Wrought Iron Protection

When reassembled, interior faces of joined, elements may be bedded in modern silicone mastic as an alternative to the red lead putty used traditionally. All surfaces should be carefully painted, taking care to include the underside of the ironwork. Thorough protection from the weather is vital for all exterior ironwork.

Galvanizing is generally considered inappropriate for historical fittings, particularly for delicate and highly detailed pieces, mainly because the metalwork has to be dipped in acid prior to galvanizing.

A variety of paints is available to reduce the risk of rusting. Care should also be taken to avoid collection points for moisture and, once painted, recesses may be filled with suitable filler such as pitch, which is a traditional solution or an epoxy resin.

Interior fittings can be protected with oils or waxes. A traditional protection for wrought iron is a combination of beeswax and boiled linseed oil, rubbed into the surface of the scraped iron.