How to Update an Outdoor Metal Railing with Paint
Painting outdoor railings is an easy an affordable way to add curb appeal to your home. Learn how to update an outdoor metal railing with paint in this Ace Hardware video:
Before you start:
- Paint on a day over 70 F with no rain in the forecast for two days.
- Railings installed in or prior to 1978 should be tested for lead before painting.
1. Start by cleaning the railing with a degreaser to remove dirt and grime from the metal. Let it dry for about 15 minutes before moving on.
2. Wearing gloves, use a wire brush to remove chipped or loose paint. This will help the new paint to coat on evenly and correctly. Follow up with a sanding sponge to smooth out any uneven spots.
3. Place a drop cloth or tarp to protect your entrance plants and anywhere you don’t want to get debris or paint on. If your outdoor railings have rust, treat those spots with a rust stop spray. This will help prevent rust and corrosion from further deteriorating the metal. Let it dry 30 minutes before painting.
4. Use a paint made for exterior surfaces. Give it a good stir for about a minute before painting. Start at the bottom of the railing and work your way up, putting on enough paint to cover the spindle. Complete all sides of the railing before moving on to the next. This way you avoid drops from sitting too long, and the entire railing gets an even application. Then move to the top of the railing. Let dry for about two hours (more if it’s humid outside) before adding a second coat. Repeat these same steps for the second coat.
