The arrival of March in the UK often brings with it the promise of spring, but also increased rainfall that can create challenges for metal gate owners. At Metal Gates Direct, we understand that protecting your investment requires proper knowledge and preparation. This guide offers tips to help safeguard your gates during this notoriously wet season.
Understanding the Rust Process
Rust formation isn't simply an aesthetic concern—it's a chemical reaction that progressively weakens metal structures. Rainwater triggers oxidation of unprotected iron or steel, which results in the transformation of metal into rust. The rust formation rate increases rapidly during March because of temperature changes and higher rainfall amounts.
Gate owners frequently overlook the fact that rust formation does not need heavy rain to form. The rusting process can begin through both morning dew and high humidity conditions. Protective measures need to be implemented because weather conditions do not determine the necessity of protection.
Identifying Vulnerable Areas
Metal gate areas have specific spots which tend to develop rust based on our accumulated knowledge.
The moving parts and gate hinges on metal gates show paint deterioration which reveals their underlying metal surface. Horizontal surfaces act as water collectors instead of directing water to drain off. The lower parts of metal structures that lie close to soil or plants stay wet for long durations after rainfall occurs. The combination of joints and welded areas creates spaces where moisture can become trapped within microscopic spaces.
Regular inspections of these areas enable preventive measures to be taken before major damage happens.
Tried & Tested Prevention Strategies
Our customers who maintain rust-free gates typically employ several key approaches:
Quality Finishing Systems
Premium gates have multiple protective layers that include primer paint and sometimes include powder coating or galvanisation. These create defence-in-depth against moisture penetration. When purchasing new gates, investing in superior finishing significantly extends service life.
Regular Maintenance Schedule
Establishing a seasonal inspection routine can be quite a preventative measure in the fight against rust. A dry cloth used to wipe gates immediately after heavy rain helps eliminate any remaining moisture. The application of automotive wax builds an extra protective layer which works best to resist water during March's harsh weather.
Prompt Touch-Up Procedures
Small damage areas should be repaired immediately to stop rust from spreading. A supply of paint matching the original colour should be available for quick maintenance tasks. Petroleum jelly can act as temporary protection against moisture entry when gate repairs are not yet possible.
Environmental Modifications
The way you arrange your garden space should be considered when designing gate access. The presence of vegetation above gates promotes higher humidity levels which slows down drying time. Draining the soil near gate posts helps stop the formation of water pools at critical structural points.
Professional Restoration Options
For gates already showing signs of rust, all is not lost. Modern restoration products transform existing rust into stable compounds through their protective application. Our technical support team will suggest suitable products by analysing your gate construction and current state.
Long-Term Protection Planning
The protection of gates lends itself to continuous attention throughout the entire year despite the specific difficulties March brings. Gate owners who establish maintenance schedules for different seasons achieve steady protection throughout all weather conditions.
Metal Gates Direct dedicates itself to assisting customers in extending the useful life of their acquisitions.
Our product selection contains maintenance packages designed to protect various metal surfaces under different environmental conditions. Our technical team provides individualised guidance to all customers who have bought from us before or those who are thinking about new gates.
With proper care, quality metal gates can remain beautiful and functional for generations—standing as testament to both craftsmanship and conscientious ownership.