Maya Ellison
Painting outdoor plastic furniture is a simple and budget-friendly way to add personality to your outdoor space. To paint outdoor plastic furniture, you will need to use a spray paint that is specifically designed to stick to plastic. Before painting, ensure that the plastic surface is clean and dry. You can then apply a thin coat of spray paint, holding the can about 10 inches from the surface. After the first coat has dried, you can apply a second coat for full coverage. Finally, expose the painted furniture to sunlight to allow the paint to harden under UV exposure.
Painting Outdoor Plastic Furniture
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint Type | Spray paint |
| Paint Brands | Rust-Oleum, Krylon's Fusion, Dulux Duramax |
| Paint Features | Specifically made to stick to plastic, primer mixed in |
| Paint Technique | Hold the can 10 inches from the surface, keep the can moving while spraying |
| Paint Drying | Expose to sun for UV hardening, air-dry in the shade |
| Paint Coats | Two thin coats |
| Clean-up | Drop cloth or old sheet |
| Top Coat | Clearcoat sealer |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right paint
Type of Paint
It is recommended to use spray paint for plastic furniture as it is easy to apply, time-efficient, and guarantees a smooth finish. However, if you are more comfortable with a brush, you can also use brush-on paint, which offers more control and doesn't have overspray issues.
Paint for Plastic
When choosing paint, opt for paint specifically designed for plastic surfaces. Plastic can be challenging for paint to adhere to, so using the right paint ensures better results. Look for paint that is formulated for outdoor plastic furniture, as it will be more durable and resistant to the elements.
Primer
Consider using a primer designed for plastic materials, especially if you want to use a colour that is not typically available for plastic. A primer will help the paint adhere better and create a more durable finish. Combination paint and primer sprays are also available, which can save you time and provide a good base for your paint.
Satin Finish
A satin finish is recommended for plastic surfaces. It will give your furniture a nice sheen and help protect it from the elements. If you use a primer, you can choose any colour for your topcoat, allowing for more customisation.
Ventilation and Protection
Always work in a well-ventilated area when painting. Set up your workspace outdoors or in a garage with the door open. Protect the surrounding surfaces with newspaper, a tarp, or cardboard, and consider using painter's tape to cover any parts of the furniture you don't want to paint. Don't forget to protect your eyes and wear old shoes or protective footwear.
Testing and Instructions
Before committing to a paint job, test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture to ensure it adheres well. Additionally, take the time to read the instructions on the paint can carefully. Understanding dry times and recoat times is crucial to achieving the best results and avoiding imperfections in your finish.
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Preparing the surface
Firstly, choose an appropriate workspace. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling paint fumes. A garage with the door open or a flat surface outdoors is ideal. Make sure to protect the surrounding area by covering the ground and any other surfaces with newspaper, a tarp, or cardboard. This will prevent paint from getting on unwanted surfaces. Set up a workspace where overspray won't be an issue, and protect your eyes from paint spray.
Next, clean the furniture thoroughly. If the furniture is new, wipe it down with a cloth soaked in paint thinner or an all-purpose cleaner. For older furniture, fill a bucket with hot water and add an ammonia-based cleaner to remove any dirt, mildew, or mould. Use a sponge to wash the entire surface of the furniture, then spray it down with a hose, ensuring you spray from multiple angles for a complete rinse.
Once the furniture is clean and dry, it's time to sand the surface. Sanding helps create a smooth surface and allows the paint to adhere better. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to gently brush the entire surface. Test your sanding material in an inconspicuous spot to ensure it doesn't scratch the plastic. If visible scratches appear, reduce the pressure or use a finer grit.
After sanding, you may want to consider priming the surface. Primer helps the paint adhere better and is especially useful if you plan to use a colour that is not typically available for plastic materials. Choose a primer designed for plastic materials stored outdoors, and apply it with a spray can. Spray the entire surface you intend to paint in a steady back-and-forth motion, holding the can's nozzle 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the surface.
Now, your plastic outdoor furniture is ready for painting! Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for dry times and recoat times to ensure the best results.
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Primer application
Before applying primer, ensure that the plastic surface is clean, dry, and smooth. Remove any mildew by scrubbing the area with a 3:1 water and bleach solution. Keep the area wet for about 20 minutes, then rinse. Next, clean the object thoroughly with detergent and warm water. Rinse and let dry. You can also use a mixture of hot water and an ammonia-based cleaner to clean off any dirt and mildew.
To ensure the paint sticks better, sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. You can use sandpaper or a sanding sponge to gently brush the entire surface. Test your sanding material in an inconspicuous spot on the furniture. If visible scratches appear, reduce the pressure or use sanding equipment with a finer grit.
Now, your plastic outdoor furniture is ready for primer application. Choose a primer designed for plastic materials stored outdoors. These primers are available at your local home improvement store and come in spray cans. Shake the can and spray the entire surface you intend to paint. Hold the can's nozzle 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the surface and apply the primer in a steady back-and-forth motion.
Let the primer dry completely before applying the paint. You can use a combination paint and primer designed for plastic surfaces or prime the surface with a plastic-specific primer first. A satin finish is recommended for plastic surfaces.
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Painting technique
Painting outdoor plastic furniture is a simple and budget-friendly way to add personality to your outdoor space. The key to painting plastic outdoor furniture is to use spray paint specifically made to stick to plastic. You can use a brush-on paint, but spray paint is easier to apply evenly and will give a more professional finish.
First, set up your work area. It's best to paint outdoors, as spray paint can be messy. If painting on the lawn is not an option, use a drop cloth or old sheet to protect the ground from paint.
Next, clean the furniture thoroughly with dishwashing liquid and a scrub brush to remove any dirt and debris. Once the furniture is clean and dry, you may want to turn it upside down and spray the underside first. This will allow you to get a feel for the rhythm of your spray painting.
Hold the can about 10 inches from the surface of the plastic and keep the can moving while you spray. Apply a thin coat of spray paint for plastic. Don't worry about full coverage during this first coat. Let the first coat dry for about 30 minutes, and then apply a second coat. You may need to get down on your hands and knees to crawl around the furniture and touch up any spots you may have missed.
Finally, turn the furniture right-side up and finish painting any remaining unpainted areas. Expose the painted furniture to sunlight so that the paint will harden under UV exposure. If you only air-dry the furniture in the shade, the paint will take a long time to reach its maximum strength.
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Aftercare
Allow Proper Drying Time
After painting, it's crucial to allow sufficient drying time before using the furniture. The paint may feel dry to the touch, but it needs time to cure and harden fully. The amount of drying time will depend on the type of paint used and the weather conditions. In ideal weather, with good sunlight, the paint may be dry to the touch in 30 minutes to a few hours. However, it is recommended to let the paint cure for at least 24 hours before using the furniture.
Expose to Sunlight
To enhance the hardening process, expose the painted furniture to sunlight. Paint, especially on plastic surfaces, cures and strengthens under UV exposure. If the furniture is left to air dry in the shade, it will take significantly longer to reach its maximum strength.
Apply a Protective Topcoat
To protect your paint job and ensure its longevity, consider applying a clear coat or topcoat. A protective topcoat acts as a sealer, shielding the paint from the elements, including rain, snow, and sunlight. It adds an extra layer of defence against chipping, fading, and general wear and tear. Choose a topcoat specifically designed for outdoor use and plastic surfaces.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning will help maintain the furniture's appearance and prolong the life of the paint job. Use a mild soap or detergent and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the furniture periodically. Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the paint. For more stubborn dirt or mildew, use a mixture of hot water and an ammonia-based cleaner.
Touch-ups and Re-painting
Over time, the paint may chip, scratch, or fade, especially in high-use areas. Inspect your furniture regularly for any signs of wear and tear. Small touch-ups can be done with a brush or spray paint to cover any affected areas. If the paint is extensively damaged or faded, you may need to consider re-painting the entire piece of furniture, following the original painting process.
By following these aftercare instructions, you can maintain the appearance and longevity of your painted outdoor plastic furniture, ensuring it looks vibrant and colourful for years to come.
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Frequently asked questions
The best paint to use for outdoor plastic furniture is spray paint specifically made to stick to plastic. Some recommended brands are Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover and Krylon's Fusion for Plastic.
First, wash the furniture with dishwashing liquid and a scrub brush to remove any dirt and debris. Once the furniture is dry, apply a thin coat of spray paint for plastic. Hold the can about 10 inches from the surface of the furniture and keep the can moving while you spray. Allow the first coat to dry for about 30 minutes before applying a second coat.
It is recommended to use a primer before painting outdoor plastic furniture to ensure the paint adheres properly. Some spray paints, like Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover Paint+Prime, have a primer mixed in, so you can spray the paint directly onto the plastic.
