How to Repair Wrought Iron Fencing
- 1). Turn a hose nozzle to the highest pressure setting. Wash all loose dirt and debris from the fence and let it dry completely.
- 2). Hold a steel-bristled brush firmly in one hand. Move the brush back and forth across the fence to remove large pieces of rust.
- 3). Change to a metal file. File the flat areas. Sand the rounded portions with coarse grit sandpaper. Wipe away all shaving particles and sanding dust with a damp rag.
- 4). Put on rubber gloves, protective eyewear and a mask. Spray phosphoric acid onto the wrought iron. Leave the acid on the surface overnight. The acid will convert invisible rust into a crust of iron phosphate. Brush away the iron phosphate with a steel-bristled brush.
- 5). Mix two-part metal patch compound according to the package instructions. You can buy patch compound at an automotive store. Choose an epoxy resin formula for best results. Pick up a small amount with a putty knife and spread it into small cracks in the iron. Smooth it out over the top of the iron to create a seamless patch. Let the compound dry completely.
- 6). Coat the fence with oil-based metal primer. Apply the primer with a disposable chip brush. Cover the entire fence with a light coat of the primer. Let the primer dry.
- 7). Paint the iron fence with oil-based metal paint. Start at the top of the fence and work downward. Apply a thin coat of paint with a good quality brush. Let the first coat dry to the touch, then apply a second coat.
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