How to care for metal gates

If you have metal gates on your property, you will already be aware of the advantages they bring in terms of additional security and privacy. But how should you care for them?

Inspect for Damage

Conducting regular inspections is an essential part of maintenance. It helps to identify minor issues and allows you to address them before they become major ones. Ideally, you should inspect them at least twice a year – as well as after a sustained period of bad weather.

The key things to look for are signs of rust, dents, or loose fittings/components. Joints and welds are more susceptible to moisture, so pay close attention to those in particular.

Clean the Gates

An effective way of keeping your gates looking good is to clean them regularly using a mix of water and mild detergent. Use a non-abrasive soft cloth or sponge so as not to scratch anything. Simply dampen the cloth or sponge, wipe the gates to remove dirt and then rinse with clean water.

Aim to do this between two and four times a year. This will help prevent the accumulation of dirt and pollutants.

Rust Prevention

Rusting is one of the most common issues with metal gates, but it can be prevented or controlled.

To reduce the chances of rust occurring, you may wish to consider using a specifically designed sealant or paint that forms a barrier to protect against air and moisture.

If you notice any rust spots, the best thing to do is sand them down, clean with a degreaser, and then apply a rust-inhibiting primer.

Metal Gate Specialists

If you feel that metal gates would make a great addition to your property, specialists such as https://donkeywellforge.co.uk/what-we-make/iron-gates-railings offer bespoke metal gates to suit your individual requirements.

Lubrication

Many gates will have moving parts such as hinges and latches. These need to be kept well-lubricated to ensure they keep working and last a long time. So, once or twice a year, simply apply either a graphite powder or silicone-based lubricant to hinges, latches and locks.