Paint Outdoor Metal Furniture: Easy DIY
Yes! You can paint your outdoor metal furniture. Everything you need to know about painting metal outdoor furniture the right way!
I’m a paint expert so you are in the right place! You will save a FORTUNE updating your old outdoor furniture by painting it. It’s an EASY DIY that you can tackle in ONE day.
With the right prep and paint, the finish will be smooth and weather resistant plus easier to clean.
So whether you thrifted metal outdoor furniture or have some faded and worn metal furniture, this tutorial is for you!
I’ll teach the right way to paint your furniture by showing you how I updated my 20 year old metal outdoor chairs (from Target) and made them look BRAND NEW!
Plus I found by changing the color from black to white they are no longer HOT. I can comfortably rest my arms on the hottest days.
If you are wondering, you can use this tutorial to paint ANY metal furniture. Want to know how-to paint outdoor wicker, read this instead.
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How-to Paint Metal Outdoor Furniture
First I need to mention that each one of my outdoor metal chairs required 3 cans of spray paint.
I HIGHLY recommend you buy spray paint with the typical nozzle and use a comfort grip attachment.
Not only will this help you apply more even coverage due to the constant pressure, but will make sure you don’t hurt your finger!
project Supplies
- Heavy Duty Scrub Brush
- Plastic Bucket
- Plastic Bristle Brush
- Large Waterproof Tarp
- Comfort Grip Attachment
- Spray Paint Semi-Gloss Sheen (metal furniture)
- Rusty Metal Primer (optional)
Note: I wasn’t able to link the exact spray paint I used on Amazon, BUT you can still buy online at Home Depot or Lowe’s who offers a 15% bulk quantity discount 🙂
BTW I’m a fan of wearing gloves during paint projects to protect my skin and manicured nails from overspray. It’s up to you!
Step 1: Look for rust or flaking paint
It’s important to determine if any areas of paint are failing or if there is rust. If you find these areas, scrub with a hard PLASTIC brush to remove.
After you finish, if you feel you need to sand those areas smooth with a 220 grit sanding block. I did not because the areas didn’t concern me.
Step 2: Thoroughly Clean the Furniture
Most outdoor furniture is going to be covered in dirt and pollen. My metal chairs are 20 years old, so the original paint had dulled to a matte finish making it worse!
Fill a bucket with warm water and a few drops of Dawn dish detergent. Using a heavy duty scrub brush, scrub the furniture clean.
You can use a battery operated scrub brush too. I wish I would have remembered I had one!
Hose off ALL soap and use high pressure to expose additional failing areas of paint. If you do, address them!
Step 3: dry off furniture
Use a microfiber rag to push off the water and then let dry for about an hour.
MAKE SURE THEY ARE COMPLETELY DRY before painting! Once dry, place them on a waterproof tarp.
Weight down the corners of the tarp, so they don’t blow up and hit the paint finish before it is dry.
Step 4: Apply spray paint
Make sure to apply the spray paint in a well ventilated area. Outside is best.
Find a day you KNOW it is not going to rain. Ideally don’t paint when it’s hot and humid.
Always try to apply spray paint in the shade. You can use a pop-up tent to provide sun protection. This will ensure the paint doesn’t dry to fast, which can create recoat issues.
Watch this video on Porch Daydreamer’s Instagram (please follow me!) for tips on the best way to apply spray paint and read below:
- Use a comfort grip attachment so you use even pressure.
- Start spraying an inch BEFORE the area to make sure the paint is coming out smoothly.
- So you don’t over apply, stay 8 to 10 inches from the surface.
- Use long sweeping motions and keep moving as you spray. NEVER STOP in one spot.
- It’s better to apply 2 to 3 thin coats than to force paint to fully cover the surface.
- CLOSELY follow the manufacturer’s recoat time between coats.
Apply 2 to 3 coats of spray paint. Most spray painted areas can be handled in about 30 minutes.
Make sure to bend down and lift up your furniture to ensure you have covered the entire surface! Don’t forget the FEET get them fully covered too.
OK, I’m HUMAN and even though I’ve applied spray paint on countless projects I still make mistakes.
Applying 12 cans of spray paint gets tiring. On the arm of this chair I got too close and over applied the paint.
This is what “sagging” looks like. Literally the spray paint runs in large lines. I have to say the spray paint I chose was VERY forgiving and when this area dried it really wasn’t visible.
If this happens to you, make sure to let it dry thoroughly. Then read the instructions in the FAQs below for dealing this drips and sagging paint.
Step 5: dry the final coat of paint
Once you feel satisfied you have full even coverage (2 to 3 coats), then it’s time to dry.
You need to dry your furniture for AT LEAST 24 hours, before using. Ideally 48 hours.
If you can, dry in a protected area like a garage or indoors. If you have to dry outdoors try to keep the furniture in the shade or under a pop-up tent.
Once fully cured, you can place and use your furniture outside! Keep that TARP for future spray paint projects.
Just shake it out and fold it up with the paint to the inside for storing.
FAQs Painting Outdoor Metal Furniture
Answering the most common questions about painting outdoor metal furniture.
What type of paint should I use for outdoor metal furniture?
Use spray paint specifically formulated for metal surfaces and suitable for outdoor use. Brands often label these paints as “outdoor,” “metal,” or “rust-resistant.”
My favorite outdoor metal spray is Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Coverage Spray Paint.
How much does it cost to paint metal outdoor furniture?
The spray paint I recommend is around $7 to $8 dollars per can. Each one of my metal chairs took 3 cans. I bought in bulk and saved 15%!
Depending on the size of your furniture and estimating 2 coats, most pieces of outdoor furniture will cost under $25 to paint.
Tables and larger pieces will be more expensive, but so was the furniture 🙂
Can I use any color of spray paint?
Yes! Spray paints come in a wide range of colors. Choose a color that complements your outdoor decor and suits your personal style.
Make sure to use paints labeled for outdoor and metal use.
Is it better to spray paint or brush on the paint?
Spray painting provides a smoother and more even finish, especially for intricate metal outdoor furniture. It also dries faster and is easier to apply without brush marks.
Brushing on paint is an option. However, it will take much longer to apply. The dry time between coats is much longer and will likely leave brush marks.
What sheen of spray paint should I use for outdoor metal furniture?
Spray paints come in a wide variety of sheens (how shiny they are). Satin and Gloss sheens are options, but my preference is semi-gloss, which isn’t too shiny but will resist dirt and is easy to clean.
Avoid flat or matte paint finishes for outdoor metal furniture. Flat and matte finishes have more texture when they dry. They will hold onto to dirt and pollen plus are harder to clean.
How do I prepare metal outdoor furniture before painting?
Clean the furniture thoroughly with soapy water to remove dirt, grease, and rust. I recommend Dawn liquid dish soap, because it’s a degreaser.
Sand or brush smooth any flaking paint or rust spots, which I will talk about next.
Can I paint over rust?
It’s important to remove as much rust as possible before painting. You NEVER want to paint over a failing area without prepping it first.
Use a plastic bristle brush (don’t use metal) to remove loose rust. then apply a rust-inhibiting primer before painting to prevent further rusting.
Do I need to use a primer before painting?
You can use a primer designed for metal surfaces, BUT I found the spray paint was no more expensive than primer.
You can use the same color of spray paint and assume the first coat of paint is acting as a primer.
How many coats of paint should I apply?
Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. Typically, 2-3 coats are enough for even coverage and durability. I applied 2.
Most spray paints have strict reapplication time frames so pay attention! BEFORE applying the 2nd or 3rd coat let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The spray paint I used on my metal outdoor furniture required I apply the next coat within 30 minutes!
What should I do if I notice drips or uneven coverage?
First, to avoid drips or sagging keep the spray can at least 8-10 inches from the surface while painting.
If you notice drips or paint sag, allow the paint to dry completely, then sand the area lightly and repaint.
For uneven coverage, apply additional thin coats until you achieve a smooth, even finish.
How long does the paint take to dry?
Dry times can vary based on how much humidity is in the air and how hot or cold the temperature is.
Most spray paints dry to the touch in 1 hour. However, it’s best to allow a full 24 to 48 hours for the paint to fully cure before using your outdoor furniture.
Should I use a clear sealer over the paint?
While not necessary, a clear sealer can provide extra protection against weather and wear, prolonging the life of your paint job.
Choose a sealer that is compatible with your spray paint and suitable for outdoor use.
What safety precautions should I take while spray painting?
Always work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to avoid inhaling fumes.
Wear a mask, gloves, and eye protection to protect yourself from paint and fumes.
Can I use spray paint on other types of outdoor furniture?
Yes, spray paint can be used on various outdoor furniture materials, including wood, plastic, and wicker.
Ensure you use the appropriate primer and paint for the specific material.
How do I maintain the painted outdoor metal furniture?
To maintain the fresh look of your painted furniture, clean them regularly with mild soap and water.
Store them indoors or cover them during harsh weather conditions to protect the paint.
More Outdoor Furniture Paint Updates
Love this project? I have some more ideas for you:
- How-to Spray Paint Outdoor Resin Wicker Furniture
- Create a Tan Wicker “Target” Finish with Paint
- Easy Driftwood Paint Finish for Outdoor Furniture
I hope this inspired you paint furniture at your house!