Wrought Iron Side Yard Gates are a beautiful addition to any home or property. They will not only look great but will also help you increase the value of your property as they will create a ton of prestige, elegance, and status. Though their material is resistant and long-lasting it is essential to maintain it properly to increase its lifespan, which is important because they are a significant investment for your home. Here are 5 tips that will help you with that.
1. Examine Your Wrought Iron Side Yard Gates
It's as simple as walking around the perimeter of your side yard. Not only will you be able to stretch your legs, but you will also be able to appreciate your yard and ensure that your gates are in good working order.
Although it's a good idea to inspect your side yard gates every few months, it's especially important to do so following any inclement weather. Wrought iron gates are less likely to crack than wooden and vinyl gates, but they can still be damaged by severe weather.
2. Continue Regular Cleaning
To avoid further damage to your wrought iron side yard gates, remove any substantial debris that has accumulated along the exterior of your gates as soon as possible. After the heavy lifting is completed, it is still necessary to clean and maintain wrought iron gates throughout the year.
Taking the time to clean off your wrought iron side yard gates at the end of each season will ensure its longevity and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements. Maintaining your gates clean throughout the year will save you money.
3. Plant Carefully
The beauty of a side yard gate can be enhanced by vines growing on it or flowers planted along the gate line. However, because plants and their maintenance can sometimes cause issues, caution is needed to avoid damage.
If the plants will be in direct contact with the gates, choose annual vines, shrubs, or flowers. Morning glory or black-eyed Susan vines, for example, die back each year, making it easy to access and maintain the gates in between growing seasons. When the plants do not die back, damage to the material can go unnoticed until it is severely rusted.
4. Removing Rust from Wrought Iron Fence and Side Yard Gates
If your wrought iron side yard gates develop rust, you'll want to know how to get it off. All you'll need is fine-grit sandpaper or a stiff wire brush if you catch it early enough. These will help you scrub the rust away. You can use commercial rust cleaner after you've scrubbed away any light rust. You can use a wire brush to apply the rust cleaner to your gates by dipping it directly into the rust cleaner.
To avoid the appearance of rust, it is best to clean your wrought iron fence at least once a month, or once every few months. You can use a mild soapy water solution. To prevent rust from occurring, you can use a rust inhibitor primer and rust-proof paint. These substances will slow down the process of rust and keep your wrought iron side yard gates in pristine condition for years to come.
5. Repaint the Gates
After you've scrubbed the rust off your side yard gate, paint the affected areas to protect them from moisture and oxygen, both of which cause rust. Also, because the gates are likely to dull if it has faded spots and peeled paint all over, repaint faded spots for aesthetic reasons. Painting projects require knowledge and experience. So, you should consider hiring the assistance of professionals.
These tips will surely help you to increase the lifespan of your wrought iron side yard gates. However, fabrication is key to this, that’s why choosing a good wrought iron contractor is crucial, with Elite Wrought Iron Gates you can rest assured that your side yard gates will last for decades. Contact us today!