Preventing rust and chipping on iron railings

Metallic surfaces are always going to be more prone to rusting and chipping, especially when located outdoors. Fortunately, homeowners can take preventive steps to minimize the damage. Wash wrought iron fences with soapy water twice a year. Wipe the railings down with a mixture of lemon juice and white vinegar, and then buff any scratches or signs of rust with steel wool at least once a year to help neutralize any damage. You may also need to touch up a few areas with matching paint. After it dries, you can even use a coat of car wax to help seal the railings against moisture. If regularly maintained, iron railings don’t usually need to be sanded and repainted more than once every six years, although this also depends on the amount of exposure to moisture and direct sunlight.