Removing Rust Stains Before Painting

General Safety Advice

For every manual sanding process we recommend to use eye and mouth protection, gloves and appropriate close fitting clothing. When you are going to use a sanding machine, we also advise to use ear protection.

Basics

As moisture is a precondition for rust, try to eliminate all moisture sources.

To paint an object which contains rust stains, you need the following products from our Flexovit Merchandising product range:

Next to that, you should add to your shopping list:

• Rust Primer
• Filling Compound for exterior use
• Spattle
• Paint

Step 1: Rust Removal

Remove loose rust and coat from the surface with the wire brush.  Then sand the workpiece with medium grit first until all rusty and stained particles are gone. Pay special attention to nailheads: countersink nailheads until 3 mm. below the surface.

Step 2: Priming and Filling

Apply a layer of rust primer to the area according to the manufacturer's instructions. When this is dry, use a spattle to fill up cracks, depressions and nailholes with the filling compound. Remove excessive filling compound and flatten it using the spattle. Let the compound dry as to manufacturer's instructions.

Step 3: Sanding and Painting

Sand the entire area using circular motions and appropriate pressure. The sanding block helps you to get an even surface. When sanding, you might notice that the compound filler has not filled up all holes. You then need to apply some more filler, let it dry again as to manufacturer's instructions and then sand the area again.

Special tip: Flexovit Quick Release Sanding Block

This profiled foam block enables comfortable sanding and very good adaption to the surface. The quick release sheets can be easily exchanged.

Important notice: Use moist cloth to remove the dust from the sanded surface before painting. Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying the paint. Painting should be done according to the recommendation of the paint producer.

Good luck!