ArcaMax

A metal railing provides a sturdy barrier and firm gripping surface that assures safe footing on the exterior entry stairs to a home. Over time the effects of weather can chip and corrode the railing, especially in high-use areas, so a fresh coat of primer and paint is needed to restore its appearance. A thorough scraping, priming and fresh topcoat of paint will add a protective finish for years to come.

A painting contractor will charge $272, which includes labor and material, to sand, prime and paint 50 feet of rusted metal railing. You can buy the primer and paint and do the job for $75, saving 72%. You’ll need sandpaper, a wire brush, a paintbrush, a drop cloth and painter’s masking tape to protect the surrounding surfaces from paint drips.

Before you do anything, lay down a drop cloth to protect the stairs and surrounding surface and any nearby shrubbery or plants. Then spend time scraping off any loose, flaked and chipped paint, and remove rust from the surface with a wire brush. Sand all the surfaces smooth and apply a rust-inhibiting primer, followed by a topcoat of protective enamel designed for metal.

This is a good first-time DIY project for a newbie do-it-yourselfer, because it’s easy to learn on the job and the materials are inexpensive. It’s goof-proof unless you spill the paint, but the drop cloth should provide protection.

Pro Cost: $272 — DIY Cost: $75 — Pro time: 6.0
DIY Time: 7.0 — DIY Savings: $197 — Percent Saved: 72%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2024 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.