How to Prime Rusty Metal the Right Way

April 14, 2025

Breathe New Life Into Rusty Metal: A Simple Guide to Perfect Priming

So, you’ve stumbled upon a dusty, rusty metal garden gate at the back of the shed. Or maybe your outdoor table has taken a few too many beatings from the rain, looking a bit worse for wear. Don’t toss it! With a handful of the right tools, a splash of elbow grease, and the right primer, you can bring that old metal back to its beautiful, functional self.

I’ve helped plenty of customers tackle rusted surfaces over the years, and trust me—there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing something worn-out looking pristine again. Let’s go through the right way to prime rusty metal, step-by-step.

Why You Can’t Just “Paint Over It”

It’s tempting, I know. Whack on a fresh coat of paint and call it a day. But here’s the catch: rust is like metal cancer. If it’s not solved properly, it keeps spreading under your fresh paint job, popping out again in time, flaking and bubbling. This isn’t about perfectionism—it’s about making the paint stick and last.

Step 1: Gear Up for Safety and Comfort

Before you grab anything else, grab some gloves, safety glasses, and maybe a mask too—especially if the rust is flaking and getting airborne. I’ve made the mistake of skipping this bit once out of laziness. Never again. Rust particles aren’t just messy—they’re harsh on the lungs.

Step 2: Say Goodbye to Loose Rust

Grab a wire brush, scraper, or sanding block and get scrubbing. You’re not aiming for shiny silver metal, but you do want to remove any loose, flaky finishes. Some metal surfaces may need a grinder, but most of the time a bit of good ol’ manual muscle does the trick. This step is non-negotiable. The smoother the surface, the longer your paint will cling—and look great doing it.

Step 3: Clean It Like You Mean It

Once the loose rust is off, wash the surface. Warm soapy water usually does it. Let it dry completely. If it’s oily or grease-prone (think BBQs or garden tools), you'll want a degreaser first. Any leftover grime can block adhesion or cause your primer to slip around instead of bonding properly.

Step 4: The Magic is in the Metal Primer

This is where the star of the show steps in: Haymes RustLock Metal Primer.

This water-based primer is perfect for rust-affected metal. What I love most? It’s ready to handle light surface rust without being fussy. After a good clean-up, you can hop straight into priming. It works brilliantly on fences, gates, and even old heritage cast iron furniture (yes, I still get questions about that set reclined in someone’s nan’s backyard!)

Brush, roller or sprayer? Honestly, use whatever you’re most comfortable with. Larger even surfaces like garage doors work well with rollers, but for intricate detail, grab a brush. Just make sure your primer layer is even and covers every edge and crevice where rust might still linger.

When is it Ready for Paint?

Let your primer dry properly. Don’t tug at it to check. Follow the recommended drying time on the tin, generally a few hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it no longer feels tacky or looks patchy.

Once the primer is set, take a moment to admire it. That once flaky, forgotten garden tool now looks like it’s got a second chance. Feels good, doesn’t it?

Choosing the Perfect Topcoat

Next up is picking the topcoat that matches your project and your vision. Want something to face unpredictable weather swings? Stick with exterior-rated enamel paints. If you’re matching with an interior-paint colour and want it tough enough to tough it outdoors, have a chat with us in-store—there’s always a solution.

Quick Tips to Keep in Mind

Don't prime in the rain or extreme heat.
Protect nearby surfaces from primer splatter (lesson learnt after my garden shed got a makeover I didn’t plan).
Store leftover primer properly—it’s great for those last touch-ups and future projects.

One More Thing About Rust... It Never Sleeps

Even once you’ve done it right, check in every few years. Spot touch-ups are simple when caught early. Metal is resilient, but not magic. Treat it well and it stays with you for the long haul.

If you're planning a metal makeover and not sure where to start, drop by Strathalbyn H Hardware’s Paint Shop. We're stocked with the best primers, paints, brushes, and more—not to mention friendly support exactly when you need it. Just ask for Candeece at the counter (me!), and I’ll walk you through it all.

Cheers to saving money, learning something new, and bringing your metal bits and pieces back from the rust zone.

Happy painting!

Candeece