How should ironwork be cared for?
Interior ironwork is commonly finished with a wax or linseed oil based finish or a clear polyurethane or acrylic coating. My preferred finish would be natural iron color coated with Permalac, a clear lacquer. Occasional light waxing should maintain the piece indefinitely. Exterior iron work will eventually rust if a surface coating is not maintained. Various methods of protection can be used such as priming and painting, hot dip galvanizing or powder coating. Remember the natural finish of iron is rust. Iron of sufficient mass standing exposed to the elements acquires a rust coat that can protect the interior for several lifetimes.
