Achieving a New Look: How to Refinish Your Cast Iron Sink with Step-by-Step Instructions

Reinvigorating cast iron sinks with a fresh coat of paint is the perfect way to make them look as good as new. It is no easy feat, however, since you must remove all old paint, rust and grime from the surface of the cast iron sink before you can apply primer and paint. Luckily, armed with the right materials and a bit of knowledge, you can refinish cast iron sinks quickly and easily.

The first step to refinish a cast iron sink is to remove all the rust, paint and grime from the surface. A chemical called trisodium phosphate can work wonders for this. Put on a breathing mask and some eye protection and work the chemical into the sink with a sponge or a scour pad. Once the sink is cleaned you must make sure all the rust is removed. Even the smallest trace of rust can make the refinishing job futile. Steel wool and diamond coated sanding pads are perfect materials to use here. For a more thorough job you can attach one of these to a drill or power sander.

Once the cast iron is free of all dirt, rust, and paint, it is time to begin painting. Make sure you use a waterproof paint that is oil-based. Using a dry brush, apply a thin layer of paint. Once the first layer of paint is dry, sand it down gently with 100-grit sandpaper or a sanding block. Wipe the sink with a cloth afterwards and then apply a second layer of paint. When the second layer is dry, sand it down again and wipe it clean. For the third and last layer of paint, make sure it is thick and evenly applied and be sure to wait for it to dry completely before you seal it. Using a sealing agent will protect the paint from wearing off in the future.

Refinishing cast iron sinks takes some time but with careful use of the right materials and techniques, you can make them look as good as new. Once you’re finished, be sure to wait a day or two before running water or placing items in the sink to ensure the paint has fully dried. With the right tools and adhesive, you’ll be able to restore your old cast iron sinks!