How to Use Spray Paint to Restore Patio Furniture

Over time, patio furniture can lose its shine to rust. If your outdoor pieces are looking worse for wear, then spray paint can help you restore them on a budget. Spray paint is also a great way to refresh the look with a new colour. ovations that matter. Guaranteed Tough®.

Skill
Beginner
Time
One Weekend

Before You Start

For this project, sandpaper can be used as an alternative to a sander for prepping the paint surfaces. Soapy water can also replace TSP cleaner.


  1. 1

    Prepare the Furniture

  2. Steps:

  3. 1.1
    Use TSP cleaner to clean the patio furniture.
  4. 1.2
    Cover parts that are not getting painted:

    • Table: Cover any glass surfaces entirely with a self-adhesive film. Trim away excess with a utility knife.
    • Chairs: Cover the straps and weaves with masking tape applied over and under.

Person cleaning patio furniture with a sponge
Person cutting excess self-adhesive film with a utility knife
Person applying masking tape to an outdoor chair
  1. 2

    Sand the Surfaces to Be Painted

  2. Steps:

  3. 2.1
    Sand down the parts of the furniture that will be painted so the paint bonds well.
  4. 2.2
    If there is any rust:

    • Use TSP cleaner to clean the rusted area.
    • Use a metal or thick-bristle brush to remove as much rust as you can.
    • Apply the primer.

Person sanding the arm of a patio chair
Person spraying TSP cleaned on patio furniture
Person brushing rust off a patio umbrella base
Person sanding a patio umbrella base using sandpaper
  1. 3

    Paint the Furniture

  2. Steps:

  3. 3.1
    Use a rag to wipe away any dust.
  4. 3.2
    Place a drop sheet or tarp under the furniture.

  5. 3.3
    Insert the can into a spray grip gun and paint the furniture.
Person wiping a patio chair with a cloth
Person spray painting a patio umbrella base
Person spray painting a patio chair

Pro Tip

Ensure an even finish by holding the spray can a fixed distance away and making smooth and continuous movements.

Disclaimer

These tutorials are provided for informational purposes only. The information contained in Lowe’s tutorials is intended to provide general guidelines to simplify jobs around the house. Because tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes, and local regulations are continually changing, Lowe’s Companies Canada ULC assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein and disclaims any liability for the omissions, errors, or outcome of any project. Lowe’s Companies Canada ULC. makes no representation on the feasibility of any project and the viewer bears all risks coming with the realization of the projects. It is the responsibility of the viewer to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes, and regulations for a project. The viewer must always take proper safety precautions and exercise caution when taking on any project. If there is any doubt in regard to any element of a project, please consult a licensed professional.

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