How I Paint Rusty Surfaces?

The key to restoring rusty metal is to properly prep the rusty steel before you paint. A little work up front will yield long lasting results.

The first step is to clean off loose rust and flaking paint and then apply a rust-inhibitive primer. You don't need to get down to bare, shiny metal—just clean off the flakes and powdery surface rust that prevent paint from adhering. However, badly rusted metal areas need more prep work.

Start with a wire brush. Scrub partially rusted metal areas with a wire brush to remove flakes and powdery surface rust.

If the area is heavily rusted and pitted and wire brushing by hand is ineffective, use a drill with a wire wheel. Grind down heavily rusted metal spots faster with a wire wheel and a drill or angle grinder.

Once prepared, wash down all areas with Tikkurila roof cleaning agent, 1 Part Solution: 4 parts water (depending on degree of contamination) this can be applied by brush or rag. If possible power wash and rinse with clean water. 

Priming Options

Topcoat Options

If you require more advice on painting over rusted areas, give our technical team a call on 0131 334 4999 or send them a message here

Can't find what you were looking for?
Paint Calculator

How much paint do I need? 

Use this calculator to work out your requirements, if you have any question please get in touch with one of our team who will be more than willing to help you.

Wall 1
Tell us about your paint choices

Disclaimer: Tikkurila UK Paint Calculator is provided as a guide only. The coverage rates will vary depending on surface being coated and the particular product range being used. More information on these products can be found on the cans, on the technical data sheets on individual product pages, by using our live chat service or by calling our technical team on 0131 334 4999.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the estimate, however paint requirements may vary depending on the surface, type of paint, sheen level and colour chosen.