In Chicago’s West Town and Ukrainian Village neighborhoods, exposed metal railings, balconies, and gates face harsh Midwestern weather all year long. Sun, snow, and road salt gradually damage protective coatings, causing rust and peeling paint. Regular metal refinishing not only improves curb appeal but also extends the life of the structure by preventing costly corrosion.
Windy City Painters recently completed a full metal refinishing project in the West Town area. The scope included a large garage door frame, wrought-iron balconies, and perimeter railings. Below is an overview of our process, materials, and results.
Why Metal Refinishing in Chicago Matters
As a Chicago painting contractor, we often see metal elements deteriorate faster than expected. Chicago’s freeze-thaw cycles and humidity accelerate corrosion, particularly in older multi-unit buildings and industrial conversions. Once rust forms, it spreads underneath paint layers and weakens the structure.
Professional metal refinishing in Chicago removes corrosion at its source and rebuilds the protective layers with high-performance coatings. Whether you own a residential building, condominium, or commercial property, refinishing prevents structural damage and keeps your property looking clean and maintained.
Our Metal Refinishing Process
At Windy City Painters, every metal refinishing project follows a proven multi-step process. Attention to detail during surface preparation and coating application ensures long-term durability.
1. Surface Preparation and Rust Removal
The first step is to eliminate all loose paint and corrosion. Our team used angle grinders with flap discs and twisted wire cup attachments to remove peeling coatings and surface rust from the balconies, railings, and gates.
For heavily corroded areas, we employed a needle gun — an industrial tool that breaks up deep rust pockets and old coatings without damaging the metal structure. Thorough preparation is essential to ensure the new coatings bond perfectly to the surface.
2. Cleaning and Inspection
After mechanical cleaning, all surfaces were vacuumed and wiped down to remove dust, debris, and metal particles. We then inspected every joint, weld, and corner to verify that all active rust was removed. Only a clean, dry, and stable surface can accept industrial coatings.
3. Applying Rust-Converting Primer
Next, we applied Rust Destroyer® rust-converting primer to all cleaned areas. This unique formula reacts chemically with microscopic rust that may remain after grinding. It converts iron oxide into a stable, black protective layer that prevents future corrosion. Rust Destroyer also serves as a bonding primer, providing an ideal base for the topcoat.
4. Applying the Finish Coat
Once the primer cured, we applied one coat of Sherwin-Williams Corothane® Aliphatic Finish. This premium industrial coating offers exceptional durability, UV resistance, and chemical protection. It is designed for exterior metal surfaces exposed to Chicago’s fluctuating temperatures and harsh winter conditions.
Corothane produces a smooth, semi-gloss finish that enhances the look of metal elements while shielding them from moisture and oxidation. The deep, uniform color restored the modern appearance of the building’s exterior.
Results and Benefits
After completing the refinishing process, the property’s railings, balconies, and gates looked brand new. The clean black finish contrasted beautifully with the building’s light brick façade, giving the entire structure a refreshed, professional look.
Beyond aesthetics, the project achieved several long-term benefits:
- Protection from rust and corrosion for years to come.
- Extended life of all metal components, reducing future maintenance costs.
- Improved property value and curb appeal.
- Safer and cleaner surfaces, free from peeling paint and sharp rust edges.
Materials Used
- Surface prep tools: Angle grinder with flap discs and twisted wire cups
- Heavy rust removal: Needle gun
- Primer: Rust Destroyer® Rust-Converting Primer
- Finish coat: Sherwin-Williams Corothane® Aliphatic Finish
These industrial-grade coatings are formulated for metal bridges, structural steel, and high-exposure environments — ensuring that your metalwork remains protected even in Chicago’s demanding climate.
Why Choose Windy City Painters
As a trusted painting contractor in Chicago, Windy City Painters provides both aesthetic improvement and technical durability. Our painters are trained in industrial surface preparation and coating systems, ensuring every project meets or exceeds manufacturer standards.
We serve the West Town, Ukrainian Village, Wicker Park, Bucktown, and surrounding neighborhoods, offering:
- Interior and exterior painting
- Cabinet refinishing
- Fence and porch painting
- Metal refinishing and coating
- Wallpaper installation and drywall repair
We take pride in delivering long-lasting results, not temporary fixes. Every detail — from grinding rust to applying precision coatings — contributes to a finish that lasts for years.
Maintaining Metal Surfaces After Refinishing
Even the best coating systems benefit from periodic care. Here’s how to extend the life of newly refinished metal:
- Wash surfaces annually with mild soap and water to remove pollutants and salt.
- Avoid power-washing close to joints or welds.
- Touch up chips or scratches promptly to prevent rust formation.
- Inspect metal elements every spring and fall for early signs of wear.
Proactive maintenance ensures your investment in professional refinishing continues to pay off.
Local Expertise in West Town and Ukrainian Village
Each neighborhood in Chicago has unique architectural styles — from historic greystones to converted industrial lofts. Our team understands how to work around brick façades, balconies, and fencing common to West Town and Ukrainian Village. We use scaffolding, lifts, and safety procedures designed for urban environments, minimizing disruption to residents and traffic.
This project exemplifies our approach: efficient work, quality materials, and respect for the property and neighborhood.
The Windy City Painters Difference
We combine craftsmanship with technical expertise. Every member of our crew is trained to recognize rust progression, coating compatibility, and environmental factors that affect finish quality. Our equipment allows us to handle both small residential fences and large commercial metal structures with equal precision.
From surface prep to final inspection, we maintain strict standards. The result is a durable, attractive coating that enhances and protects.
Ready to Restore Your Metalwork?
If your balcony, fence, or gate shows signs of peeling paint or rust, it’s time for a professional inspection. Windy City Painters provides free estimates and clear, detailed proposals. Our goal is to help Chicago property owners protect their investment with coatings designed for longevity.
📞 Call us at (773) 818-6331 or visit www.windypainters.com to schedule your estimate.
