Rust is more than just a visual problem. When railings are not galvanized the result is a product that rusts after a few years of use. Rusted railing is not just an eye sore, it is unsafe. When metal is rusted it loses it structural integrity, resulting in a product that will not perform to manufactures specification. Read on to learn more.

Inspecting

To assure a safe environment while working at heights, be sure to annually inspect railings for rust. Pay particular attention to the joints where welds are made. If the joint is rusty, it may no longer be structural.

Preventing

The railing should be galvanized. If the railing is merely painted or powder coated, the paint will chip and the metal will rust. If the railing is galvanized, the metal has been treated to resist rust. Avoid railing that is welded. Even if your pipe is galvanized, welding requires that the galvanization be removed. Most of the time on a welded railing, the joints begin to rust long before the main sections of pipe. To avoid welding, build a railing based on pipe fittings. Fittings provide a connection as strong as a weld, but the galvanization is not broken, resulting in a longer lasting railing. Build with aluminum. Aluminum is great for moisture rich environments. It will not rust and it provides a great look. You’ll pay extra for aluminum, but if you are looking to the long term the results will be worth the cost. Add powder coating for an added level of protection. Standard paint usually chips off easily. Powder coating is a baked on paint that provides a protective coating over the entire surface of the metal. Powder coating can usually be done in any  color and adds longevity and aesthetic value to the railing. Be sure that the metal underneath is galvanized to prevent rusting if the paint coating should chip.

Installing wrought iron fences takes some work, tools, and knowledge and in this post we will show you how to go about doing it. It may make an excellent weekend DIY project! Read on to learn more!

1. Checking Building Codes

Some neighborhoods will have building codes that regulate the type, placement, and height of fencing.  This is especially true if you live in an HOA.  This planning may save you many problems further down the line.

2. Measuring And Planning

You must then decide where your new fence will go, how tall it will be, and what style you prefer.  This is an ideal time to call to have underground utility lines flagged so you know your post holes will not be in the wrong place.

3. Gathering Materials And Tools

In addition to the wrought iron posts, panels, and gates you will need some supplies to install a wrought iron fence.  These materials include: fasteners, post hole diggers, shovels, a level, tape measure, stakes, string, screwdrivers, wheelbarrow, gravel, and fast setting concrete.

4. Setting Outline With Stakes

Set stakes to help ensure you’ve got the right dimensions and angles for your new fence.  Drive the stakes at the corners and where it changes direction.  At each of these stakes wrap and tightly stretch  your string to show where the fence will sit.

5. Digging Post Holes

Dig post holes at corners, on both sides of fence panels, and ending points.  Most post holes should be about 2 feet deep and 6 inches in width.  Before adding your quick set concrete fill the bottom of your post holes with about 2 inches of gravel.  With all of your post holes dug mix your concrete in your wheelbarrow.  Don’t make your concrete too wet as it needs to help keep your posts standing straight in the holes.

6. Installing Fence Posts

First put the post in the post hole.  Next add the concrete to the hole.  Stop pouring your concrete when it’s about 4 inches from the top of the hole.  This is done for all of the posts and then a worker uses a level to ensure the posts are straight and set in line with the rest of the fencing. Once the posts are straight and the concrete is holding them up the top 4 inches in the hole is filled loosely with dirt.  Wait about a week for the concrete to set before moving on to installing your wrought iron panels.

7. Installing Panels

Wrought iron fencing consists of the posts you’ve already installed and panels that fit into them.  The panels are attached to the posts using screws or bolts.  Line up the panel brackets with the posts and attach the top bracket, then the bottom bracket. Do this for all of the fence panels.

8. Hanging Gates

The last step in installing your wrought iron fence is to hang your wrought iron gate.  Most times this will be a gate made for pedestrians to walk through.  If it is a driveway gate you’ll likely need to have the help of professional installers to help get it installed correctly.  This is especially true if you’re installing an automated gate with a motor.

Cleaning Different Kinds Of Railings

Railings can be very beautiful regardless of the material they are made from but they need to be kept clean and be safe from a structural standpoint. Read on to learn how you can clean railings made from different materials.

Powder Coated Railings

Many-a-times railings are powder-coated to ensure that the underlying materials are safeguarded, making these railings tough, corrosion-free and highly durable. Use soapy water and sponge to clean your powder-coated railings. Ensure that the soap/detergent that you use does not contain chemicals that can damage the coating. If the application is mild and does not hurt your skin when you touch it, it is most likely usable. Test the application in an inconspicuous area of your railing and observe before spreading completely.

Aluminum Railings

Aluminum railings require virtually no upkeep. Use soapy water and a soft cloth to rinse away any dust stains on your railings. Hosing down the railings with a power-hose may be a good alternative. Always dab away the extra moisture with a soft cloth and leave it to air-dry. Railings around coastal areas may be exposed to an accumulation of abrasive salts. Similarly, railings installed on a high-rise balcony may be subject to bird droppings and dust. In such cases using an appropriate solvent or cleanser may do the trick. You can lacquer your aluminum railings using a coat of car wax or floor wax. This will make maintaining your railings an easier chore, especially when they are constantly exposed to the elements.

Stainless Steel Railings

Stainless steel are available in two kinds, polished and satin. Although stainless steel is largely corrosion-proof, some unsightly marks and stains may retard the appearance. Use distilled water to clean away the white marks on steel railings. And pat down with a soft cloth or newspaper. You may also use polishing cleansers to remove tougher marks and stains. Oil and grease stains may require the use of solvents, such as acetone or alcohol wipes. It is a good idea to always use gloves and protect your hands while applying the polish or solvents to your railings.

Brass Railings

There are both solid brass railings and the brass-plated railings. These two require significantly different approaches to maintenance. All brass tends to oxidize or tarnish fairly quickly. Use warm soapy water and sponge to clean and maintain your brass railings. If the stains are tough, use a stronger variety of soap, like dishwashing soap. Using conventional polish, like Brasso, may work for solid brass. But avoid using polish on plated-brass at all costs. The brass polish will cut through the brass and leave the underlying material (usually steel) exposed.

Maintenance is essential to keep your wrought iron gate to keep looking its best.  Read on to learn more.

Cleaning

When your wrought iron gate gets dirty, the best way to clean it is to apply a mild soap and water mixture using a soft cloth. Afterward, rinse it with clean water. Avoid using abrasive products on the gate, as they can strip away the outer finish which helps prevent rust.

Getting Rid Of Rust

Scrub with steel wool to remove all the corrosion you can, then apply a mixture of vinegar and water to the area to eliminate the rest and prevent more from forming.

Finishing

You’ll need to cover it again with a rust-resistant finish or wax. For best results, the product should be reapplied regularly. You might also choose to paint your iron gate; in this case, use an outdoor primer before you apply the paint to make it last longer. Look for paints made specifically for metal surfaces; these products can be applied with a brush or a spray nozzle for even coverage.

Another Way To Clean

Mix a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Wash the piece with a sponge or power-wash using the mixture. For intricate pieces, use a small nylon scrubbing brush to tackle every crevice. Rinse the surface thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.

Painting

Choose a spray primer with rust-proof properties for easier application. Apply at least two coats for maximum protection. After the gate is prepared, touch it up with paint. Enamel paint is best-suited for iron. Like you did with the primer, apply at least two coats of spray paint. Your wrought iron gate will look as good as new once it dries.

Source: https://nearsay.com/c/882012/184979/3-ways-to-revamp-an-older-wrought-iron-gate