As the owner of a metal gate, you need to inspect your gate routinely for signs of damage or problems. One of the items that you need to be on the lookout for is rust. Rust can damage your gate, both functionally and aesthetically, if it is not removed in a timely manner. Here is everything you need to know about rust and your metal gate.

A metal gate can rust when iron and oxygen come into contact with water, moisture, or humidity. Many types of metal used to create automatic gates are prone to rust, including iron and steel. Rust has a reddish, orange, or brown appearance to it. It can be powdery, flaky, or crusty-looking.

The top reason why rust is problematic to a metal gate is because rust can weaken or eat through metal when left untreated. Your gate helps to provide a barrier between your home and the outside world. If your gate is weakened due to rust, the pets and children you try to keep within the gate, or the people you try to keep out with the gate, can easily exit or enter. Another reason why rust can be problematic for an automatic gate is because rust can spread. When it rains, rust can drip down, getting into the metal parts that automate your gate. This can lead to larger problems that prevent the mechanisms from opening or shutting your gate automatically.

Fortunately, you can prevent or decrease the chances of rust forming on a metal gate. Coating your metal is one of the most effective ways to prevent rust from forming. You can use several different types of coating agents, including powder coating, paint, and sealants. Both powder coatings and paint can alter the color of your metal gate. Sealants are clear, allowing the true color of your metal to shine through. Paint and sealants do not last as long as your gate does. As such, you may need to reapply them routinely to protect your gate from rusting. Powder coatings may last the life of your gate, as long as the coating is not scratched or damaged.

When a small amount of rust is present on your gate, you can attempt to remove it with soapy water and a sponge or a metal rust-removing product. However, if a large amount of rust is present or you cannot remove the rust yourself, you should call in a professional. A professional fence repair company can take a look at your gate and determine whether the rust has caused any damage. If damage is done, they can repair the weakened metal, helping to ensure your gate is structurally sound. The next step that a professional will do is properly remove the rust. Removing rust can be challenging. In many cases, it either needs to be brushed away with a wire brush or sanded out. An untrained person can damage the metal. Lastly, a professional will want to protect your metal gate from rusting in the future. They can discuss the metal coating options with you, allowing you to select the best option for your needs. Is rust present on your metal gate in the Rohnert Park, CA, area? At Northgates in Motion , we can help to remove any rust present on your metal gate, make any repairs needed due to rust damage, and prevent rust in the future. Call us now to schedule an appointment for us to inspect your gate and begin the rust removal and repair process.