How To Maintain Your Iron Door

With proper care, iron doors can last for decades while maintaining their beauty and function. Here is a deep dive look into how to properly maintain your iron door to keep it looking and performing its best.

How do I clean my iron door?

Over time, dust, pollen, and environmental residue can inevitably build up on your door's surface. To clean effectively, use a soft, non-abrasive cloth with a touch of Liquid Wrench to gently wipe down the surface to remove residue without scratching or dulling the finish. Other alcohol-based cleaners can strip the paint of the door due to the acidity. A simple, gentle wipe-down every few months or as needed for spot cleaning is usually all it takes to keep your door's surface pristine.

Is it okay for water to get on my door?

Water is one of the most common factors that can shorten the life of an iron door finish. This is especially true in areas with hard water, where minerals can leave behind stubborn spots and stains and cause rusting. Always dry your door if water comes into contact with it, and be mindful of sprinklers, water hoses, or rain splatter from nearby surfaces. Standing water around the bottom of your door frame can also affect the seal and threshold, so ensure proper drainage near your entryway whenever possible.

What type of cleaners can I use?

As mentioned before, be mindful of what cleaners you use on your door. Alcohol-based or abrasive cleaners can strip the protective coating of the paint, leaving the metal vulnerable to rust. Instead, stick to mild, non-abrasive products. At M2 Metals Iron Doors, we use Liquid Wrench, but WD-40 would work similarly.

What do I do if my hardware is squeaky or not wanting to operate?

Over time, even the strongest doors can develop stiffness in their moving parts. If you notice your iron door hinges squeaking or your handle and lock mechanisms feeling stiff, it might just need a light coat of Liquid Wrench or similar grease-style oil to the moving parts. This simple maintenance ensures no damage occurs from general wear over time.

How often should I check my door?

Your iron door deserves the same attention you would give any valuable feature of your home. To ensure longevity, we recommend doing a quick inspection of your door every 6 to 12 months. Checking the surface, hardware, and seals to ensure both your door and home are fully protected and can prevent bigger issues down the road.

By following these recommendations, we are confident your door will last for years to come!