Outdoor metal furniture can quickly become worn, faded or rusted when exposed to the elements. With the right preparation and coating system, you can restore old pieces and protect them with a durable, long lasting finish.
This guide follows the exact process shown in the White Knight Rust Guard chair project: sand, clean, treat rust, prime, then apply two coats of enamel for a refreshed result.
What you’ll need
- Sandpaper or wire brush
- Clean cloth or brush
- Drop sheet or masking materials
- White Knight Rust Guard Rust Converter
- White Knight Rust Guard All Purpose Primer
- White Knight Rust Guard Epoxy Enamel Spray Paint
- Safety gear, including gloves, mask and eye protection
Step 1: Sand back rust and loose paint
Start by sanding the metal furniture to remove as much rust, flaking paint and loose material as possible. Focus on heavily affected areas such as joints, edges and any sections exposed to moisture.
Proper surface preparation will improve adhesion and help deliver a smoother, more even finish.
Step 2: Clean the surface thoroughly
After sanding, give the furniture a thorough clean to remove dust, dirt and grime.
Any residue left on the surface can interfere with the coating system, so ensure the surface is clean and completely dry before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Treat remaining rust
Apply White Knight Rust Guard Rust Converter to any remaining rusty patches. This product chemically converts rust into a stable surface, helping to stop further corrosion and prepare the area for painting.
Allow it to dry fully as per the label instructions before priming.
Step 4: Apply primer
Once the surface is prepared, apply a coat of White Knight Rust Guard All Purpose Primer.
This primer creates a solid base for your topcoat and improves adhesion to metal surfaces, helping the paint system perform more effectively over time.
Ensure even coverage across all surfaces, including detailed or hard to reach areas.
Step 5: Apply the first coat of epoxy enamel
After the primer has dried, apply your first coat of White Knight Rust Guard Epoxy Enamel Spray Paint.
Epoxy Enamel is designed to deliver a tough, durable finish for metal surfaces, with strong resistance to wear and outdoor conditions.
Use even, controlled spray strokes to achieve a smooth and consistent finish.
Step 6: Apply the second coat
Allow the first coat to dry, then apply a second coat of Epoxy Enamel.
This builds coverage, enhances durability and helps deliver a clean, refreshed look that lasts.
Final result
With the right preparation and a complete Rust Guard system, your old or rusted metal furniture can be restored to look clean, protected and like new again.
All products used in this project are available at your local Bunnings, making it easy to get everything you need to complete the job in one trip.