My Decorative Tin Ceiling Is Rusting. Help!

By OHJ Editorial Staff

Q: In one corner of my living room, the decorative tin ceiling (egg-and-dart pattern) is rusting. I have fixed the source of the water and have tried to repair the deteriorated spots using several methods but without success. What do you recommend?

A: If the sheet steel that is the base of your 'tin' ceiling hasn't rusted completely through, your best bet is to gently remove the rust with fine steel wool or an emery cloth. Once the metal is clean, you should apply a coat of rust-inhibiting primer and paint the entire ceiling with an oil-based paint. If the rust has gone right through the metal, your best option is to replace the damaged sections with salvaged or reproduction panels. Do not fill gaps with metal-patching material because reconstructing the detail is too difficult, but small gaps can be sealed with latex caulk.

Luckily, the egg-and-dart pattern you have was very common and is still manufactured, so you should be able to find a good match. Several companies still sell metal ceiling panels made from the old patterns. Check the online edition of OHJ's Restoration Directory for a complete list.

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