Most modern wrought iron fences are actually steel or aluminum.
Trimming the final panel of a wrought iron fence doesn't require a welder's mask, and removing a damaged fence section doesn't require demolition with a sledgehammer. A portable reciprocating saw, which the Milwaukee Electric Tool Company markets under the trade name Sawzall, makes short work of these otherwise difficult cuts. Use the correct blades, watch the blade speed and use the right safety procedures, and you'll have your weekend schedule cleared as quickly as the the movement of the saw's reciprocating blade. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Provide supplemental support to the fence section if you are cutting a previously installed wrought iron fence panel. Ensure the fence section is firmly secured in place before cutting, or the panel may suddenly move and cause an injury. Ask an assistant to steady the panel if necessary.
2. Metal filings can damage your eyes and lungs.
Wear eye protection, gloves and a face mask to protect you from metal filings and other debris. Reciprocating saw blades move quickly back and forth, and the rapid motion often throws the fine particulates into the air. Also ensure the saw's safety devices are functional, including the hilt guard and pressure trigger. Wear ear protection to prevent hearing loss.
3. Don't use dull, worn or warped blades.
Check your steel-cutting blade for missing teeth or a dull edge, and discard any blade in poor condition. Worn blades may catch in the cut and can cause serious injury. Install the blade and adjust the blade speed according to the manufacturer's directions. The manufacturer suggests lower blade speeds when cutting metal.
4. Plug in a corded saw and move the cord away from the fence, your feet or any other obstructions. Grip the saw's handle with your dominant hand and the chassis with your remaining hand. Place the saw lightly against the section you wish to cut, with the guard or shoe against the metal, and gently pull the saw's trigger.
5. Cut slowly through the metal, allowing the saw to do the work. Never push or force the saw into the cut. Complete the cut and release the trigger to stop the saw. Remove the stopped blade from the cut. Don't touch the blade or the cut ends; the blade's friction heats the metal. Grabbing these hot sections may burn you.
Tags: fence section, blade speed, doesn require, iron fence, Wear protection, with your
