Ornamental iron can be used to create stately and artistic fences. If your home is surrounded by an iron fence, you must ensure that you are investing time in routine care in order to maintain the integrity and aesthetic of the iron.

Here are three simple things that you can do to help protect your ornamental iron fence and keep it looking its best over time.

1. Keep it Clean

Residential fencing is exposed to many environmental elements that could inflict damage. Dirt and debris can scratch the surface of the iron's finish, allowing rust to penetrate the fence. Dirt and debris can also contribute to the deterioration of any protective coatings applied to your ornamental iron fence by the manufacturer.

You should take the time to clean your fence often using warm water and a soft rag. If you do spot rusted areas during routine cleaning, they can be scrubbed away before they have a chance to spread. Cleaning your iron fence regularly is a great way to protect it against environmental damage.

2. Apply Protective Coating

Most ornamental iron fence manufacturers will treat their products with a protective finish before they are installed in a residential setting. The protective coating is designed to shield the underlying iron against any moisture damage over time. You will need to apply a fresh coat of protection to your ornamental iron fence on a regular basis. You can utilize specialized paint products, iron wax, or a protective spray to prevent moisture from causing your iron fence to rust.

An experienced fence contractor will be able to help you determine how often you should recoat your iron fence based on the climate you live in and the condition of your fence.

3. Invest in Immediate Repairs

If you are taking the time to clean your ornamental iron fence often, you will be able to spot any damage while it is relatively minor. It's essential that you contact a repair technician to address minor damage as quickly as possible.

Damaged areas create entry points for moisture to infiltrate your fencing system. Significant rusting and other moisture-related problems can stem from impact damage, failed weld joints, or other types of physical damage. The sooner you repair your iron fence, the less likely it is that the damage will spread and cause lasting problems in the future.

Protect your ornamental iron fence to ensure it stays strong and beautiful over time.

For more information on ornamental iron, contact a company like MISSCO.