Mirror Backing Paint

[Repete]

Hi, I am restoring an old oak framed oval mirror & have found what looks like Red Lead painted over the silvering. It has turned to 'dust', vacuums away easily & looks as if it would wash off. I would appreciate any tips to deal with it as the silver is in very good condition. Peter

[Peter57]

Peter,
mirrors are backed with an anti corrosive coating that is full of lead (about 6%). Make sure you be careful and treat it with caution. The paints are actually cured with heat (about 120C) for a short time.

It's really important to ensure that you replace it with an alkyd (oil based) paint. Don't use water based or any other paint as they can shrink and rip the silver off the glass.

I used to make the paint and chemicals for mirror making - that's how I know about it.

cheers,
Peter

[Repete]

Peter,
mirrors are backed with an anti corrosive coating that is full of lead (about 6%). Make sure you be careful and treat it with caution. The paints are actually cured with heat (about 120C) for a short time.

It's really important to ensure that you replace it with an alkyd (oil based) paint. Don't use water based or any other paint as they can shrink and rip the silver off the glass.

I used to make the paint and chemicals for mirror making - that's how I know about it.

cheers,
Peter
Peter, I really appreciate your reply. Should I try to remove all of the paint or just spray it with a quick dry enamel? Pete

[Xanthorrhoeas]

I don't know how old your mirror is but one aspect to consider if this is an antique mirror is that its value is decreased significantly if it is re-silvered or the mirror replaced. If the silver is perfect and you are merely repairing/replacing the rear coating that may not be an issue. You may also not be concerned with antique value, only usefulness and appearance - but thought that you should know.

I have a large, antique Blackwood overmantle mirror that has some very imperfect mirror sections in it - but is the more valuable for it, strangely enough. It may be because of rarity value as so many mirrors had the mirror glass replaced.
David

[Peter57]

I'd just seal it in with some alkyd. Quick drying enamel will probably work, but just be careful of the solvents in them. It should be ok, but spray a small corner first to check for paint damage.
If the antique is valuable, consult a professional mirror restorer.

[Repete]

Thanks Peter & David, I appreciate both responses. The mirror is from an old dresser & has sentimental value to SWMBO. Peter