Maintaining A Wrought-Iron Fence: What You Need To Know
Posted on: 9 July 2020
When it comes to fencing materials, wrought-iron is one of the most durable and elegant options available. If you've recently purchased a home with an existing wrought-iron fence or if you're thinking about having one installed, you might be wondering what to expect in terms of maintenance. The good news is that wrought-iron fencing is relatively low-maintenance and can easily last for 20 years or more before needing to be replaced. Still, there are some basic care and maintenance steps that you'll want to make part of your routine.
Inspect It for Damage Regularly
At least once a year, take a walk around your wrought-iron fence and look for damage. One of the most common issues you may run across with a wrought-iron fence is that of rust and corrosion. As you walk around your fence, make note of areas with rust by marking them with a piece of blue painter's tape. You'll also want to check for other types of damage, such as bent posts; these are not common, but they can occur with hollow iron fencing.
Remove and Treat Rust as It Arises
Minor spots of rust on a wrought-iron fence can be sanded down with a simple piece of sandpaper or even steel wool. Once you've sanded the rust down, all you need to do is apply a rust-cleaning product to the area and scrub thoroughly. Then, rinse off the cleaner, allow the fence surface to dry, and apply a rust-resistant paint or primer to the affected area to prevent future spots from corroding.
Deep-Clean Your Fence Annually
Giving your wrought-iron fence a deep cleaning at least once a year will help to remove debris that could otherwise cause damage to your fence over time. And of course, a deep-clean will keep your fence looking great. The best way to clean a wrought-iron fence is to simply scrub it with warm, soapy water using a large deck brush. From there, rinse the entire fence down with a hose for a shiny look.
Don't Forget Your Gates and Latches
If your fence has any gates or latches, be sure to give these a little TLC, too. Lubricate all hinges, latches, and other moving parts at least once a year to keep them operating smoothly. And of course, if you run into any serious problems with your fence that need to be addressed, contact an experienced fencing company for further assistance.
To learn more about iron fences, contact a fence company.
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