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Rust is created when water and oxygen combine to attack iron and steel – the ferrous metals. But metal can be protected by putting a barrier of rust-inhibiting metal primer, which contains special ingredients to prevent rust formation, over its surface. At least two coats of finishing paint on top of the primer should keep the enemy at bay.

Protecting metal
Some metal items, however, are not suitable for painting, such as garden tools, hinges and latches. Here you should smear the surfaces with oil or grease or use an aerosol to coat the material with a film of water-displacing oil. Oil tends to evaporate quickly outdoors so items kept or regularly used in the open are best smeared with grease.

Any new metal parts (such as window frames and replacement metal guttering) which could be fairly inaccessible after installation should be treated with at least two thick coats of primer and at least one finishing coat of paint. Prominent areas, such as edges which are vulnerable to knocks, should also be given two coats of primer. Pay particular attention to rivets, bolts, nails and screws.

An alternative to rust-inhibiting primer is zinc-chromate paint, which is based on the cold galvanizing process. This paint kills offrust and protects at the same time. It is available in tins or as an aerosol; the latter is useful when treating inaccessible areas, but a brush coat is always preferable since a thicker layer can be applied. Non-painted items should be oiled or greased. Read the rest of this entry »