Iron Fence Repair

In the above video Jason Church with NCPTT discuss how to paint an iron fence. You will see iron fences in many cemeteries. It’s the way families can keep their space in the cemetery known to others. It also protected the gravestones from being damage by deer, cows and horses. Having an iron fence is common to see on farmland.

Be sure to cover all gravestones before starting any kind of work on the iron fence. You do not want to damage any gravestone with rust, chemicals or paint. Check the bottom of the fence, any unnecessary ground contact will cause the iron to corrode. Only the post should touch the ground. If you see loss or broke connections try to fix them by tightening loose bolts and replacing missing ones. Try to straighten any bent parts of the fence. It’s best to use a brush for paiting, no spray paint.

• Go over the fence with a stainless steel wire brush, to loosen rust and dirt.
• Wash the surface with a non-ionic detergent, and let dry.
• Paint with a Rust converter that is phosphoric acid or tannic acid based. This can’t be done with high humidity or it will get a chalky white surface. Check the manufacturer’s label for curing time.
• Next prim the fence with a oil based primer that is designed to use on metal.
• Next you will want to pick a oil based paint for metal. Two coats are preferable to get a good solid surface.

If your fence is to damaged or heavily corroded you might want to call in a professional conservator to do the job. Best of luck and we would love to have your before and after pictures to post on our website.

Click below on items you may need.

Hobart Stainless Steel Wire Brush

Contractor’s Paint Brush Set

Eastwood Rust Converter Gallon

Rust-Oleum 1-Quart

Oil-Based Utility Enamel