Daily maintenance of wrought iron and metal products
Six simple habits that keep powder-coated and galvanized metal looking good and rust-free for years.
What you need
- Mild soap and soft cloth
- Clean water
- Matching touch-up paint and primer
- Grease for hinges and locks
Steps
- 1
Clean regularly
Wash with mild soap and a soft cloth every few months. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh solvents that scratch the coating.
- 2
Inspect the coating
Check surfaces twice a year for chips, scratches or bubbling, especially at welds and edges where coating is thinnest.
- 3
Touch up damage promptly
Sand the spot lightly, apply anti-rust primer, then the matching top coat. Small repairs prevent spread.
- 4
Care for moving parts
Grease hinges, latches and locks annually so gates and doors operate smoothly and hardware does not seize.
- 5
Manage water and drainage
Keep surfaces dry; avoid standing water on sills and bases. Good drainage slows any coating failure.
- 6
Extra care in coastal areas
Rinse salt spray off railings and gates periodically, and plan a re-coat cycle every few years to extend service life.