Furniture Painting and Restoration in Vero Beach Florida has seen a revolution, thanks to techniques that prioritize both durability and aesthetic appeal. When looking to revamp metal or iron patio furniture you may have sitting around, understanding the right process and the advantages of various treatments can make all the difference in the world.
When you stroll through scenic Vero Beach, it’s common to find patios adorned with iron or metal furniture. These pieces, while offering timeless appeal, need the right care to battle the Florida elements like heat, humidity, etc. Enter Ocean Blue Painting: experts in furniture painting and restoration in Vero Beach FL. Our technique for metal patio furniture is both precise and innovative, ensuring longevity and a flawless finish you will love!
Here are the steps we follow to ensure the best refinishing job around.
2. Detailed Sanding and Refinement
Post-cleaning, Ocean Blue’s team uses a wire disc combined with varying sandpaper grits to sand down any persisting rough areas. This meticulous process ensures that all deteriorating material is thoroughly addressed and removed/cleaned.
3. Priming with Superiority: DTM Industrial Enamel
After prepping, we prime the furniture with Direct-to-Metal (DTM) industrial enamel. As its name suggests, DTM is specially crafted for metal surfaces, ensuring an optimum bond.
4. The Scuff Sand Step
Before the final painting, the primed surface is lightly scuff-sanded. This process further ensures paint adherence and a smoother finish.
5. Final Flourish: Two Coats of DTM Industrial Enamel
With the furniture surface well-prepped, two robust coats of DTM industrial enamel are applied. This guarantees a finish that’s both visually appealing and enduring.
Why DTM Over Powder Coating?
Though powder coating is a popular choice for metal furniture manufacturing, DTM offers several distinct advantages.
Touch-Up Ease: Powder coating, an electrostatically created coat, is difficult for homeowners to touch up without specific equipment. In contrast, DTM, being an acrylic, can be effortlessly touched up with an enamel roller available at any paint store.
Longevity in Florida’s Climate: The challenging Florida weather can take a toll on powder coatings, leading them to peel over time. DTM, when it starts to show age, primarily loses its sheen and color intensity. The repainting process is far less labor-intensive than with deteriorating powder coating.
High-Temperature Resilience: Vero Beach’s scorching sun can cause metal furniture to reach high temperatures. While traditional acrylic house paint would degrade rapidly under such conditions, DTM is specifically designed to resist and endure.
Caring for Your Patio Furniture: Tips and Tricks
Patio furniture, whether made of metal, wicker, or wood, requires regular care to maintain its luster, avoid cracking and chipping and to prolong its lifespan. The elements can be unkind, especially in sun-soaked and humid places like Vero. Here are some expert-recommended best practices for expert patio furniture care:
1. Routine Cleaning: At least once a month, give your furniture a good cleaning using mild soap and water for most kinds of materials and furniture. For metal furniture, consider dedicated cleaners like those recommended by Better Homes & Gardens. Gently scrubbing the surface will prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime, which can become more challenging to remove over time.
2. Use Protective Covers: Even the most durable outdoor furniture benefits from the use of protective covers. Websites like Coverstore offer a vast range of covers for different furniture types. These covers can shield your furniture from harmful UV rays, rain, and debris.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While it might be tempting to use a strong cleaning agent to remove stubborn stains, it’s essential to steer clear of harsh chemicals. Websites like Good Housekeeping have a plethora of safe cleaning solutions that won’t damage your furniture’s finish.
4. Store Cushions Indoors: If your furniture has cushions, it’s a good idea to store them indoors or in a dedicated storage box when not in use. This practice, recommended by Sunbrella, can prevent mold, mildew, and premature fading.
5. Check for Rust and Wear: Metal furniture, even when treated with durable finishes like DTM, can sometimes exhibit signs of wear or rust, especially if there’s any damage to the coating. Regular inspections, combined with touch-ups using products from reputable brands, can keep your furniture looking fresh. For comprehensive guidance on dealing with rust, consider visiting Bob Vila’s tips on rust removal.
6. Reapply Protective Finishes: Over time, the protective finishes on your furniture might wear off. Periodically reapplying finishes, as suggested by experts on Family Handyman, can keep your pieces looking new and protect them from the elements.
Incorporating these care tips into your maintenance routine can keep your patio furniture in prime condition, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors in style and comfort for years to come.
