If you have painted wrought iron balusters and railings adorning your front staircase, you most likely enjoy the majestic appearance they give to the aesthetics of your property. If you wish to dress up the curb appeal your front porch area provides to those passing by, you may want to consider using a new color of paint on these iron pieces to make them appear vibrant. Here are some steps you can use when repainting wrought iron balusters and railings so they look favorable to all who view them.

Materials You Will Need

  • Paint scraper
  • Wire brush
  • Sandpaper in medium and fine-grit
  • Garden hose or pressure washer
  • Mild detergent
  • Sponge
  • Rust-inhibiting primer
  • Rust-inhibiting paint 
  • Sprayer, roller, or paintbrush

Remove All Old Paint For An Even Appearance

It will be necessary to remove all old paint from your balusters and railings before adding new color. This will ensure that the old paint does not fleck off, leaving you with an entryway with an uneven appearance. Use a paint scraper to remove the bulk of old color from the iron pieces. For hard to reach areas, use a wire brush to whisk old paint away. 

Sand The Iron To Remove Protrusions And Rust

After the majority of paint is removed, use pieces of sandpaper to rub away small flecks you were unable to tend to with a brush or scraper. Medium-grit sandpaper should suffice for this task. This will also remove any portions suffering from rust. Switch to a piece of fine-grit sandpaper and sand the iron until it is smooth when touched.

Clean The Balusters And Railings In Their Entirety

When your iron balusters and railings are free of paint and sanded down to a smooth finish, you will need to clean them to remove any sawdust remnants. Use a sponge to apply a mild detergent to the iron pieces and scrub them down to remove any debris left behind. Afterward, use a garden hose or pressure washer to remove the soap and allow the iron pieces to dry in their entirety.

Add New Coloring To Protect And Revitalize

After your balusters and railings are dry, it will be necessary to add a coating of rust-inhibiting primer to them. This will help protect the metal and will allow for a better adhesion of paint. This primer can be purchased in a spray can form and applied liberally over the surface of the iron. Allow to dry completely before adding two coats of paint via sprayer, roller, or paintbrush.

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