How to Repair Rust Holes in a Wrought-Iron Fence

Quck answer

Rust holes in a wrought-iron fence can be fixed by following these steps:

1. Clean the affected area: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any loose rust and paint around the hole.

2. Remove rust: Apply a rust converter or rust remover to the hole and surrounding area. Follow the product instructions for the best results.

3. Fill the hole: Use a two-part epoxy putty or a metal patch to fill the hole. Apply the putty or patch evenly and smooth it out with a putty knife.

4. Sand and paint: Once the filler has hardened, sand it down to make it flush with the fence. Then, apply a rust-inhibiting primer followed by a coat of paint to match the fence.

By following these steps, you can effectively fix rust holes in a wrought-iron fence and restore its appearance and strength.


Although not common, it is possible for a wrought-iron fence to experience enough rust damage that the rust corrodes the iron. If you have a wrought-iron fence with rust damage, it can negatively impact the look of your yard. However, you don’t need to replace the wrought iron to restore the fence’s shine; instead, you can patch the holes and repaint it.

Step 1

Eliminate the excess rust buildup by using sandpaper, a sanding block, or a rotary tool with a sanding disc. The method of rust removal depends on its condition. If the rust is loose and flaky, you can easily remove it. However, if it’s more solid, using a rotary tool will make the task easier.

Step 2

Scrub the holes in the fence with a stiff-bristled brush to eliminate any remnants of rust.

Step 3

Fill the holes in the fence with putty by dipping a putty knife in the putty, forcing it into the holes, and smoothing it out to create a seamless finish. Allow the putty to dry for the recommended time mentioned on the can.

Step 4

Sand off the excess dried putty from the fence using 320-grit sandpaper. The aim of this step is to sand the putty until it is level with the surrounding wrought iron. When you run your finger over the repaired area, you should not feel any indentation where the putty was applied.

Step 5

Paint the repaired area with paint that matches the rest of the fence. Wrought iron is typically finished in black, and you can either use a brush or spray paint to apply the paint. If the rest of the fence has a faded appearance, it is recommended to paint the entire fence at the same time to achieve a uniform look.

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