Coatings on wrought iron products

1. Wax finishing: Technically speaking, the way it works is that the finished product is cleaned with a wire brush, then heated to a certain temperature, which gives the product a dark colour. The hot iron is dipped in wax or oil. Different smiths use somewhat different substances to give it that final look: various oils, pine tar, paraffin and so on. We, at Thorman, use beeswax. Smiths have used this kind of hot-dipping in oil or wax since ancient times. Wax- and oil-coated products may leave some traces on other items they come into contact with, if used in very warm conditions.

Wax-finished products are not particularly weather-proof. Continuous exposure to water will lead to rapid formation of rust. Maintenance is easy, however. A mildly rusted spot should be rubbed with an oily rag. Vegetable oil or any other oil that happens to be at hand can be used for this purpose. Areas with more extensive rust should be cleaned with a wire brush and then oiled.

In indoor conditions, oil or wax finishing provides anti-rust protection that can last years. Plus, it gives an authentic historical appearance.

2. Lacquer

The products offered in this shop are mainly finished with a universal nitrocellulose lacquer. Compared to wax, this provides slightly better protection against the elements. Maintenance is more complicated. Lacquer damaged by rust must be removed using a wire brush, and the lacquer has to be re-applied. The products are metallic grey and do not stain other items.

3. Paint.

Weather resistance guaranteed. A drawback is that the characteristically fluid lines of hand-forged iron may end up hidden by the paint. It is recommended to choose this finishing for products that are meant for outdoor use and where rusting cannot be tolerated.