Wrought iron fences can last a lifetime
or longer, making them one of the more durable fencing choices for
your home. Of course, no fence is completely immune to damage, so
proper maintenance is a must.
1. Seal the Fence
Iron is one of the more durable fence
choices as long as you protect the metal from oxygen exposure, which
is what leads to rust. Although the paint job helps with rust
prevention, it may not be enough.
Wax Sealer
New fences are often sealed with a coat
of protective wax. These waxes create a barrier that water and oxygen
can't get through. Further, much like car wax, iron fence waxes add
luster to the finish. Unfortunately, waxes do wear off over time, so
reapplication may be necessary every year or two.
Metal Sealants
A longer-lasting alternative to wax is
metal sealants. Sealants can do more than just prevent moisture from
reaching the iron; many of them contain UV blockers that also help
prevent sun fading of your fence color. Sealants can be integrated
into the metal paint used on the fence, or they can be applied as a
clear topcoat over a painted fence.
Unlike waxes, sealants tend to last
nearly as long as a paint job, so you likely won't need to reapply a
metal sealant until it is time to repaint the fence.
2. Plant Carefully
Vines growing on a fence or flowers
planted along the fence line can soften the appearance of your iron
fence and further bring out its beauty. Care must be taken to avoid
damage, though, as plants and their maintenance can sometimes lead to
problems.
Fence-Friendly Plants
Opt for annual vines, shrubs, or
flowers if the plants will be in actual contact with the fence.
Blackeyed Susan or morning glory vines, for example, die back each
year so you can easily access and maintain the fence between growing
seasons.
The problem with woody perennial plants
is that they grow over the fence where they can trap moisture and
wear off paint. Further, since the plants don't die back, damage can
go unnoticed until the fence is badly rusted.
Maintenance Issues
Plants that grow too close to the fence
can lead to maintenance problems. For example, trying to mow the lawn
or cut it back with a weed trimmer right up against the fence can
cause damage to paint and sealer on the iron pickets, which can lead
to rust.
Either leave a buffer zone between
perennials and the fence to allow for careful maintenance, or avoid
using tools that could damage the fence's finish too closely to the
pickets.
3. Guard Against Rust
Rust is the main enemy of wrought iron.
Fortunately, the layer of paint and sealant over the metal protects
it from the water and oxygen exposure necessary for rust to form.
Fence Cleaning
Dirt itself won't typically harm your
fence, but it can hide damages where rust could be lurking.
Fortunately, you don't need to deep-clean the whole fence, as a hose
will rinse off most dirt and debris. You can use a mild detergent to
remove more stubborn dirt, like acidic bird droppings or sticky plant
sap.
Make a habit of cleaning the fence and
inspecting it for signs of damage or rust at least once a season.
Rust Removal
Prompt action is required if you do
find a small pocket of rust. Use a metal brush to remove the rust and
discoloration, then wash and dry the damaged spot thoroughly. You
want no signs of moisture or rust to remain. Once the fence is clean,
you can apply touchup paint and a fresh coat of sealant. If there are
multiple spots with rust or flaking paint, sand and repaint the
entire fence.
For more help with your wrought iron
fence, contact Capitol
City Iron Works.
