Having a wrought iron fence in your yard can be such a classic feature. They seamlessly represent elegance and work to give your exterior an overall sense of sophistication. The thing about wrought iron fences, though, is that with time, they can develop rust and become pitted, and the colour fades.
Fortunately for us, though, you can very easily paint your wrought iron fence! In just a few easy steps, you can take it from black, aged, and rusted to practically brand new again. And maybe it’s time to give it some personality too. There are all sorts of colour options out there for wrought iron fences. Let’s explore the best way to paint wrought iron fences!
Benefits of Painting Your Wrought Iron Fence
Before diving into the painting process, let’s explore the benefits of this crucial maintenance task:
- Protection: A fresh coat of paint acts as a barrier, protecting the wrought iron from moisture that can cause rust and corrosion.
- Aesthetics: Fresh paint not only revives the look of your fence but also enhances your property’s curb appeal.
- Longevity: Regularly painting your wrought iron fence prevents costly repairs or replacements resulting from corrosion or rust damage.
Getting Ready to Paint
First, before any of the prep that’s involved, you have to pick out your colour. A lot of people either go black or even white with their wrought iron fence, but maybe it’s time to go more contemporary. It might be fun without going too bold to choose a nice teal like Spotswood Teal. Another cool option is to go a bit more golden with your wrought iron fence colour with Gettysburgh Gold. It can be a really fun idea to add some punch to your yard by incorporating colour on your wrought iron fence.
Besides choosing your colour, there are some other things to consider. Firstly, it’s always best to try and avoid super hot and humid days when you’re painting wrought iron. Also, it’s not a good idea if it’s super cold out either. It’s probably best to think about this fence revamp either in the spring or fall months. Also, be sure to put some drop cloths down in order to protect the rest of the yard or porch from paint splatter.
Get Rid of the Rust and Faded Colour
One crucial step before you paint your wrought iron fence is to get rid of all the rust and old paint. One thing that’s really nice is that you don’t usually need harsh chemicals to clean your wrought iron fence. You can give it a decent cleaning with a solution of 50/50 water and vinegar. If there’s any mildew hanging around on your wrought iron fence, simply put a little bleach with water and give it a scrub.
In order to remove the rust, old paint, and any little sharp bits, you can simply use a stiff wire brush, 150-grit sandpaper, or sponge to get the job done. You can even use a metal scraper if you have one. Just be sure to wear a mask and goggles to protect yourself. If you have a wrought iron fence that’s quite old and the rust is stubborn, simply use a rust remover. Evapo-Rust is a nice choice because it’s non-toxic and biodegradable.
Should You Spray Paint Your Wrought Iron Fence?
This is one question that comes up time and time again — what is the best way to paint? The thing is, though, that it’s basically whatever you’re comfortable with using, as you can spray paint wrought iron fences or use a paintbrush. It’s certainly easier and less time-consuming to use spray paint. Using spray paint allows you to get into all of the little grooves of your wrought iron fence that a paintbrush can miss, or it simply takes a lot of extra time. Spray paint also provides a very smooth finish.
One very important step in this whole process is to use a primer prior to painting. And you want to be sure to use a primer that is specifically made for metals. Also, it’s usually best to use oil-based paint when it comes to wrought iron fence material as well. It will hold up a lot longer and simply adhere to the iron surface in a more satisfactory manner, too. The great thing is that you can use a spray primer as well to get the job done well.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting a Wrought Iron Fence
Materials and Tools Needed
To paint a wrought iron fence, gather the following materials and tools:
• Wire brush
• Sandpaper (medium-grit and fine-grit)
• Primer (rust-inhibiting and metal-friendly)
• Paint (rust-inhibiting and metal-friendly)
• Paintbrushes or paint sprayers
• Protective gear: gloves, goggles, and mask
• Drop cloths or tarps
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
Lay down drop cloths or tarps around the fence to prevent paint droplets from staining the ground or nearby surfaces.
Step 2: Inspect the Fence
Walk along the fence to identify any areas that need repairs or replacements, such as broken or bent components. Address these issues before proceeding with painting.
Step 3: Remove Rust and Old Paint
Using a wire brush, scrub the entire surface of the wrought iron fence to remove any loose paint, rust, or dirt. Follow up with medium-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining paint flakes and smooth the surface. Finally, use fine-grit sandpaper to create a perfect surface for primer and paint adhesion.
Step 4: Clean the Fence
After sanding, use a damp cloth to wipe the fence clean. Alternatively, you can use a garden hose to rinse the fence, ensuring all the dust and debris are removed. Allow the fence to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Apply Primer
Apply a metal-friendly, rust-inhibiting primer with a paintbrush or paint sprayer. This layer acts as a protective barrier that prevents water from reaching the wrought iron, preventing future rust and corrosion. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Paint the Fence
Choose a high-quality, rust-inhibiting metal paint in your desired colour. Spray or brush wrought iron with an even coat of paint, ensuring that you cover every nook and cranny of the wrought iron fence. Allow the paint to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then apply a second coat if needed for complete coverage and added protection.
Step 7: Clean Up
Once the paint is dry, carefully remove the drop cloths or tarps from the work area and clean your tools.
Tips for Painting Wrought Iron Fences
Here are some tips to ensure a successful painting project:
- Choose the Right Weather: Schedule your painting project on a day that is dry, sunny, and has a moderate temperature. This ensures optimal drying and curing conditions for the paint.
- Use Quality Paint: Choose high-quality, rust-resistant, and metal-friendly paint for long-lasting results.
- Spray paint wrought iron fence: A paint sprayer can provide faster, more consistent coverage than a paintbrush, especially for intricate or ornate wrought iron fences.
FINAL THOUGHTS
While painting a wrought iron fence can seem like a daunting task, with the right preparation, tools, and step-by-step guidance, it can be a rewarding DIY project. However, we understand that not everyone has the time or prefers to leave such tasks to the professionals.
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If you’re pressed for time or simply prefer a professional touch, consider enlisting the experts at Home Painters Toronto. With our wealth of experience and expertise in painting and restorations, you can trust us to deliver stellar results, transforming your worn-out wrought iron fence into a stunning showcase of timeless elegance.
Remember, a beautifully maintained wrought iron fence not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also reinforces its security. So, don’t let time or skill constraints stand in your way – call the professionals, sit back, and look forward to a splendidly fresh and revitalized wrought iron fence. Please give us a call at 416-494-9095, or email us at Brian@HomePaintersToronto.com. Also, don’t forget to follow us on all our social channels below as well!
