A smattering of rust does not necessarily have to imply a death sentence for the surface you are working on whether it's a motor vehicle, metal siding or roofing or weathered outdoor furniture. If you treat the rust before the metal deteriorates, it is still possible to remove the oxidation, clean and strengthen the surface and, if desired, paint over it, creating an effect that is nearly as good as new. It is simply a matter of combining the correct knowledge with the right tools.
Instructions
- 1
Attach a wire wheel to a grinder or electric drill. In gradual circular motions, move the grinder or drill over the rusted areas. This will remove the rust, allowing you to move forward with further treatment, such as repainting the surface. If not, it will certainly loosen the vast majority of the corrosion ahead of the more industrial-strength treatment in the next step.
2Rent a sandblaster to carry out a thorough job of removing rust from the surface. This tool will, with compressed air at high pressure, blow away the oxidation. With the rust having already been loosened by the wire wheel treatment, sandblasting should be very effective. It will also remove any dirt, dust or debris on the surface, thoroughly cleaning it as well as removing rust.
3Use a cloth, warm water and detergent to clean the surface. Hand washing the area will ensure you get rid of any left over dust and will make sure the area is spotless before further treatment.
4Coat the metal with oil, grease, paint or other product designed to protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion.
