Patio Table and Chair restoration

[Will561]

I have this very heavy solid Cast Aluminum patio table and 6 chairs. The finish is flaking. I want to restore and spray paint another color (black or brown).

The old paint/coating obviously needs to be removed first. I just have a few drills/dremel, hand wire brush and drill wire brushes.

What do you feel is the best way---tools to use to remove the old paint? Or should I tell my wife to live with it. I value my weekends but paid $$$ for these and hate to bring to trash as the set is still functional and of good quality.

Thanks for all comments.

 

[astroracer]

The ONLY way to prep those for fresh paint is to have them bead blasted. That will remove the old finish and roughen the surface for fresh paint. If you want the new paint to stay, without peeling, use either a zinc chromate (developed for aluminum) or a self-etching primer. I would go with the self-etching. Once it's primed any good paint from the hardware will work fine for a top coat.
Another option over and above paint would be to have them powder coated. A little more expensive then paint but a lot more durable. They would still require blasting prior to.
Mark

 

[Will561]

The ONLY way to prep those for fresh paint is to have them bead blasted. That will remove the old finish and roughen the surface for fresh paint. If you want the new paint to stay, without peeling, use either a zinc chromate (developed for aluminum) or a self-etching primer. I would go with the self-etching. Once it's primed any good paint from the hardware will work fine for a top coat.
Another option over and above paint would be to have them powder coated. A little more expensive then paint but a lot more durable. They would still require blasting prior to.
Mark

Thanks for the advice. Trying to keep cost down. Local company wants $90/hr and estimates 4 hours for sand blasting only. Complete with powder coating $1450. OUCH...

 

[astroracer]

I guess it all boils down to how much they are worth to you. Blasting will remove the old paint AND the oxidation that is causing the paint to peel.
Do you have an air compressor? Go to Tractor Supply and buy a cheap blaster and a couple bags of Black Diamond. Blast them in your driveway.
Self-etching primer can be had in a spray can and any decent top coat will work. Rustoleum Hammered would be a good choice. Probably have another hundred into it for rattle cans.
Mark

 

[fourjeepin]

I would pressure wash then paint. Not as good as bead blasting then powder coating, but a lot less investment. I have done this with steel outdoor furniture with pretty decent results.

 

[astroracer]

I would pressure wash then paint. Not as good as bead blasting then powder coating, but a lot less investment. I have done this with steel outdoor furniture with pretty decent results.

Pressure washing won't remove the oxide. For any coating to stick you have to get the aluminum down to bare metal, just the way it works...
Mark