Protecting Your Investment in Craftsmanship and Heat-Hardened Steel

If you’ve invested in a custom wrought iron or steel pizza oven door, congratulations—you’ve added both function and timeless style to your outdoor cooking setup. Whether it’s for a wood-fired oven on the back patio or a hand-built brick oven at your homestead, your pizza oven door is a hardworking tool that deserves proper care.

At Old West Iron, we believe anything built to last should be maintained the old-fashioned way: with attention, respect, and the occasional wipe-down with elbow grease. Here's how to keep your pizza oven door in peak condition, season after season.

1. Know Your Finish

Before cleaning or maintaining your oven door, it's important to know what finish it has. At Old West Iron, our doors are available in:

• Raw Steel – Natural, unfinished, and full of character. This option may darken or oxidize over time.

• Oil-Rubbed Bronze – Hand-applied patina with a warm, aged appearance.

• High-Heat Black – Durable coating designed for exposure to open flame and high temperatures.

• Custom Patinas – Finishes that may include layered chemicals or waxed surfaces.

Check your order receipt or reach out to us if you're unsure what finish your door has—we’ll help you ID it.

2. Cleaning the Door

For Raw Steel or Oil-Rubbed Finishes:

• Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to wipe away soot and debris.

• Avoid harsh chemicals—stick to gentle soap if necessary.

• If rust appears (common on raw finishes), gently scrub with 0000 steel wool, then reapply a light coat of oil or high-temp clear spray.

For Powder-Coated or High-Heat Paint Finishes:

• Use a soft cloth and mild dish soap as needed.

• Never use abrasives, which can scratch or chip the finish.

• Dry completely after cleaning to prevent moisture damage.

3. Routine Maintenance

Every 3–6 months (or after heavy use), inspect your pizza oven door for:

• Loose screws or hinges – Tighten them gently with the appropriate tools.

• Build-up of soot or ash – Wipe clean to prevent corrosion or sticking.

• Finish wear or rust spots – Touch up raw metal with stove polish, clear enamel, or reapply oil if desired.

4. Seasonal Storage Tips (If Applicable)

If your pizza oven isn’t in use during cold months:

• Store the door indoors or under cover to protect it from snow and rain.

• Apply a protective coat of oil, wax, or high-temp sealant before storing.

• Wrap in a soft cloth or towel to prevent scratches from other tools or equipment.

5. Treat It Like a Tool—Not Just Decor

While pizza oven doors add beauty and authenticity to your outdoor space, they’re meant to work hard. Clean them after heavy use, protect them from moisture, and never slam or drop them, especially if they include glass inserts or custom hinges.

If your door was custom-made to fit your oven or include a family brand or emblem, treat it with the same respect you'd give to a cast iron skillet or a good saddle—because these things aren’t just for show. They’re built to serve you for decades.

Need a Recoat or Custom Refurbishment?

We offer refinishing and touch-up services for many of our pieces. If your door has been through a wildfire, a harsh winter, or just years of backyard use, get in touch and we’ll walk you through your options for a refresh or replacement part.

View Our Pizza Oven Door Collection »

A well-built pizza oven door isn’t just a functional tool, it’s a reflection of your values. Durability. Beauty. Craftsmanship. With just a little maintenance, your door will continue to serve and impress long after the fire dies down.

Want more tips on caring for hand-forged ironwork? Reach out to us anytime. We’re happy to help.

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Maddison Mellem
Writing from the forge at Old West Iron