How to Maintain Iron Fences
A wrought-iron fence can lend to your home and property a variety of moods, from menacing to elegant and stately. Iron fencing is sturdy and will not mildew or rot like wood structures can over times. An iron fence is easy to care for, but does require regular maintenance, particularly after a wet winter. A run-down iron fence not only detracts from the attractiveness of your home, but can become a hazard to passersby as well. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Garden hose
- Wire brush
- Dish detergent
- Towels
- Paintbrush
- Primer
- Paint
- Propane torch
- Hammer
- Rust-free gate accessories
Instructions
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Rinse your iron fence with water from the garden house to remove dirt, mud and other debris that may have built up on the surface. Clear drainage areas near your fence to ensure the water will run free without pooling at the bottom of the structure. Constant exposure to excess moisture can produce rust.
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2
Remove rust and chipped paint flakes with a wire brush as soon as you notice them. Wrought-iron fences should be painted to avoid further damage.
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3
Wash the rusted portion of the fence with dish detergent and water; dish detergent is a non-ionic cleanser that won't interact with the rusted metal. Dry the fence with toweling or allow it to dry in the sun.
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Touch up rust areas of your fence with an oil-based primer and rust-proof paint. Oil-based products are compatible with metals and will reduce the need to repaint often.
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Fix bent sections of iron through the use of heat. Use a propane blow torch to heat the damaged sections and hammer them back into the proper shape.
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Choose rust-free hinging and other gate accessories for your wrought-iron fence. The gate is most likely a part of your iron fence that you use every day, and can become stuck open or shut if riddled with rust.
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References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
