A Few Tips for Keeping Your Iron Fence and Gate in Good Repair
Posted on: 22 July 2016
An iron gate and fence are very classic and can help keep your property secure, as they can be difficult to scale and pointed finials at the top of the fence can also deter would-be intruders. In some cases, an iron gate and fence can even increase your home's overall property value. However, iron is prone to rust which can be very unsightly, and a rusted gate may refuse to open or close. Note a few tips for keeping your iron fence and gate in good repair and free of rust and other such damage.
Wash it
You may hesitate to wash your iron fence and gate because you don't want to expose it to water, but washing it can remove dirt that holds moisture against the surface of the fence and also remove small spots of rust before they can spread. For hand washing, use a mixture of water and dish detergent, or a detergent meant for iron fences if you're using a power washer. Be sure to get areas around the finials or bars where dirt may collect. Do the washing on a warm and sunny day so you can rinse the fence thoroughly and then have it dry more readily in the warm sunshine.
Fix bent sections quickly
Bends, dents, dings, and other such damage can easily allow rust to form and spread, as these areas expose untreated areas of metal to humidity and oxidation. It's good to inspect your fence every month or at least twice per year so you can fix any damaged sections quickly. Use a blowtorch to heat the section of fence that is damaged and hammer it back into place. If you're not comfortable with these tools, call a fence repairperson and have them handle the work for you.
Seal and coat
Wood fences aren't the only ones that need sealing and coating to be protected. Sealants meant for iron fences and gates should be applied every year, or as often as recommended by the manufacturer. Powder coating, which is the application of a color that goes on in powder rather than paint form, can also provide a layer of protection against the elements. This powder coating can also cover small bits of rust and other such corrosion and keep them sealed so they don't get the oxidation and moisture needed to spread. A good powder coating can also make your iron fence look fresh and new.
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