When compared to other fencing materials such as vinyl and wood, wrought iron is more durable. But that is not all that makes wrought iron fencing attractive to homeowners. Installing such a fence usually adds an ageless beauty to a home. Add to this the fact that they are easy to maintain and you will end up with the perfect fencing material.

However, when weathered too long, a wrought iron fence can start to rust. Consistent exposure to some chemicals can also mess with its look. This may then negatively affect both the durability and the visual appeal of the fence. The good news is that it is easy to protect the fence against corrosion. Here are tips that can help you do so.

Paint the fence

The slag fibers in wrought iron fences, like those from City Wide Fence Co, usually add to their aesthetic appeal. The only problem is that they also form small pits on the wrought iron surface. These pits can then trap water and hence accelerate the rate at which your fence rusts.

Painting the fence will shield the wrought iron from water exposure. And when multiple thin coats of paint are used, they can reduce the moisture-carrying capacity of the tiny pockets. This will reduce the risks of moisture damage.

Maintain a healthy plant-fence distance

When grown too close to the wrought iron fence, shrubs and other prickly plants can scratch any protective coat off the fence and thus expose it to weather elements. The leaves of the plants also hold moisture for longer periods. If they grow too close to the fence, the wrought iron will be consistently exposed to this moisture, something that may accelerate the rate at which it rusts. It is therefore advisable to make sure that there is a healthy distance between the fence and any growths. And for already-grown shrubs, trimming them is advisable if you want to increase the durability of your fence.

Carry out regular fence maintenance activities

Fence caps usually help to keep rain water out of your fence's posts. When they go missing, they leave your fence exposed to corrosion-encouraging moisture than can ruin the aesthetic appeal of your fence. Replacing any missing caps as soon as possible will therefore help to increase the lifespan of your fence.

An accident can leave you with a bent wrought iron fence. If this happens, make sure that you blowtorch the bent area and that you straighten it out using a hammer as soon as possible. This is because bent wrought iron parts usually create opportunities for water accumulation that may then accelerate the rate of corrosion. Paying immediate attention to these parts will therefore go a long way towards preserving the visual appeal of your fence.