How to Repair a Metal Awning

Mix 1 tbsp. of dishwashing soap and a gallon of water in a bucket. Dip a scrub sponge into the mixture and remove all of the dirt from the awning. Rinse the metal with clean water.

Brush rust from the awning with a steel-bristled brush. Use the brush to also remove peeling paint and other debris.

Sand the metal thoroughly with medium-grit sandpaper. The sanding will remove the remaining rust and will also create texture on the metal. The texture will allow the primer to adhere.

Cut metal with metal shears to cover any holes in the awning. Set the patch metal over the hole and drill holes through the metal piece and the awning. Match the size of the drill bit to the size of the pop rivets. Spread caulk around the perimeter of the hole. Secure the metal patch plate to the awning with the pop rivets.

Brush on zinc chromate primer. Zinc chromate primer is rust-prohibitive and will create a good foundation layer for the paint. Apply enough primer to cover the metal without creating puddles. You can also use a foam roller to apply the primer. Allow the primer to dry for four hours.

Paint the awning with a good-quality metal paint. Prevent brush marks by using quick, even strokes and lifting the paintbrush before you run out of paint. Let the first coat dry. Apply two to three more thin coats of paint.