Wood and Vinyl Fencing East Rancho Dominguez CA | Call GNZ Welding & Ironworks

The primary cause is soil erosion around the base of the post, common in our area due to sandy or loamy soil and occasional heavy rain. This can make posts shift or lean over time. Our solution involves removing the loose soil, setting the post in a concrete footing below the frost line (or deeper as needed), and backfilling with compacted gravel for drainage. For severe cases, we weld reinforcing brackets onto the existing metal post or replace it entirely. We also recommend regular inspections after wet seasons to catch early signs of movement.

Coastal air and soil can speed up rusting on steel and wrought iron components. The key is to start with a high-quality primer and paint system, specifically one designed for marine environments. We thoroughly clean the metal, remove any existing rust, apply a rust-inhibiting primer, and finish with a weatherproof topcoat. For gates and fence sections in direct contact with soil, we advise galvanized or powder-coated materials. Additionally, we offer periodic weatherproofing services to reapply sealants and touch up any bare spots before rust takes hold.

Yes, definitely. If your gate posts or hinges are affected by soil erosion or rust, the gate can become misaligned, putting extra load on the motor and track. First, we inspect the posts for movement and check the hinges for rust or corrosion near the pivot points. We straighten or reinforce the posts, lubricate or replace corroded hinges, and realign the gate. Then we test the automatic opener to ensure smooth operation. Using rust-resistant materials and proper concrete footings during installation prevents these issues long-term.