3. Tin, Rust, and Other Bothersome Things

Flat and Embossed tin that is rusted can be refurbished in several ways:

Wire wheels on an electric drill, Sandpaper, wire brushes, etc. followed by steel wool. If the rust is only in small areas on flat tin and corners etc. it is best to just remove the surface rust to a matte finished steel appearance with the above-mentioned tools and paint on a clear coat to protect it.

If your tin looks like it has been submerged in water for a while you might want to consider other more drastic measures. A product that is found in Auto parts stores called EXTEND RUST TREATMENT is useful to kill off rust and turn it into a black paint-ready surface. After treating rusty tin with EXTEND prime paint with any primer made for steel and then paint satin black.

Any flat tin that is rusted through will need to be replaced with new tin or aluminum sheet metal. Just cut to fit and nail on. After priming and painting, it will not be noticed. Embossed tin that is damaged or rusted beyond recognition can be replaced also, however, the pattern might be hard to match.