Iron is one of the most durable and weather-resistant materials for fences. However, iron fences do require periodic maintenance to help prevent rust and damage. Here’s how to get your ornamental fence ready for the snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures.
Rust-proof your fence
The most important maintenance task to perform before winter is rust-proofing. Just a slight chip or scratch can expose your fence's bare metal, thereby leading to corrosion. Plus, rust spots can spread quickly, especially in damp weather.
Here’s how to rust-proof your fence:
1.Remove rust and chipped paint using coarse-grit sandpaper or a wire brush.
2.Eliminate any remaining rust particles using a commercial rust neutralizer or a half-and-half solution of lemon juice and vinegar. Dip a wire brush into the solution and scrub areas with exposed metal.
3.Wash the treated areas with soapy water and let dry.
4.Paint the treated areas using a rust-inhibiting metal primer and two coats of rust-resistant paint.
Clean up your yard
Leaves tend to get blown about by the wind and may pile up at the base of your fence. If you let them linger, the leaves will trap moisture, and your fence is likely to corrode.
Also, you should clear away any items that are leaning on the fence. This includes wood piles, yard equipment and toys. These things can also collect moisture. They can also freeze onto the fence and cause the paint to peel off when they’re eventually detached, exposing the bare metal underneath.
Also, be sure to cut back any tree limbs that hang over your fence. Otherwise, they may come to rest on your fence when weighed down with snow and ice, leading to ice buildup on the fence and excessive moisture.
Get your fence repaired
If your fence is damaged, don’t wait to get it repaired. Minor dings will only worsen with time, especially in winter, due to freezing temperatures and excessive moisture. Moreover, if fence posts have structural damage such as bends or kinks, they may not withstand the expansion and contraction caused by freeze-thaw cycles.
Plus, no one wants to deal with fence repairs in the middle of winter. So be sure to inspect your fence for damage before winter and call in a professional to perform any necessary repairs.
Ornamental iron fence repair in Calgary
If you need to repair or replace your ornamental metal fence, turn to the experienced team at Lynx Brand Fence Products. We offer comprehensive fencing services in Calgary, Spruce Grove and Kelowna. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team.