Keeping your patio furniture rust-free ensures it stays looking great and lasts for years. Rust can not only affect the appearance of your outdoor furniture but can also compromise its durability.  For those that live in a colder climate, the end of summer signals shorter days and cooler temperatures, which means less time spent outdoors, and patio furniture sitting neglected until the next warm weather opportunity arises. With regular maintenance and a few preventive measures, you can protect your patio furniture from rust.

Is My Patio Furniture Rust-Prone?

Choosing patio furniture made of durable materials is not only good for your wallet, it’s good for the environment, too. According to a recent study, reducing the amount of steel that needs to be replaced due to corrosion could have measurable effects on how much greenhouse gases are produced to make steel. Steel is just one option for patio furniture, that historically has been the most susceptible to rust. Higher quality manufacturing processes and materials lead to longer lasting products but there are other materials to choose from, as well:

• Aluminum is lightweight and naturally rust-resistant, and is an excellent option for outdoor furniture. This will commonly be powder coated, providing an extra layer of protection.
• Stainless Steel is highly resistant to rust, especially when it’s properly cleaned and maintained. Regular steel is the most rust prone but paint or powder coating can greatly reduce the chances of rusting.
• Wrought Iron is heavy and durable, Ensure it’s coated with a rust-resistant finish or powder coating to help prevent rusting.
• Resin and Teak Wood are rust-resistant options that can add elegance to your outdoor space. These tend to be durable but are subject to breakage due to the relative fragility of wood and composite furniture.
• Plastic is a classic material for low cost patio furniture. The lightweight material makes it easy to move around, and does not require any painting or rust proofing. Modern manufacturing techniques have made plastic or nylon furniture more attractive but it’s usually only good for a few seasons. It can be easily broken due to wind damage or heavy objects.

Use Protective Covers

Keeping your patio furniture clean and dry is key to preventing rust. Covers are one of the easiest ways to shield patio furniture from moisture, UV rays, and other elements that contribute to rust. Covering your furniture when it’s not in use—especially during rainy or snowy seasons—will protect it from prolonged exposure to moisture. If you have space, consider storing your furniture in a garage or shed during the winter to keep it dry and free from the elements. Our covers that include VCI protection are a great fit for covering patio furniture. Depending on the size of your furniture, a motorcycle, bicycle, table saw or car cover can cover the chairs, outdoor sofa or table and umbrella.

Inspect for Rust Regularly

Occasional inspection allows you to address rust spots before they spread. Check for early signs of rust. Small rust spots are easier to fix than larger patches. Look for any discoloration or rough spots on the surface. Pay careful attention to any hardware such as nuts and bolts, rivets, or welds that might be starting to rust. If you notice any rust spots, use a wire brush or fine sandpaper to remove the rust. Once the rust is removed, clean the area, dry it thoroughly, and apply a rust-resistant primer or paint to prevent the spot from rusting again.
Applying a rust-resistant coating is an excellent preventive measure, especially if you have iron or steel furniture:

• Clear Sealant or Protective Spray: Look for a clear rust-resistant spray or sealant designed for metal surfaces. Zerust Axxanol Spray-G is ideal for protecting metal parts as it can protect metal surfaces for a year outdoors.
• Paint with Rust-Resistant Paint: For older furniture or items showing signs of wear, apply paint such as enamel to add a protective barrier. Be sure to sand and remove any rust patches before applying the paint.
• Wax for Extra Protection: Use automotive wax on metal surfaces to add a water-repellent layer. This can help protect your furniture from rust and adds shine as well.

Rust Free Patio Furniture Storage

When winter arrives or heavy rains are forecasted, storing your furniture in a garage or shed is the best way to preserve your valuable furniture. If storing outdoors is necessary, placing your furniture on grass or dirt makes it more susceptible to moisture, which can lead to rust. Position your furniture on a patio, deck, or other hard surface to reduce its exposure to ground moisture. If placing furniture on a wet surface is unavoidable, use an outdoor rug or mat as a barrier to prevent rust from forming on the legs. While cushions themselves don’t rust, they can hold moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew, and transfer to the metal parts of your furniture. Choose cushions with waterproof or water-resistant covers to reduce the risk of water absorption. In the off-season, it’s best to store the cushions in a dry environment and covered if it is a dusty environment.

Rust prevention for patio furniture is easy and affordable with the right methods and regular maintenance. By choosing the right materials, investing in a quality cover, keeping the furniture clean and dry, and applying protective coatings, you can keep your patio furniture looking great and rust-free for years.

Zerust VCI technology is designed to emit an odorless, harmless vapor that protects metal surfaces from rust.

Contact Zerust for information on how to prevent rust on outdoor patio furniture by emailing or calling (330) 405-1965.

Additional Resources:

Reducing Steel Corrosion Vital to Combating Climate Change, n.d, Ohio State University

More Blog Entries:

Prevent Rust on Patio Furniture in After-Summer Storage, September 15, 2018, Zerust Products Blog
Zerust Helps Keep Your BBQ Utensils Rust-Free, Aug. 15, 2018, Zerust Prevent Rust Technology Blog