Expert: Dave Coil - 9/6/2005

Question
Dave,

Here's a novel question!  There is a metal bar that runs under the bricks at the top of each window and door opening.  It measures 1/4" thick by 1 1/4" wide (that can be seen), by the length of the window or door.  It's purpose appears to be to span the door or window space to allow the row of bricks to continue over it.

All these bars have a fairly heavy coat of rust on them (the house is 8 yrs old). Question: do I need to scrape and paint these bars to prevent further rusting, or can they be safely left alone?

Many thanks in advance for your help; I really appreciate it!

Cordially,
Bob

Answer
Do your best to remove the rust.  It is similar to mold in that it grows with moisture.   Rust eats metal.  Scrape, sand, or whatever to remove the rust.   If you can wipe it down with lacquer thinner or mineral spirits and then paint with oil base paint....you save the metal.