Home Garden

How to Rust Corrugated Metal

Rusting corrugated metal can add a unique look to a roof and other corrugated metal items. Over time, unsealed corrugated metal exposed to moisture and outdoor elements will rust on its own. If the natural rusting process is not fast enough for your liking, corrugated metal items can be made to rust more quickly with the use of muriatic acid, which can be found at most home and garden as well as hardware stores.

Things You'll Need

  • Muriatic acid
  • Rubber gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Garden hose
  • Glass dish
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wear gloves and safety glasses.

    • 2

      Dilute the muriatic acid, mixing one part acid with 10 parts of water; avoid splashing.

    • 3

      Slowly pour the muriatic acid and water mixture onto the corrugated metal. A bubbling reaction indicates the solution is strong enough.

    • 4

      Flush the metal thoroughly with clean water sprayed from a water hose when the desired rust effect is achieved.