Yes, acrylic paint can be used outdoors if properly sealed and waterproofed to withstand the elements.
How to waterproof acrylic paint?
Acrylic paint – can it take on the tough outdoors? Yes, it can! Its water-resistant character makes it ideal for outdoor use.
Can Acrylic Paint Be Used Outdoors?
However, to prevent fading and peeling, you must take some precautions due to the sun and weather. UV-resistant spray varnish or adding acrylic medium to the paint will help safeguard it. Before painting outdoors, clean and sand the surface and prime it. Then, when your painting is finished, seal it with a coat of sealer or varnish suitable for the outdoors.
Unfortunately, heavy rain and snow can damage the painted surface, even with the best sealing, so if you can, try to bring your art inside during extreme weather events.
Keep your outdoor art safe – seal it with these tips!
How to Seal Acrylic Paint for Outdoor Use?
To seal acrylic paint for outdoor use with waterproofing as the solution, this section explains how to choose the proper sealant for acrylic paint and prepare the surface for sealing. Following these two sub-sections ensures that your acrylic paint creations are protected from the elements and can be enjoyed outside for years.
Choose the Right Sealant for Acrylic Paint
Choosing a sealant for acrylic paint used outdoors is vital. Durability, waterproofing, and UV protection are factors to consider. Here’s what you need to know:
| Sealant Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Polyurethane | Durable, glossy finish, suitable for high-traffic areas | It can yellow over time and takes longer to dry than other options |
| Silicone Sealant | Highly flexible, perfect for use on uneven surfaces such as concrete and stone | It must be applied in thin layers and requires many coats for proper coverage. |
| Epoxy Resin | Durable with excellent waterproofing properties. Ideal for surfaces exposed to harsh weather conditions. | The surface needs proper preparation before application. |
Pick a sealant that won’t fade in sunlight to ensure your acrylic paint looks excellent outdoors. Check product labels carefully.
I learned that acrylic paint needs a sealer to last outdoors. It’s like putting sunscreen on a toddler at the beach – necessary and tedious.
Prepare the Surface for Sealing
For a perfect seal, proper preparation is necessary. Before starting to seal acrylic paint for outdoor use, prepare the surface. This will give you a flawless finish and make the painting more durable. Here’s a 6-step guide to doing the prep work:
- First, remove dirt, dust, and other stuff with a dry cloth.
- Wash the surface with soap and water. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean grease and oil stains. Rinse and let dry.
- Patch cracks, holes, and uneven areas with an appropriate filler. Use sandpaper to level out any protrusions.
- Sand the surface lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper. This creates micro-abrasions on the paint layer, enhancing adhesion.
- Thoroughly clean the sanded surface with a non-linting cloth or paper towel to remove dust.
- Apply primer over the complete painting area before using a sealant. Primer strengthens the bond between paint and glue.
Remember, before sealing surfaces like clay pots, metals, or house sidings, make sure the base coat is dried off.
Wait 24 hours after painting for the best results to start the sealant process. Protect your acrylic painting with waterproofing to prevent it from becoming a watercolor.
Protecting Metal Garden Art
All of our metal products are made of steel with a powder coated finish, which provides protection from the elements while resisting fading, chipping, corrosion, and other signs of wear. While powder coating is long-lasting and much harder than traditional paint, no finish lasts forever! That’s why we recommend that you treat your garden treasures to a coat of clear polyurethane before displaying them, and repeat the process from time to time to keep the finish looking new.
While polyurethane can be applied with a brush, you may find it far simpler to use spray polyurethane, which comes in your choice of matte or glossy finishes. Inexpensive and easy to use, it goes on in seconds and dries quickly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safety and smooth application.
Quick tips for protecting metal from rust:
- Clean the item with a lint-free cloth, even if it’s brand-new. It’s a good idea to treat your garden art to a quick wipe down with mineral spirits, too. This will remove any residue that might prevent the polyurethane from bonding to the item’s surface.
- Protect your work surface with a dropcloth and lay the item flat.
- Apply one light coat of polyurethane to the exposed surface, and then allow it to dry.
- Flip the item over and apply a light coat of polyurethane to the opposite side.
- Repeat the process a second time for added protection.
- Once all sides have been protected, display your item!
Remember to repeat your polyurethane treatment at least once a year. With a little bit of extra finish and a few minutes of your time, your metal garden art will provide many years of enjoyment. If possible, bring your items in to a temperature-controlled area during freezing weather. They’ll last even longer, and you’ll spend less time maintaining them.
What If I Notice Rust?
Polyurethane clear coats do a great job of preventing rust, but outdoor décor can sometimes be subject to impacts that damage the finish and leave metal exposed to the elements. It’s a good idea to inspect your metal garden art periodically. The sooner you catch damage, the easier it is to repair, and the longer you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite pieces.
There are many ways to get rid of rust. You can try using a commercial rust remover or rust converter, or you can soak your item in white vinegar to dissolve the rust. Once you’ve gotten your item back to bare metal, dry it and apply a protective coat of polyurethane. Be sure to let it dry before exposing your art to the elements.
Protecting Stone, Cement, Ceramic, and Resin Garden Art
Stone, cement, terra-cotta, porcelain, ceramic, and resin are common materials used in garden art, such as stone statues.While these offer quite a bit of durability, they can crack when exposed to freezing temperatures – particularly if they’re damp. Dry them in a protected area before freezing weather arrives, and store them in a temperature-controlled environment if possible.
Resin art is prone to fading. Consider keeping colorful items in an area that receives shade most of the day, or treat them to two coats of polyurethane. Choose a brand with UV protection, which will help keep colors bright. Scrub resin art with soap and water before applying the polyurethane. Let it dry completely before applying the first coat. Be sure to get the poly into all the nooks and crannies! Once it’s dry, apply a second coat. Let it cure for about 24 hours before placing it in the garden.
A few more tips for protecting garden art and outdoor items from the elements:
- Don’t stack pots together without placing a protective layer of cardboard or newspaper between them; they’re prone to cracking when it’s time to separate them and use them the following season.
- Spray paint can work wonders for a variety of items – even cheap plastic pots can benefit! Choose a finish that you like, clean the item well, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the finish you’ve chosen.
- Consider purchasing covers for your outdoor furniture or outdoor wall art features , and it’ll last longer. Store cushions in a dry, protected area during inclement weather and over the winter.
- Metal patio furniture is easy to refinish. Be sure to sand it before applying a new finish, since old, chipped paint can prevent your new finish from staying put.
- Wood items such as planters, furniture and outdoor painted birdhouses should be treated to an appropriate sealant periodically. There are many options available, so it’s a good idea to conduct a little research and decide how you’d like to proceed. For example the cottage birdhouse may be different to the decorated birdhouses.
It takes a little time to protect outdoor items from the elements, but the results are well worth the effort. Remember, if you have any questions about how to protect and preserve your garden art, reach out! We’re here to help!
