Wear a mask that is rated for lead paint, gloves, and a protective coverall suit. If the railing tests positive for lead paint, start by protecting the work area with tough, plastic drop cloths.ī. Follow the instructions on the lead test.Ī. If the railings were installed in 1978 or earlier, start by testing the railings for lead paint.

| Colleen McQuaid Steps for Repainting a Metal Hand Rail Despite the name, direct-to-metal paints perform best when applied over an oil-based primer. Then replace any badly rusted fasteners with ones made of stainless steel.Īfter sanding and priming the railing, Mauro Henrique rolls on two coats of a direct-to-metal alkyd enamel paint, an industrial coating that prevents rust. Wherever paint remains, sand its edges smooth with the bare metal. When all the loose paint is off, go over the entire railing with 150-grit sandpaper. On curved sections and areas a scraper can’t reach, a stiff-bristled wire brush will do the trick. A paint scraper works just fine on the flat railing sections. You don’t need power tools or chemicals to remove paint from metal. If the railing is lead-free (like the one I’m working on above), spread drop cloths over the stairs and nearby areas to capture the paint chips. If you find a lead layer, don’t proceed until you’ve read the EPA’s online guide “ Steps to Lead Safe Renovation, Repair, and Painting” and have put into place the protections it stipulates for safeguarding yourself and your home. Practice Safety When Testing for Leadīefore you begin, test the railing paint for lead with a kit such as 3M LeadCheck, which is sold at paint stores and home centers. The good news is that with a little elbow grease and the right coatings, your railing can look just like new again. The steel used in “wrought-iron” railings is very susceptible to rust.

Metal hand rails