old chair with rusty screws

clkharr | Posted in Wood and Materials on November 30, 2008 11:07am

I am in the process of restoring an old folding chair that spent some time outdoors. The wood screws have rusted and according to the size chart the screws are a number 9. Does any have any idea on how to remove the rust so they can be re-used? My other alternative is to use number 9 stainless steel screws, however I have not been able to find any. My intention is to use the chairs out on the deck.

Replies

gstilwell | Dec 01, 2008 04:27am | #1
If they rusted once, they'll do it again. Use at least 304 stainless, but a better choice would be Philips Deckmate Screws. They have a coating that will resist the elements wonderfully. Used them on my PT deck built 10 yrs ago, and still no corrosion.

Gary
kreuzie | Dec 01, 2008 04:54am | #2
What type of wood screws? Check out McFeeley's - they have stainless wood screws.

kreuzie
Pascanale | Dec 01, 2008 05:58am | #3
I wouldn't go to the futile effort of cleaning the rust of the screws
because the corrosion causes them to lose some of their thread edges and therefore their hold. Likewise, the holes probably will be looser too so don't worry about exactly matching what you take out--just
what you need to fasten it properly. As suggested, McFeeleys is
probably the best place to start and heed the stainless steel advice
too.
forestgirl | Dec 01, 2008 08:02am | #4
If, despite the advice given above, you still want to de-rust, pick up some EvapoRust at AutoZone. Soak the screws over night, they'll be completely rust-free the next day. Rinse with water and wipe with a paper towel to get the remaining oxidized stuff off (kind-of black).

ER's a little pricey at AutoZone, but you can get it quick and give it a try. Much better prices per unit are available on the internet.

forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)