Iron Gate and Fences

An iron fence or gate is an attractive addition to any property. But in order to keep your fences and gates looking good, they'll require maintenance. To ensure that your iron gates and fences always look beautiful, keep these maintenance tips in mind.

Here are the tips to care your iron gate and fences:
1. Take protective measures. Wrought iron fences can rust when they are exposed to elements such as rain and humidity. While this is less of a problem in some states like Arizona than in some other climates, it is still smart to take steps to prevent damage. You can apply a protective coat of wax to your fence to ward off rust, or simply cover your fencing with a tarp during the occasional rainstorm. If your wrought iron fence is near a pool, rust is also more likely to develop, so applying a protective sealant (which can be purchased at any hardware store) may be a good idea.
2. Paint your fence and gate. Painting your wrought iron fence and gate will also help protect them from damage. Paint creates a barrier between the iron and the air, minimizing oxidation and reducing the likelihood that rust will develop. In addition, a fresh coat of paint can make your fences and gates even more attractive.
3. Clean your fence. You can clean dirty wrought iron fences and gates with a mixture of warm water and dish detergent. After cleaning away dirt and rust spots (use a toothbrush to get to hard-to-reach areas) rinse the fencing with water. Then, let the fencing dry completely. Cleaning your fencing will keep your wrought iron looking great and make it easier to spot any potential problems.
4. Inspect your iron fence regularly. You should regularly inspect your iron gates and fences to identify any areas in need of repair. Look for signs of rust, loose or unstable footings, cracks, or other damage. If the fence has been painted, look for chips in the paint. Then, take steps to repair whatever damage you find. When noticed right away, most wrought iron fence problems can be easily fixed.
5. Repair rust spots. If a small area of your fence has begun to rust, you can take steps to minimize the damage. Use a sandpaper or steel wool to remove the rust, then stop the corrosion by applying wax. Touching up your fence's paint job can also minimize the appearance of rust. However, if your fence is severely rusted, you may need to call a company that specializes in repairing wrought iron fences.
6. Fix bent sections. It's possible that an accident could bend a part of your wrought iron fence. If this happens to your fence, you may be able to fix it yourself. Use a blowtorch to heat the bent sections of the fence and then hammer them back into place.

As always, use caution when working with tools, and consider calling a professional fence repair company if the damage is severe.