How Do You Estimate the Cost of Painting a Wrought Iron Fence?
Wrought iron fences are a popular option for property owners who want to add a traditional and elegant touch to their homes. They can also increase privacy and give homeowners a feeling of safety. They’re also relatively low maintenance, though water and rust can cause issues.
The Cost of Painting a Wrought Iron Fence
Paint and sealant prices range from $5 to $12 per linear foot for paints and primers, but you’ll pay more for longer fences and more intricate designs. If you’re doing it yourself, the cost will vary based on how much prep work is required and whether you use a paint roller or spray device.
Preparation is key to getting the best results when painting wrought iron. You’ll need to take care to remove rust and old paint so that the new coat will have a smooth and even surface. You can do this yourself, or you can hire a professional.
Start with sanding the fence down to bare iron (use a wire brush on exposed rust and coarse-grit sandpaper on heavier rust spots). Once the rusted areas are smooth, apply a rust-inhibitive sealant to keep the paint from coming off. Then, lay down a drop cloth or plastic to catch drips and overspray that may damage the ground, grass, driveway, and sidewalk.
The next step is applying a rust-inhibitive primer. You can buy this in liquid or aerosol form; the latter is easier to spread and works better for wrought iron, but it uses up more primer. You’ll need at least two cans of primer for your entire project.
You can also use an aerosol spray device that dries faster and smoother than a rag. The downside is that it uses more primer and can be difficult to control, so you might need more than one can of the product.
Choose a paint and spray that’s made specifically for wrought iron fencing. Most paints and primers will hold up well against a variety of weather conditions. You can also purchase a protective coating to help shield your fence from UV radiation.
Get quotes from a few painting companies before choosing the right one for you. Make sure to ask for references and see pictures of their previous work. You’ll want to find someone who’s been in business for a while and is known for their professionalism.
Estimate how long it will take to complete the job. This is an important consideration if your wrought iron fence is tall and requires a significant amount of work to finish. You’ll need to factor in how long it will take a professional to reach each panel and how much labor they’ll need to do the painting.
The height and length of the fence also influence the price, as longer and more complex fences tend to require more paint and sanding to prepare for painting. A longer fence also means more physical work for the painters, as they have to move more frequently and reach the farthest panels of the fence.
