Wrought Iron Railings Can Be Painted
Preparation
Failure to clean thoroughly prior can result in problems due to underlying rust. Begin by removing the larger chunks of rust and flaking paint from the fence with a wire brush. Sand the railing with medium-grit sandpaper to remove the remaining peeling paint. This also contributes to the creation of a good rough surface. After that, sweep the area and use soapy water to clean the railings. You can start setting up tarps and dropcloths, as well as attaching tape around the bottoms of the railing, after drying the metal with a clean, dry rag. Apply a rust-inhibitive primer now that your surface is ready. Allow one to three hours for the primer to dry after applying an even layer.
Painting
Begin applying exterior rust-inhibitive enamel paint once the surface is totally dry. Try to avoid using a single heavy coat of paint. Instead, use many light layers to get a more equal finish and avoid bubbling and subsequent flaking. A more typical color choice is black paint, however brighter metallic colors can provide a fascinating contrast to the surroundings. The most common finish is semi-gloss or gloss, but you can also choose with a flat or satin finish.
Preventing Rust
Metallic surfaces are more prone to rusting and chipping, especially when exposed to the elements. Fortunately, homeowners can take efforts to minimize the damage by taking preventative measures. Wrought iron fences should be washed twice a year with soapy water. Annually, clean the railings with a mixture of lemon juice and white vinegar, then buff any scratches or rust marks with steel wool. It’s possible that you’ll need to touch up a few spots with matching paint. You can also apply a coat of auto wax once it dries to help seal the rails against moisture. Iron railings rarely need to be sanded and repainted more than once every six years if they are properly maintained.