An ornamental iron fence can add beauty and security to any commercial property. However, iron fencing is prone to rust and requires regular maintenance. Here are a few tips for a rust-free fence.
Remove rust quickly
Every few weeks, walk the length of your fence to check for nicks, scratches and rust spots. If left untreated, even a small amount of rust can turn into a major problem.
Remove any rust right away using sandpaper, steel wool or a wire brush. You may need to use a power disc sander on difficult areas. You can also find commercial rust cleaners and dissolvers at your local hardware store.
Furthermore, always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses when handling chemicals and power tools.
Wash and dry your fence
After you’ve buffed out the rust, wash the affected area with mineral spirits or warm water and a mild detergent. This will get rid of any debris, dust or dirt. You can use a toothbrush to clean any hard-to-reach areas. Then, thoroughly rinse the fence with clean water.
Your fence must be bone dry to prevent the rust from coming back. To do so, dry the area with a clean microfibre cloth. You can also use a blow dryer or portable fan.
Apply primer and paint
Apply a coat of oil-based anti-corrosion primer to the affected area. You must do this immediately after washing and drying your fence because rust can creep back onto exposed iron in just a few hours.
After the primer has dried, apply at least two coats of oil-based rust-resistant paint. This will protect your fence from developing rust in the future. If you’re using spray paint, you may need as many as four coats to create an effective protective barrier.
Choose a rust-resistant material
If you don’t have the time or energy to maintain an iron fence, you may want to purchase a fence made of rust-resistant material. For example, chain-link fencing is made of galvanized steel which requires virtually no maintenance and will last many years. Additionally, chain-link fencing is less expensive than other fence materials. You can also quickly and easily make any necessary repairs.
If you need help choosing a fence for your property, the team at City Fence Inc. would be happy to help.
Commercial and industrial fencing in the GTA
At City Fence Inc., we specialize in ornamental wrought-iron and chain-link fencing for commercial and industrial customers in the Greater Toronto Area. We also offer fencing repair and maintenance services. Contact us today to ask about our chain link fence prices or get a free quote.