Ever since corrugated metal has come indoors as a design element, a touch of rust may add character to the Shabby Chic style or country theme in a home. If you cannot wait until the weather rusts your corrugated metal through exposure, it's pretty simple to speed the process -- as long as the metal contains iron, tin or iron alloys. Wear protective gloves when working with corrugated metal to avoid cuts.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Salt
Step 1
Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Put on safety goggles and gloves.
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Step 2
Fill a bucket with water and add enough liquid degreasing dishwasher detergent to create suds.
Step 3
Clean the corrugated metal with the solution to remove all dirt, grease or grime. Rinse it clean and wipe it dry or let it air dry. Use a wire brush that can scratch up the surface of new corrugated metal to help it rust better.
Step 4
Pour a generous portion of hydrogen peroxide into the spray bottle.
Step 5
Spray the cleaned corrugated metal with the peroxide as it lays on a flat surface.
Step 6
Sprinkle the table salt on the metal while the hydrogen peroxide is wet. Cover the hydrogen peroxide with a thin coat of salt so it interacts with the hydrogen peroxide. As you sprinkle the salt, you can see it begin to work with the hydrogen peroxide.
Step 7
Rub the item with a rag to remove the salt after it has dried. Repeat Step 4 through 6 until you achieve the rusted look you want.
Step 8
Apply a sealing coat if you don't want the rust to rub off, such as a polyurethane or acrylic spray.
White Vinegar and Bleach
Step 1
Mix 1 part of vinegar to 2 parts of bleach in a bucket.
Step 2
Pour or spray the solution onto the corrugated metal.
Step 3
Let the corrugated metal air dry. Wipe off excess rust if desired.
Step 4
Spray the item with an acrylic high-gloss or matte sealer based on your preferences.