Congratulations! You found just the right company to design and build your custom iron gate.

Now that you’ve done your research and spent the time and money to install your gate at your home, you want it to last you a long time, right?

Yes, iron is durable and more resistant to wear and tear than aluminum or other lighter materials. But there are some maintenance tricks and tips to ensure you enjoy your gate, and protect your investment for many years to come:

Gates Require Lubrication

Keeping your iron gate hinges lubricated is essential. Lubricate your hinges approximately every 4 months with silicone spray. This is standard practice for all styles of First Impression Ironworks hinges. Spray the lubricant into all of the joints and moving sections of the hinge. The welded hinges have a predrilled lubrication hole or a zerk fitting at the top of the hinge which allows a drip or a spray like application

Adjust Gate Roller Latches

The roller latches are likely to need adjustment periodically. If your door or gate opens on its own – from wind or light touch when the deadbolt is not engaged – this is an indication that you may need to increase the tension on the springs. To increase tension, turn both screws an equal amount just above and below the roller in a clockwise direction. Open and close to check for desired tension. Be careful not to increase the roller too much or the roller itself could fall out and into the door or gate, leaving it virtually impossible to retrieve.

Keeping Gates Clean

Simply wipe down with a sponge and dishwasher detergent solution when needed and dry off with a damp towel. Simple! Want to know just how much to mix? Check out “Top Tips to Prepare Your AZ Home for Spring” for our simple at-home cleaner blend. QUICK TIP: DO NOT hose down your iron to clean it, as this will create unneeded wear and potential future issues.
If your iron gate has glass, use a quality commercial glass cleaner. Do not use products containing abrasives. First Impression Ironworks suggests using newspaper or an approved squeegee to clean all glass on First Impression Ironworks products.

Maintaining Wood Gates

Redwood is a beautiful, natural, wood that requires continual care and attention. We suggest an annual cleaning and light sanding (if needed) to ensure the wood is ready to absorb an outdoor approved stain or sealer to protect the life of the wood. First Impression Ironworks uses a Minwax Red Mahogany stain or a Thompson’s Seal on our Iron and Wood Gates. This will protect the natural beauty of redwood. These can be purchased at your local hardware store.

Maintaining Composite Wood Gates

Composite wood has been used on many designs of Iron and Wood Gates. This is a low maintenance synthetic material made from plastics and other recyclable materials. The good news about composite material is that it does not require application of water treatment and/or stain. Simply wipe down, once a year, with soap and water, and dry off with a towel.

All in all, wrought iron gates are definitely a good choice if you are looking for something that can give your home a high level of security, elegance, and privacy. With normal care, maintenance and inspection, you’ll enjoy many years of enjoyment of you First Impression Ironworks Iron gate.

Let First Impression Ironworks help you design an Iron Gate that fits your home’s style and your budget. Call us today at 602-345-7481 or browse our Gallery here.