Repairing Wrought Iron Porch Railings

Tighten any loose bolts and screws that secure the railing to the porch.

Clean the railing with soap and warm water. Rinse away the soap with water and dry the iron with clean cloths.

Sand the railing with medium 80-grit sandpaper. Wipe the grit away with a tack cloth.

Brush tough rust spots with a wire brush. Scrub the rust off the iron with vigorous strokes. Wipe the railing with a damp cleaning cloth.

Cover any holes in the railing with the epoxy putty stick. Rub the stick over the hole and use your finger to press the putty in the hole. You can find this kind of putty stick at home improvement stores. Make sure the putty is steel reinforced for use on metal surfaces.

Sand the putty-filled holes to make the surface smooth. Wipe the grit away with the tack cloth.

Roll on the metal paint primer with a 3-inch paint roller. Use the paintbrush for crevices and corners. Let the primer dry for four to six hours.

Paint the wrought iron porch railing with the oil-based black paint. Use a paint roller to apply the paint on the long, broad sections of the railing. Use the paintbrush for corners and crevices. Let the paint dry overnight before you use the railing.