How Do You Weatherproof Metal Art?

Rain chains, garden wind spinners, wind chimes and more: we love the way garden art transforms our surroundings! But how do you protect your outdoor items from damage caused by exposure to the elements? Whether you purchased your treasures from Happy Garden or elsewhere, we want to help you learn how to preserve them and help them last longer.

Preserving Metal Garden Art

All of our metal products are made from steel and are powder coated to provide protection from the elements while preventing fading, chipping, corrosion and other signs of wear and tear. While powder coating lasts longer and is harder than traditional paint, no topcoat lasts forever! That’s why we recommend applying a clear coat of polyurethane before displaying your garden treasures, and repeating the process from time to time to keep the finish looking new.

While polyurethane can be applied with a brush, you may find it much easier to use spray-on polyurethane, which is available in matte or glossy finishes. Inexpensive and easy to use, it takes just seconds to apply and dries quickly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and smooth use.

Quick tips to prevent metal from rusting:

Even if it's brand new, clean the item with a lint-free cloth. It's also a good idea to give your garden art a quick wipe down with mineral spirits. This will remove any residue that may prevent the polyurethane from bonding to the surface of the item.

Protect your work surface with a drop cloth and lay items flat.

Apply a thin layer of polyurethane to the exposed surface and let dry.

Turn the item over and apply a thin layer of polyurethane to the other side.

Repeat the process a second time for added protection.

Once all sides are protected, display your items!

Remember to repeat the polyurethane treatment at least once a year. With just a little extra touch-up and a few minutes of your time, your metal garden art will provide years of enjoyment. If possible, take your belongings to a temperature-controlled area during cold weather. They will last longer and you will spend less time maintaining them.

What should I do if I find rust?

Polyurethane varnish works well to prevent rust, but outdoor decking can sometimes take impact, damaging the finish and exposing the metal to the elements. It's a good idea to check your metal garden art regularly. The sooner damage is discovered, the easier it is to repair and the longer you can enjoy your favorite piece.

There are many ways to remove rust. You can try using a commercial rust remover or rust remover, or soak the item in white vinegar to dissolve the rust. After the item is restored to bare metal, it is dried and coated with a protective layer of polyurethane. Always let your art dry before exposing it to the elements.