How to Care for Custom Metal Railings | Ultimate Metalworks
At Ultimate Metalworks, we go beyond standard fabrication. Our deep expertise and elite certifications allow us to handle complex structural challenges and provide unparalleled quality for your property.
Discuss Your Project20 Essential Tips for Preserving Your Custom Metalwork
By following these simple, routine maintenance steps, you can ensure your custom metalwork remains structurally sound and visually stunning for decades in the North Carolina climate.
1. Annual Inspection
Once a year, walk the entire length of your railing. Look for deep scratches, bubbling powder coat, or looseness where it anchors into the concrete.
2. Gentle Cleaning
Twice a year, wash your metal railings using a soft sponge, warm water, and mild dish soap to remove dirt and environmental buildup.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Never use bleach, ammonia, or abrasive scouring pads. These will permanently scratch and degrade the powder coating.
4. Touch-Up Paint
If you find a chip exposing bare steel, address it immediately. Lightly sand the area and apply a rust-inhibiting exterior touch-up paint.
5. Lubricate Hinges
For ornamental gates, apply a high-quality silicone spray lubricant to hinges and latches annually for smooth operation.
6. Check Anchor Points
Inspect the bolts or core-drilled posts anchoring your railing. Tighten any loose bolts immediately to maintain structural integrity.
7. Inspect Concrete Footings
Look for cracking or crumbling concrete around the base of your posts. Water intrusion here can cause serious issues over time.
8. Clear Debris
Keep the base of your railings and gates clear of wet leaves, pine needles, and dirt which can trap moisture and accelerate rust.
9. Manage Vines and Plants
Do not let ivy or creeping vines grow on your ironwork. They trap moisture and their roots can damage the protective finish.
10. Treat Scratches Immediately
Don't ignore small scratches. Rust spreads underneath the coating, causing large flakes to peel off later.
11. Protect from Lawn Equipment
Be careful with weed whackers and lawnmowers around your posts. Physical impacts are the #1 cause of chipped powder coat.
12. Winterize Gates
Before the first freeze, ensure your automated gate tracks are clear of debris and moving parts are well lubricated.
13. Polish Stainless Steel
If you have stainless steel railings, use a dedicated stainless polish to remove fingerprints and maintain its brilliant shine.
14. Check Cable Tension
For cable railings, periodically tighten the tensioning fittings with a wrench so cables remain taut and safe.
15. Remove Bird Droppings
Bird droppings are highly acidic and will eat through powder coating if left sitting. Wash them off as soon as you notice them.
16. Wash Away Pollen
During North Carolina's heavy spring pollen season, hose down your railings to prevent the sticky yellow dust from baking into the finish.
17. Inspect Welds
Look closely at the joints where horizontal rails meet vertical posts. If you see cracking in the paint here, it may indicate structural stress.
18. Keep Sprinklers Away
Adjust your irrigation system so it doesn't spray directly onto your metalwork. Constant hard water exposure will leave mineral deposits.
19. Re-coat Wood Elements
If your metal railing features a wooden top cap, ensure the wood is sealed or stained annually to prevent rot and warping.
20. Call a Pro for Issues
If your railing feels wobbly or a weld has snapped, do not use epoxy or tape. Call a professional welder immediately for safe repair.
Need Professional Repair or Maintenance?
If your metalwork needs structural repair or professional recoating, Chris Roberts is here to help.
