How To Remove Rust From Fire Pit Glass

One thing that is inevitable in life, besides having to pay your taxes, is that the nice things we have, get dirty and need cleaning. It’s a chore but a chore that keeps our belongings functional and looking good. On top of a good clean to keep our Fire Pits looking and working in tip-top condition is the added problem of rust.

Being exposed to both the elements and dramatic temperature changes will both have an impact on the rusting of your outdoor Fire Pit. So should you eagerly return to your Fire Pit as the summer months approach only to find it looking rather sorry and worse for wear, don’t despair! Here at Flames Stuff we will guide you through a thorough rust removal process and get your old friend ready for more balmy summer evenings making garden memories.

There are various solutions to remove rust from both your Fire Pit and the glass. These include both store-bought products and more natural solutions. Mixed 50/50 with water, vinegar is understood to be the most effective treatment for removing rust from glass.

What are the different types of Rust?

Rust is an iron oxide, it is reddy-brown in color and happens when the iron is exposed to oxygen and moisture. Rust usually happens over time but there are various factors that can quicken the process such as the environment, temperature changes, and humidity. Left untreated rust will eventually eat away at your Fire Pit creating holes and weak spots and ultimately rendering it unusable.

There are various types of rust which, without getting too scientific, we have defined by their color:

• Yellow Rust: Yellow rust occurs when high moisture is present and is most often found near sinks, bathtubs, or where there is any large amount of standing water.
• Red Rust: Red rust is the most common type of rust and happens when there are high oxygen levels coupled with water exposure. You are most likely to find red rust on your fire pit.
• Brown Rust: Brown rust often forms in concentrated zones of the material rather than the complete surface. It does not need much moisture to oxidize.
• Black rust: Black rust forms when there is limited exposure to oxygen. Black rust is the least common type of rust and takes the longest to form.

What removes Rust stains from Glass?

There are a plethora of rust removal solutions from chemical-based, store-bought products to natural remedies that you will most likely find in your kitchen cupboards. Whichever solution you chose it is important to take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and any surrounding surfaces.

Natural Remedies

Many will advocate that natural remedies are always the best course of action for reasons ranging from cost to environmental awareness. However, in the case of rusty glass, particularly in your Fire Pit research has shown that natural really is the best.

The most popular and effective natural remedies for rusty fire glass are:

1. 50/50 water and vinegar solution: Vinegar is naturally acidic and therefore works well to dissolve the rust on your glass surface. Ensure that your surface is cleaner thoroughly both before and after using the vinegar solution.
2. Baking Soda and water: Whilst this is another effective answer to removing rust using white vinegar and baking soda also works extremely well. You need a mix that forms a thin paste. Apply and leave it to work its magic for at least 30 minutes before using a soft bristled brush to scrub away the now-dissolved rust. Clean away any residue before thoroughly drying the surface.
3. Lemon juice & salt: This homemade solution, when applied to affected areas can revitalize your Fire Pit glass wonderfully. Be careful to not leave the mixture for too long as this can have the reverse effect and cause further damage.
4. Cola: Whether you be Pepsi or a Coke advocate the levels of phosphoric acid contained in the soda can work wonders on your rust spots.

Rust Removal Products

Chemical-based rust removal products are readily available in your local hardware store, Walmart, and even online. Always be aware that chemicals can cause burns and damage to other surfaces. To achieve the best results, apply the following steps:

1. Always read the instructions that come with your bought product and follow them carefully.
2. The best place to use these chemical-based products is outside or in a well-ventilated area.
3. Ensure that the surface area of your Fire Pit is clean, you can use steel wool to get the best results from the metal area and warp soapy water for the glass.
4. Wear gloves and any other necessary protective clothing or eyewear to protect your skin, eyes, and clothes from any toxic spills or splashes.
5. Protect any surfaces around where you are working with dust sheets or alternatives.

How to prevent Rust

As always here at Flame Stuff we like to focus on prevention alongside the cure. Whilst there are many solutions to rust spots on your Fire Pit, we also advise the following to limit any damage:

1. Keep your Fire Pit covered when not in use.
2. Store safely in a dry and moisture-free area over the winter months
3. Clean it regularly taking as much care to ensure that it is completely dry too.
4. Inspect for rust spots at frequent intervals. The sooner you find them, the sooner you can deal with them and prevent any further spread.

In Summary

Whilst you can take steps to minimize wear and tear on your Fire Pit and its glass both during general usage and more specifically over periods when it is not in use there are many effective treatments should the inevitable rust spots appear.

We vote for natural remedies all the way but there is also a multitude of readily available products available to buy over the counter.

Look after your Fire Pit and your Fire Pit will look after you. Keep those rust spots at bay with both prevention and cure to ensure their longevity and ability to continue being that wonderful focal point in your yard for both cozy romantic evenings and spectacular hosting events.