How to Sand a Wrought Iron Fence
Replacing a wrought iron fence due to a rust problem can be expensive. A much cheaper option is to simply sand and remove the rust and then repaint. This method requires some elbow grease but does not take much expertise to be successful. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Bucket with soapy water and rag
- Small putty knife
- Wire bristle brush
- Heavy- and fine-grit sand paper designed for metal surfaces
- Lemon juice and white vinegar solution with rag
- Metal primer and paint
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Instructions
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Wash off the entire fence to remove any loose paint or rust pieces along with any built-up grease and dirt. A simple dishwashing detergent with warm water in a bucket will work well.
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Use a small putty knife to remove any loose paint and rust. If the paint is still sticking to the fence it is all right to leave it. If you do not remove all loose paint, though, it will compromise the final painting.
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Use heavy-grit sandpaper to sand the entire fence, removing any remaining loose rust and paint. You need to get down to the bare metal in areas where there was rust. Next, take the fine-grit sand paper and feather in areas where there is still paint on the fence. Smooth the paint out so there is not a sharp edge between the metal and the paint. Feathering is sanding heavily on the edge of the paint and then applying steadily lighter pressure as you move inward. If there is a sharp edge it will show when you repaint the fence and the final outcome will not look good.
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Wash the metal with some type of rust-removal product to get rid of all the rust you can't see. Rust is a little bit like a bacteria--if you do not get rid of all of it then it will just come back again. A good homemade option is a mixture of lemon juice and white vinegar. There are also commercial products available. Wipe the entire fence down with the lemon juice and vinegar mixture and let it sit for at least an hour. Follow by washing the fence with soapy water to remove the mixture and allow to dry completely.
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Paint the fence. Start with a primer that is formulated for metal surfaces. Apply evenly to the entire fence surface. Allow to dry at least four hours, or as long as instructed on the primer can. Follow with a paint that is also formulated for metal surfaces. Depending on coverage you may need more than one coat of paint. You should now be able to enjoy a beautiful fence for years to come.
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