Wrought iron can adapt to many decorating styles.
Wrought iron appointments give a home a classic style that complements many types of home designs. Wrought iron staircase railings last for many years with a minimum of maintenance. Generally, a paint finish is used to protect the surface of the metal. Though there are traditional colors used for wrought iron, other ideas for wrought iron railings can create an individual look for your home. Does this Spark an idea?
Painting Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is a durable material that will last for years. However, wrought iron reacts with moisture in the air and turns into iron oxide compounds that discolor the surface and deteriorate the metal. Before repainting wrought iron railings, you must remove as much of this rust as possible. Rust can be removed with a wire brush, file or sandpaper. You then cover the surface of the metal with phosphoric acid, in a brush-on or spray-on form. This chemical converts the remaining rust into iron phosphate, which does not deteriorate the metal, according Thomas J. Baker, writing for the ThisOldHouse website. A coat of metal primer is then applied to the wrought iron and allowed to dry before painting with a top coat in the desired color.
Traditional Black Finish
The traditional black wrought iron finish works best in Mediterranean, Spanish or Moroccan themed rooms, in which Old World craftsmanship and natural materials are used routinely. Black wrought iron provides a simple, yet elegant accent to fit with the rich fabrics and dramatic designs often used in these styles. If the severe look of all black paint doesn't suit you, however, try lightly brushing a bit of bronze paint along the edges of the railings to give highlights to the railings.
Antique Brass Finish
An elegant look for wrought iron railings is to apply an antique brass or antique gold finish. You can achieve this antique look by first preparing the railings as recommended. As a topcoat, used a rust-inhibiting dark gold or dark brass spray paint. Spread out drop cloths to avoid getting paint on nearby surfaces. Spray the primed railings with the topcoat color and allow to dry thoroughly. Give the surface a second coat of paint to resist wear.
Copper Patina Finish
To create a less common look for your wrought iron railings, use copper paint as the topcoat. Apply two coats, allowing the paint to completely dry between coats. Then, use a light green paint to lightly brush the edges and connections of the metal parts to simulate the "patina" that real copper develops with age.
French Provincial Finish
A French Provincial style of wrought iron railing is created by covering it in white paint. Use two coats and allow the paint to dry between coatings. Then, give the railing a light brushing with gold paint, along the edges of the railing, down the pickets and across the top of the handrail. This method gives wrought iron a lighter and more refined look for French Provincial décor.
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