Homeowners install metal sliding gates to keep others out of their driveways, as a safety device near a pool, a garden entry point and in many other places on their property. Manufacturers make sliding gates from steel and wrought iron, along with other types of metals. Exposure to all types of weather conditions leaves metal sliding gates vulnerable to rust. Removing rust is necessary to maintain a sturdy gate and fencing structure. Choose the rust removal method that best suits your capabilities. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Rub the rusted areas of the metal sliding gate with 30-grit sandpaper until you expose the bare metal. Wipe away rust dust with a rag. Sand the metal surface with 80-grit sandpaper to smooth the area.
2. Scour the rusted metal with a wire brush until you remove the corrosion. Wipe away bits of rust with a rag.
3. Equip a hand-held grinder with a wire wheel or install a wire brush drill bit attachment into a power drill. Turn on the drill or grinder and strip rust from the surface of the metal gate.
4. Fill a sandblaster with sandblasting media. Stand 24 to 30 inches away from the gate, turn the sandblaster on and move toward the object slowly while directing the media at the sliding metal gate. As soon as the rust comes away freely, hold your position and blast away rust. Keep the nozzle in constant motion to prevent damaging the metal or cutting through the metal. Positioning the sandblaster too close to the metal gate can damage the metal. Determining the correct distance by moving in slowly protects the metal.
5. Apply a commercially available rust remover to the metal sliding gate with a foam brush according to the manufacturer's instructions. Let the rust remover sit on the rusted metal surface, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Wash the rust remover and rust off the metal gate with a manufacturer-supplied neutralizer or soapy water.
Tags: metal gate, gate with, metal sliding, rust remover, sliding gates