Metal yard art: rust, patina and how to keep the color
A metal rooster in your garden is going to live outside in Texas weather. Here is what happens to it over time, and what you can do about it.
Why metal art rusts
Most Mexican yard art is made from steel, often recycled. When bare steel meets oxygen and water, it forms rust. Painted pieces are protected where the paint is intact, and start to rust where it chips or wears through.
Patina can be a good thing
A lot of our customers love the warm brown patina that bare metal pieces develop. It looks natural in a garden bed and settles the piece into its surroundings. Surface rust does not mean the sculpture is weak; it takes many years for it to go deeper.
Keeping the color bright
- Spray painted pieces with a clear outdoor sealant once a year, ideally in spring.
- Touch up chips with exterior enamel before rust spreads.
- Keep the feet off wet soil with a few pavers or gravel underneath.
- Rinse off sprinkler residue, which can leave mineral spots.
Indoors
Smaller pieces such as wall art and cactus lamps last practically forever indoors. Dust them and enjoy.
Browse our metal yard art or come see the full yard at 10416 N FM 620, Austin, TX 78726.
Come walk the yard.
Most of what we carry never makes it online. The best way to find your piece is to wander the store on FM 620.
