how do you refinish really old metal outdoor furniture w/lots of layers of paint on it?
Answers:
Improving Wrought Iron Furniture
Remove any peeling paint and trouble spots with a wire wheel attachment on a drill. Remove mildew with a mild bleach and water solution and a rag. Remove rust by applying a rust remover and allowing to dry. A wire brush can help in removing rust.
Apply spray primer in a well-ventilated area. This will coat bare metal areas and seal any possible rust remaining on the chair. Apply two light coats of spray paint. Always read manufacturer suggestions for any paint application tips. Once the paint has dried, you are done. A project like this only costs around 15 dollars and takes about three hours, but up to 48 hours to dry.
Other answers:
Remove the old paint before doing anything else.
Remove the old paint before doing anything else.
Get a wire stripper attachment for drill gun.
use a good liquid paint stripper, a wire brush and a lot of elbow grease. Or take it to a sand blasting company and have them remove the old paint
For the beat finish, sand or bead blasting, but if the money is not available then wire brush preferably drill attachment.
Hope this helps.
Good Luck.
P.S. It will be hard work and take some time.
If the paint's that bad it may come off with a powerful pressure washer