Removing Rust From Iron Fencing

Removing rust from an iron fence may not be an easy task to face. However, Diamond Fence is here to offer some quick tips when it comes to that.

This blog post will focus on wrought iron fencing.

Interesting fact 1: Wrought iron is an iron alloy with very low carbon content. Less than 0.08%. However, adding carbon to iron to make steel does make it stronger and tougher.

Interesting fact 2: the name wrought was given because the iron was hammered, rolled or otherwise worked while hot enough to expel molten slag.

Rusted fencing Melbourne

TIP #1: Neutralising the rust on your iron fencing

Rust forms when iron, oxygen, and moisture collide. So when you notice any rust on your iron fence, regardless of the size of the area covered in rust, you want to remove all the rust as fast and as much as possible. Why? Rust can corrode and pit the metal the longer it stays on its surface.

To remove rust, you can use chemical rust neutralisers.

What are rust neutralisers? They are chemicals that remove rust from metal surfaces, including iron and steel. Neutralisers seal rust and create a neutral surfacer that is ready for priming and painting.

If you do not have a chemical rust neutraliser, another option would be to use a mixture of lemon juice and vinegar (50-50) to rustproof the metal. How does it work? Acids found in these substances can remove rust as well. You will need to add the abrasive action from other ingredients. Baking soda or salt would do the work.

Corrosion & Metal Fencing

TIP #2: When preparing your iron fence for painting

When you have removed the rust from your iron fencing, you should cover it with a rust-inhibiting primer. That will act as a base coat. Why would you need a base coat for your iron fence? It will seal the metal from moisture and corrosion. Hence, preventing the formation of rust on your fence.

How Galvanic Corrosion Affects Metal Fencing?

TIP #3: When choosing the paint for your iron fence

When choosing the paint, do not focus only on the colour. Choose your fencing paint wisely. A good iron fencing paint should have rust-inhibiting properties. It should also be oil-based paint that is specifically designed for outdoor metal items. Moreover, two coats should be applied to your fencing.

One of the companies that provide high-quality paints is Delux. Being a part of the Australian paint and coatings manufacturing industry since 1933, they manufacture suitable paints for wrought iron fencing.

TIP #4: When choosing the paint for your iron fence

Our last tip is not about painting your rusty fence. However, it is to avoid this tedious job in the first place. Thus, maintenance of your wrought iron fencing should be on your agenda.

Every fence needs regular maintenance. It is essential for your iron fence to keep it strong, long-lasting and good-looking. When having your regular check-ups, look for signs of cracking, peeling or rusty spots. If any of the latter is found, you should fix them immediately to prevent further damage to your iron fence.