Project Description
Art Vandelay Painting recently completed an exterior iron fence painting project for the Kunau family in the Huntington subdivision of Shavano Park, San Antonio, Texas. This meticulous, multi-step restoration transformed a weathered wrought iron fence, addressing years of sun and water damage along with visible rust.
The project, which spanned three days, focused on restoring and protecting the metalwork using specialized tools and premium Sherwin-Williams products, ensuring durability and a pristine finish. Our approach, which emphasizes thorough preparation and careful application, produced a striking result that renewed the fence’s appearance and enhanced the property’s overall curb appeal.
Project Details:
The wrought iron fence had suffered from:
- Years of Exposure – The Texas sun and rain had left the metal discolored and faded.
- Rust Development – Visible rust had accumulated around joints, requiring targeted treatment to halt further corrosion.
- Aged Paint – The previous paint was peeling, which needed careful removal before any new application.
Our team’s steps for completing the project included:
- Full Pressure Wash: We thoroughly cleaned the surface, removing all dirt, grease, and residual paint.
- Rust Removal and Sanding: After pressure washing, our team carefully sanded the entire fence. Areas with rust were treated with Ready-Strip Rust Remover to ensure they wouldn’t degrade the finish over time.
- Protection and Covering: Surrounding surfaces were carefully covered with plastic, paper, and tape to prevent any overspray. Neighbors were informed of the work schedule and care taken to protect their property.
- Paint Application: The Direct To Metal (DTM) Tricorn Black was applied in two coats for durability and a clean, modern look. We used a professional-grade sprayer, ensuring smooth, even coverage.
Scope of Services:
We provided a full-service iron fence restoration, focusing on longevity and visual appeal through careful preparation and professional application. Our process involved:
Initial Inspection and Planning:
- Noted specific areas with severe rust and discoloration.
- Developed a detailed restoration plan with the client, prioritizing both aesthetics and durability.
Preparation:
- Full pressure wash to remove dirt, grime, and loose particles.
- Sanding every inch of the fence to create a smooth, rust-free surface for optimal paint adherence.
- Application of Ready-Strip Rust Remover on rusted joints and vulnerable spots.
Painting and Application:
- Applied Direct To Metal (DTM) Tricorn Black paint, semi-gloss finish, in two coats to ensure durability and even coverage.
- Used a high-quality sprayer for a smooth, professional finish.
Paints/Products Used:
- Ready-Strip Rust Remover – Effective on rusted areas, especially in joints, where iron fencing is most susceptible to damage.
- Sherwin-Williams Direct To Metal (DTM) Paint
- Color: Tricorn Black
- Sheen: Semi-gloss, providing a clean, modern appearance with increased resistance to environmental wear.
Results:
The transformation was remarkable. After three days of diligent work, the fence looked like new, with a sleek, semi-gloss black finish that significantly enhanced the curb appeal of the Kunau family’s property.
The rust was entirely removed, and the DTM paint provided an even, durable coat that will protect the fence against future rusting and fading.