when you mowed it.  Remember that you can get a variety of tools from places like Amazon to keep your lawn mower clean and grass-free. Once everything is clean, it's time to get yourself a rust-preventative like STA-BIL rust stopper or KBS rust seal. Regular cleaning removes the moisture-trapping debris, while the coating adds another layer of protection between the metal and the elements.

To make this part of the job easier, you might want to remove the mower blade first. This will give you a clear surface to work on. If you notice that there's some loose rust on the deck, you can use something like KBS Rust Blast along with a stiff wire brush to remove as much as you can. You could also use a wire wheel on a drill for this task. Once the mower deck is completely clean, you can apply rust preventative. There are a few ways you can do this. You can simply spray the product onto the deck surface, making sure you get even coverage. Alternatively, use a paintbrush or even a paint roller. Another option is to use a lint-free cloth and apply the rust preventative by just rubbing it on. 

While you're at it, you might want to wipe over the other metal sections of your mower at the same time. It's usually a good idea to let the product cure for at least seven days before you put the mower out on the lawn again. Also, whether you're applying it to the deck or another part of your lawnmower, avoid a single thick application; instead, do a few thin layers. This will ensure it dries in a timely manner. Follow the directions on whichever product you choose for this job. Finally, if significant rust has already made holes in the metal, it may be time to replace your lawn mower deck.