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

Care and Maintenance of your Iron Fence

  • Take protective measures. Wrought iron fences can rust when they are exposed to elements such as rain and humidity. You can apply a protective coat of wax to your fence to ward off rust. 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.
  • Clean your fence. You can clean your fence and gates with a mixture of warm water and dish detergent. After cleaning away dirt (brush hard-to-reach areas), rinse the fence with water. Then, let the fence dry completely. Cleaning your fence will keep your wrought iron looking great and make it easier to spot any potential problems.
  • Use caution with the lawn trimmer (weed eater). Over time, that continuous “whacking” of the base of your iron post will cause damage.
  • Inspect your 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.
  • Repair rust spots. If a small area of your fence has begun to rust, you can take steps to minimize the damage. Use sandpaper or steel wool to remove the rust, then stop the corrosion by applying wax or a sealant. Touching up your fence’s paint job can also minimize the appearance of rust.
  • 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. If you are uneasy or unsure about a repair, feel free to call Buzz Custom Fence.