Wrought iron exterior doors are gorgeous and timeless. Their long-lasting metal is known for getting better with age. However, that doesn’t mean they’ll never need a little cleaning or tune-up. Whether from harsh weather, attempted entry, or average wear and tear, cleaning and maintaining wrought iron doors may be required from time to time. It shouldn’t cause too much of a headache, especially if you follow these care tips for your iron entry doors.
How to Clean Wrought Iron Doors
All exterior doors will get dirty at some point. Little kids with sticky, dirty fingers can leave grease stains on the iron door handles and glass. Wind, rain and snow, can all leave mud splatters on the kickplate. Wherever the dirt and grime has come from, it’s easy to get rid of.
- Mix one teaspoon of mild soap into a bowl of water until you have a few bubbles.
- Dip a lint-free cloth into the soapy water.
- Starting at the top of your door frame, work your way down to the floor using the soapy cloth to clean the door.
- To rinse, spray the door with a garden hose or use a clean cloth dipped in only water.
- Use a third dry cloth to dry the door, again starting at the top and working down.
Cleaning inside the doors can follow a similar routine, though likely without the garden hose.
Wrought Iron Door Maintenance Tips
For most wrought iron door owners, it is recommended that you clean and inspect your doors once per month as part of your routine home cleaning. This frequency allows you to see what’s normal (and what’s not) for your doors, as well as ensuring a clean surface. Proper cleaning not only removes dirt and build-up and removes and prevents rust which can degrade the doors.
With every inspection, make sure all bolts are tight, hinges work smoothly, and nothing is trapped in the frame that would prevent the door from doing its job. If you do find any issues, you can usually fix them on your own. If more experienced hands are necessary, don’t be afraid to call in the professionals. After all the time and money you put into these doors, you certainly wouldn’t want to accidentally make the problem worse!
Also, keep in mind the climate where you live. For example, those who live near the ocean should take extra care to oil the hinges every month or so and clean them twice per month. This is because the saltwater in the air can corrode the doors and their hardware, unlike the air in other climates. For northern states with harsh winters, road salt can become a problem in the same way saltwater can.
When it comes to your usual custom wrought iron door cleaning, be sure to use a gentle soap. Ideally, this is a liquid castile soap or any mild soap to preserve the look of your doors while still getting them clean. You can find a wrought iron cleaning solution in stores or online, or you can make your own version at home. The non-abrasive cloth is also vital to maintaining the look of your doors, especially with frequent cleanings. Be sure to remove all the soap and water from your doors to avoid having the soap residue or leftover water droplets corrode, stain or otherwise damage your beautiful exterior doors.
Takeaways
- Wrought iron security doors are easy to clean with soap and water
- Single and double front doors should be cleaned and inspected once per month
- Also, pay attention to hardware and hinges
The Best Iron Front Door is Just a Phone Call Away
To start designing your perfect iron front door, please call us at 732-851-8502 or reach out online.