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Wrought iron gates are a statement piece for any property, and they’re hugely popular with customers across the UK for their unique combination of security and timeless style. We know that better than anyone here at North Valley Forge – with more than 30 years of experience behind us, every gate we craft is built to last, with a protective finish that includes hot dip galvanising to help resist rust and wear from the elements.
While they’re built for durability, they still perform at their very best with occasional maintenance. As you’ve no doubt surmised already, the key is cleaning them carefully – without compromising the finish that protects the metal underneath. To make the job easier, we’ve drawn up a handy guide to help you ensure your gate stays in top condition, without avoiding unnecessary damage.
What tools and materials you’ll need
As with any job like this, before you begin it’s important to gather the right supplies. For routine cleaning, all you need are:
- A soft sponge or cloth (microfibre is ideal)
- A bucket of warm water mixed with a small amount of mild detergent
- A soft-bristle brush for detailing around scrolls and joints
- A garden hose or spray bottle filled with clean water for rinsing
- A clean, dry cloth for drying down the surface
The main thing is to avoid anything abrasive – no for example no steel wool, wire brushes, or scouring pads. These will scratch the finish, potentially exposing the metal underneath and reducing the effectiveness of the galvanised layer. Likewise, you’ll need to avoid overly harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can dull the paint or react with the galvanised surface.
How to clean the surface properly
Once you’ve got your tools ready, start by rinsing the gate with clean water. A gentle spray from a hose or a spritz from a spray bottle is enough (in other words, don’t blast it!). This quick spray loosens surface dust and helps prevent fine particles from scratching the paint when you wipe it down.
Next, dip your soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe the gate down, working from top to bottom. Use smooth, even strokes and avoid scrubbing, especially on flat areas where the finish is more exposed. For intricate scrollwork or tight corners, you can use the soft-bristle brush to get into the gaps without applying too much pressure. Take your time with any areas like decorative details or layered features. Crucially, wipe slowly and reapply soapy water as needed. Don’t let the soap dry on the surface – if it starts to streak or dry out, rinse it off and continue.
Once the whole gate has been cleaned, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water to remove any lingering soap. Check that no suds remain in crevices, as they can leave streaks or marks over time. After rinsing, you can then dry the gate completely using a clean cloth. This is a key step – leaving moisture on the surface can encourage rust to form over time, especially around joints or hinges, so make sure to avoid it!
How to deal with stubborn patches
From time to time, you may find yourself dealing with some elements that might resist a quick wipe-down, such as tree sap or patches of grime. It’s tempting to scrub at them with force, just as you would with normal household cleaning, but doing so risks wearing away the protective finish. Instead, soak a soft cloth in warm, soapy water and hold it against the affected area for several minutes. This helps loosen any stubborn residue without applying direct pressure. For crevices and detailed sections, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or detailing brush, working gently in small circles.
If you do notice early signs of rust – perhaps where two sections meet or in a decorative fold – you may want to use a rust eraser or very fine grade wire wool (0000 grade only), and work slowly and lightly. Once the spot is clean, again, be sure to dry it thoroughly. If the finish has been compromised, you can potentially choose to touch up the area with a suitable primer and outdoor metal paint as soon as possible.
The key things to avoid
We’ve already talked about the main materials to avoid, above. Plus, there are a few common cleaning habits that can do more harm than good. These include:
- Using pressure washers. While it might seem like a quick fix, the force can strip paint or push water into seams, which may encourage rust over time.
- Ignoring the drying process. Leaving your gate to air-dry can cause water spots or allow moisture to sit in joints and crevices.
- Using waxes or polishes not intended for metal. Car products or household polishes can leave residues that discolour over time or interact poorly with the existing finish.
- Cleaning during direct sunlight or extreme heat. This can cause streaking or premature drying of soap and water, leaving unsightly marks.
Being gentle and deliberate in your cleaning method is the best way to maintain the integrity of your gate’s finish.
That’s all the essentials covered – and if you ever have any questions or need any answers in more detail, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team here at North Valley Forge. With over 30 years of experience in building and installing grand electric wrought iron gates, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and craftsmanship. If you’re thinking about installing electric gates at your home or business, or if you’d like to learn more about our range of gates, feel free to request one of our brochures.
Or, if you’d like more information on our servicing options, don’t hesitate to head to the Our Process page or you can give us a call on 01282 677300, and we’ll be happy to help!
