How To Preserve Metal Yard Art?

Metal animal and plant inserts, garden wind spinners, wind chimes and more are some of the ways we love garden art to change up our surroundings! But how do you protect your outdoor items from damage caused by the elements? Follow us to learn how to preserve them and extend their life.

Protecting Metal Garden Art

Protecting Garden Decor

All of our metal products are made of steel and feature a powder-coated finish that resists fading, chipping, corrosion and other signs of wear while providing protection from the elements. While powder coating is more durable and tougher than traditional paint, no coating lasts forever! That’s why we recommend applying a coat of clear polyurethane before displaying your garden treasures, and repeating the process from time to time to keep the finish looking new.

While polyurethane can be applied with a brush, you may find it much easier to use spray polyurethane, which comes in your choice of matte or gloss finishes. It’s inexpensive and easy to use, applies in seconds and dries quickly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a safe and smooth application.

Quick Tips to Prevent Metal from Rusting:

Clean your item with a lint-free cloth, even if it’s brand new. It’s also a good idea to give your garden art a quick wipe with mineral oil. This will remove any residue that may prevent the polyurethane from bonding to the surface of the item.
Protect your work surface with a dust cloth and lay the item flat.
Apply a thin coat of polyurethane to the exposed surface and allow to dry.
Turn the item over and apply a thin coat of polyurethane to the other side.
Repeat the process a second time for added protection.
Once all sides are protected, it's time to display your item!
Remember to repeat the polyurethane treatment at least once a year. Just taking a few minutes to apply some extra touches will give you years of enjoyment from your metal garden art. If possible, bring your items to a temperature-controlled area during cold weather. They will last longer and you'll spend less time maintaining them.

What to do if you notice rust?

A polyurethane clear coat does a great job of preventing rust, but outdoor decor can sometimes take a beating, marring the surface and exposing the metal to the elements. It's a good idea to inspect your metal garden art regularly. The sooner you notice damage, the easier it will be to repair and the longer you'll be able to enjoy your favorite piece.

There are many ways to remove rust. You can try using a commercial rust remover or rust remover, or you can soak your piece in white vinegar to dissolve the rust. Once you've restored the piece to its bare metal state, wipe it dry and apply a protective coat of polyurethane. Be sure to let it dry before exposing your artwork to the elements.

Protecting Stone, Cement, Ceramic, and Resin Garden Art

Protecting Outdoor Decor

Stone, cement, terracotta, porcelain, ceramic, and resin are materials commonly used in garden artwork, such as stone figures. While these materials have considerable durability, they can crack when exposed to freezing temperatures—especially if they're damp. Lay them out in a protected area to dry before cold weather arrives, and store them in a temperature-controlled environment whenever possible.

Resin artworks fade easily. Consider placing colored items in a location that will get shade for much of the day, or apply two coats of polyurethane. Choose a brand that offers UV protection, which will help keep the colors vibrant. Scrub your resin artwork with soap and water before applying polyurethane. Allow it to dry completely before applying the first coat. Make sure the polyurethane gets into all the nooks and crannies! Once dry, apply a second coat. Allow it to cure for about 24 hours before placing it in the garden.

Here are some tips for protecting garden art and outdoor items from the elements:

Don’t stack pots on top of each other without a protective layer of cardboard or newspaper in between; they can easily crack when it’s time to separate them and use them next season.
Spray painting can work wonders for a variety of items—even cheap plastic pots can benefit from it! Choose a finish you like, clean the item thoroughly, and apply your chosen finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Consider buying covers for your outdoor furniture or outdoor wall art, which will extend its life. Store cushions in a dry, protected place during inclement weather and during the winter.
Metal patio furniture art is easy to repaint. Be sure to sand it before applying a new coat of paint, as old, flaking paint will prevent the new paint from holding.
Wooden items such as pots, furniture, and outdoor painted birdhouses should be treated regularly with an appropriate sealant. There are many options, so it’s best to do some research and decide how you want to proceed. For example, a cottage birdhouse may look different than a decorated birdhouse.

Protecting outdoor items from the elements takes a little time, but the results are worth it. Remember, if you have any questions about how to protect and preserve your garden artwork, contact us! We're here to help!