Restoring Heritage Ironwork: Our Step-by-Step Process
There’s something special about old ironwork. Whether it’s a set of Victorian railings, a decorative gate on a Georgian terrace, or a set of scrolls on a cast-iron balcony, these pieces tell stories — not just of the buildings they belong to, but of the craftspeople who made them.
At our forge, restoring heritage ironwork is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. It’s a chance to preserve the past, respect the original maker’s vision, and ensure these features continue to serve and inspire for decades to come.
Understanding the Piece
Every restoration starts with a close look at the ironwork. We assess the structure, surface condition, damage, and how it was made. Often, we’ll find evidence of traditional techniques: hand-forged rivets, collars, tenons, or fire-welded joints — signs that a blacksmith was there before us.
We also look at the setting. Historic ironwork isn’t just a freestanding object — it’s part of the building’s character. So we take note of the architecture, materials, and fixing points to ensure the restored piece blends naturally back into place.
Repairing vs Replacing
Our first priority is always to repair rather than replace. That means cleaning and stabilising the existing metal, welding or forging repairs where possible, and preserving as much original material as we can.
When parts are too damaged or missing, we carefully recreate them using the same materials and methods as the original. This might involve replicating scrollwork, finials, or bars — each one made by hand to match the originals in size, shape, and style.
Removing Rust & Old Paint
We remove rust and flaking paint using appropriate methods like hand tools, sandblasting, or chemical treatments — taking care not to damage the underlying metal. Once cleaned, we treat the iron with rust inhibitors and apply a durable protective finish, usually a traditional paint system or powder coating, depending on the client’s preference and the location.
For listed buildings or conservation areas, we work to the guidelines set by local authorities and heritage bodies, often liaising with architects or conservation officers to ensure the work is appropriate and historically sensitive.
Reinstalling with Care
Once restored, the ironwork is carefully reinstalled. This may involve re-fixing into stone, brick, or timber using traditional methods — sometimes including lead packing or lime mortar where appropriate. Every step is taken to ensure a strong, long-lasting fit without compromising the structure of the building.
More Than Just Metal
Restoring heritage ironwork is about more than just repairing metal — it’s about respecting craftsmanship, preserving architectural history, and ensuring the work continues to serve both a practical and decorative purpose for years to come.
When done well, restored ironwork doesn’t look new — it looks right. Like it belongs there. Like it always has.
If you would like to discuss a potential project with us, please do not hesitate to contact us.
