We often think about treating rust when it's already present. However, intervening before it appears is 3 times less expensive and 10 times faster. Here's how to preventively maintain an iron fence.
Why prevention is more effective than cure
A new or recently treated fence doesn't have rust yet—but it will if nothing is done. Unprotected steel starts to oxidize within a few months, depending on the environment.
Preventive treatment means blocking this process before it starts. The result: a fence that lasts for decades without heavy intervention.
How often should you inspect your fence?
Spring: full visual inspection after winter. This is the ideal season for treatment.
Autumn: check before rain and cold weather.
After a strong weather event: storm, intense frost, flood.
Priority areas to monitor
- Welds and joints between bars
- The bottom of the fence in contact with the ground
- Areas where the paint is scratched or flaking
- Posts embedded in the ground or concrete
What to do during a preventive inspection
1. Check for any areas that have changed color or texture
2. Run your hand over the surface—an abnormal roughness indicates the beginning of oxidation
3. On suspicious areas, apply a coat of GALVACYL® immediately
4. There's no need to treat the entire fence if only a few areas are affected
Preventive maintenance means 30 minutes a year to avoid years of degradation.
