If you have an old wrought iron railing that needs repair, this can sometimes be done with minor repairs. It's not always necessary to replace it. Other times, it's a good idea to call in a professional. Very old railings can become brittle and unsafe as well as unsightly but they can often be repaired and restored. Wrought iron railings date way back in time. There are many examples from the sixteen hundreds. There's also evidence that even back then, when a railing was constructed of wrought iron, it was considered to be very artistic and valuable.

Older railings might need restoration and repair if they have been neglected. While wrought iron is very durable, years of neglect can take their toll and lead to rust, corrosion or brittle joints.

Repair tips for wrought iron rails

With caution, care and a bit of knowledge, repairs can be made to restore older wrought iron rails, fencing or staircases.

You will need tools such as a drill, saw, metal cement, a tool to smooth and basic woodworking tools.

Although welding a railing made of iron can appear to correct the problem, a broken piece of iron may remain weak. If it's for a supportive rail or staircase, this could lead to accidents. Supporting the interior of the metal can be a better alternative to simply re-welding it. While you can use metal cement, stabilizing the entire post or pole is a better solution.

If you are unsure, call in a professional

Many qualified craftsmen will allow you to bring in a piece that needs supporting if you are not comfortable doing this yourself. Do-it-yourself stores often will provide helpful advice if you do wish to carry out the repairs on your own. Some procedures include steel or wooden inserts into the post or pipe. The repair process of supporting brittle or broken railings can result in it looking like new again. The supporting process is important especially when a railing is meant for safety purposes. Stability of the posts is extremely critical to the safety and integrity of the structure.

When fixing other parts of the railing, there are some aspects of repairs that you can complete on your own but other elements are best left to professionals. It's a good idea to consult with a professional if you are a little uneasy about the stability of a structure, especially when the railing is used for safety purposes.