How to Keep Rusted Metal Beautiful Without the Mess

Rusted metal has a rugged, timeworn charm that many people love. Whether it’s an architectural element, an outdoor sculpture, or a decorative feature in a home or business, rusted metal adds character and depth to any space. But while this weathered look is undeniably striking, it comes with a downside...rust stains. Over time, rust can bleed onto nearby surfaces like concrete, stucco, or even clothing, leaving unsightly marks and causing further deterioration. Fortunately, Everbrite Coatings offers a way to enjoy the beauty of rusted metal without dealing with the hassle of rust runoff.

The Problem with Rusted Metal

If you love the rustic look of naturally aged metal, you’re not alone. The patina that forms on rusted metal is unique and can give an industrial or artistic edge to any project. However, rust is more than just a design choice, it’s an ongoing chemical reaction that doesn’t stop on its own. Left unprotected, rusted surfaces continue to oxidize, leading to several problems:

• Rust stains on surrounding areas – Rust can drip onto patios, walls, and floors, creating tough stains that are difficult to remove. This is especially frustrating when the metal is near concrete, tile, or other porous surfaces that easily absorb rust.

• Continuous deterioration – Exposure to moisture accelerates rusting, causing metal to weaken over time. What starts as a decorative feature can quickly turn into a structural liability.

• An uneven, flaky appearance – Unsealed rust can start to flake or rub off, which may not be the look you’re going for. If the rusted metal is something that gets touched or moved, like a sculpture or outdoor furniture, this can become messy and inconvenient.

  
  

Why Does Rust Transfer Happen?

Rust transfer occurs when moisture (such as rain, humidity, or condensation) interacts with oxidized metal, causing the rust particles to wash down onto nearby surfaces. This is a common issue with architectural features like corten steel, which is designed to develop a rusted patina over time. While corten steel is often praised for its aesthetic, it’s notorious for staining sidewalks, walls, and anything in its path.

So, how do you stop rust transfer while keeping the beautiful aged look? The answer is sealing rusted metal with Everbrite Coating.

How to Seal Rusted Metal

Sealing rusted metal with Everbrite coating is the best way to maintain its character while stopping rust from spreading. Everbrite Coatings offers a high-quality clear coating that creates a barrier against moisture, preventing further oxidation and stopping rust stains in their tracks. Here’s how to do it properly:

Step 1: Clean the Surface

Before applying Everbrite coating, the rusted metal needs to be clean and dry. Dirt, grease, mill scale or loose rust particles can prevent the coating from adhering properly. To clean the surface:

• Use a soft brush or prep pad (synthetic steel wool pad) to remove any dust or loose rust.

• If artificially rusting the metal, ensure the removal of mill scale for good adhesion.

• If the metal has been exposed to grease or oil, clean it with a degreaser first. Rinse completely and ensure the metal is completely dry before proceeding.

  
  

Step 2: Ensure the Metal is Dry

If using water to clean or test the surface, ensure that the metal is completely dry. You can use a heat gun or hair dryer to heat the metal. You can also leave the metal in full sunlight to help dry it. If steam escapes the metal, this means there is still moisture in the metal. Heat until no steam appears, then let the metal cool down before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Solvent Wipe or Spray

Rusted metal, corten and raw steel are all very porous surfaces. Moisture commonly dwells inside the metal pores. Completing a solvent wipe or spraying with a clean solvent removes most moisture as well as helps the coating adhere to the surface. Clean solvents include denatured alcohol or acetone. 

Step 4: Apply Everbrite Coating

Everbrite Coatings offers a long-lasting, clear protective sealant that is specifically designed for rusted metal. You can apply Everbrite using a brush, roller, or spray, depending on your preference. For the best protection, applying multiple coats is recommended; typically three to four coats for heavily rusted metal.

To ensure the rust is completely encapsulated, a transference test is recommended. 

1. Grab a clean white cloth. It's essential that the color is white or very light, allowing you to easily see if any rust color transfers.

2. Wipe the coated surface firmly with the clean white cloth. 

3. Inspect the cloth, if it is clean, the rust is fully encapsulated. If any color transferred, another coat is needed. 

   
   

Step 5: Let It Cure

Once applied, let Everbrite cure for 4-5 days. Avoid stacking, packaging or exposure to moisture until it’s cured. This ensures a strong bond that will last for years.

Benefits of Sealing Rusted Metal with Everbrite

Applying Everbrite to rusted metal offers several advantages, beyond just stopping rust stains. Here are some key benefits:

1. Stops Rust Stains

One of the biggest problems with rusted metal is that it can stain anything it touches. Whether it’s an outdoor sculpture, a corten steel planter, or a metal gate, unsealed rust can drip and create unsightly marks on surrounding areas. Everbrite locks in the rust, preventing this problem entirely.

2. Prevents Further Corrosion

Rust is a living process, it continues to spread unless something stops it. By sealing rusted metal with Everbrite, you halt the oxidation process, keeping the rust from eating deeper into the material. This is particularly important for structural elements, furniture, or outdoor fixtures exposed to the elements.

3. Enhances the Look

The application of Everbrite coating on rusted metal will enhance its natural beauty. It brings out the deep, rich color of rust. This darkening is a direct result of the coating sealing the porous, powdered rust, which prevents light reflection. The coating is available in different sheens, including clear, satin and matte, so you can choose the look that best suits your project. The result is a more intentional aesthetic without the mess.

The rich, deep color of rust is preserved with Everbrite coating.

4. Easy to Apply

Unlike paint or other coatings that may require special tools, sealing rusted metal with Everbrite is a straightforward process. Most people can apply it themselves with a simple wipe, brush, roller, or spray, making it a DIY-friendly project.

5. Long-Lasting Protection

Once applied, Everbrite provides durable, long-lasting protection, keeping the surface looking great and maintenance-free for years. It also offers UV protection, preventing the metal from fading or changing color over time.

Real-World Applications

Many people have used Everbrite Coatings to preserve rusted metal while avoiding rust stains. Here are some examples:

• Outdoor Sculptures: Artists and designers use rusted metal in sculptures, but without sealing, rust can stain the ground beneath them. Everbrite ensures the sculpture stays intact and rust-free for years.

• Corten Steel Planters: These are popular in modern landscaping, but they’re notorious for rust runoff that stains patios and sidewalks. Everbrite stops rust bleed and keeps outdoor spaces looking clean.

• Metal Furniture: Rusted metal chairs and tables add a vintage touch, but they can leave rust marks on clothing or skin. Everbrite coating keeps the furniture looking great while preventing rust from rubbing off.

• Architectural Features: Rusted metal is often used in facades, fences, and gates. Everbrite prevents these structures from deteriorating and staining nearby walls or walkways.

Rusted Metal Sculpture

Everbrite Coatings also offers a Rust Accelerator for the fast creation of rust on iron or ferrous metals including Corten.  If the rust is artificially created, care must be taken not to disturb delicate patinas by rubbing hard when cleaning or coating application.

Final Thoughts

Rusted metal doesn’t have to be a high-maintenance feature. With Everbrite Coatings, you can enjoy the look of rusted metal without the downside of stains and further corrosion. Whether it’s an art installation, furniture piece, or architectural element, Everbrite ensures that your rusted metal stays beautiful, protected, and mess-free for years to come. If you love the look of rusted metal but don’t want to deal with rust bleeding or deterioration, Everbrite is the perfect solution.