How To Care For Wrought Iron Doors

24 August 2015
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Wrought iron doors are gorgeous and add a vintage element to any home. However, wrought iron doors can be susceptible to rust, so it's important to follow a care regimen specifically for these doors. Taking the time to maintain your door properly will keep your door looking beautiful for years to come.

Cleaning Wrought Iron Doors

Basic cleaning is at the heart of wrought iron door care. Rust is a key weakness of wrought iron doors, and it forms when the iron of the door comes into contact with oxygen and moisture. So, how can you keep rust off your door? Some wrought iron doors come with a finish to keep them beautiful and rust free for years. However, abrasive scrubbers, like steel wool, can damage that finish.

Thorough and regular cleaning is an alternative to refinishing your door. All you need is a teaspoon of vegetable based soap, and a bowl of water. Vegetable or plant based soaps are alkaline and are less likely to eat away at the door. To get started cleaning your door, mix the soap and water together. Next, dampen a cloth in the mixture and scrub the door. Pay special attention to any crevices, because once rust sets in it can quickly spread. After scrubbing the door, rinse it off with a hose. When you're finished rinsing, dry the door as thoroughly as possible with a towel.

Painting Wrought Iron Doors

To further guard your wrought iron door against rust, and add a little flair, you can paint it. With a wire brush, remove any loose paint flakes and rust. Be extra careful to remove all of the rust. If you want to be sure all of the rust is gone, you can apply kerosene to the door. You should let the kerosene soak into the door. After you've let it soak, you should wash the door thoroughly.

When your door is free of rust and excess paint, you're ready to have it primed. You want to choose a primer that has a rust inhibitor. The best rust inhibiting primers will have zinc as a component. Zinc will oxidize itself and create a protective barrier, which stops the rusting process. Afterward, apply a coat or two of paint specifically made for metal. After the paint is allowed to dry, your door will be safe from rust. With diligent care, your door will be beautiful and rust free for years to come.