A guide to understanding iron finishes, how they age, and what’s best for your space.
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Whether you're designing a rustic fireplace, restoring a centuries-old barn, or outfitting a new build with heirloom-quality details, choosing the right iron finish is as important as choosing the hardware itself. The finish doesn’t just affect the look—it also determines how your hardware performs over time, especially when exposed to the elements.

In this guide, we’ll explore the three most common finish options: raw iron, patina, and powder coating—including the pros and cons of each, indoor vs. outdoor use, and how to choose the best finish for your space.

What Is Raw Iron?

Raw iron is just that—untreated, unsealed metal straight from the forge. Its natural gray-silver tone carries organic variations and a rugged charm that develops character as it ages.

Best for:

• Indoor spaces where moisture exposure is minimal

• DIY projects where you plan to apply your own sealer or finish

• Those wanting a true industrial or antique look

Keep in Mind:
Raw iron will oxidize and develop a rust patina over time, even indoors if exposed to moisture. You can seal it at home with a clear coat spray or wax to slow the aging process.

What Is a Patina Finish?

Patina refers to a hand-applied chemical finish that mimics the aging of iron over time. At Old West Iron, our patinas are hand-painted, heat-cured, and sealed, offering the best balance of beauty and long-term wear.

Choose from 10+ Signature Finishes like:

• Oil Rubbed Bronze (our most popular warm-toned finish)

• Black Wash (a striking vintage charcoal look)

• Rust Powder (authentic weathered appearance)

• Copper Plate (for a subtle metallic glow)

You can also:

• Request a custom color match to your existing hardware — just send us a photo.

• Choose unfinished raw iron and finish it yourself or have it done locally.

Best for:

• Indoor hardware and some covered outdoor areas

• Projects requiring custom aesthetics or historic accuracy

Not ideal for:

• Full exposure to rain, snow, or marine environments without touch-up over time

What Is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is a commercial-grade process that bonds a protective color layer to the metal surface using electrostatic charge and heat. This offers high durability and weather resistance, but a less artisanal look.

Old West Iron does not do powder coating in-house, but we can have it done locally for an additional fee or ship your product raw so you can powder coat it after delivery.

Best for:

• Outdoor installations in harsh climates

• Coastal or marine environments

• Those prioritizing protection over historical appearance

Trade-Offs:

• Lacks the hand-applied texture and depth of patina

• Typically only available in standard matte, gloss, or satin finishes

Indoor vs. Outdoor: What’s Best?

Have Something Unique in Mind?

At Old West Iron, we know no two projects are the same. That’s why we offer the option to:

• Choose one of our hand-applied signature finishes

• Request a custom paint match

• Provide a photo for a close replication of your existing hardware

• Opt for raw steel and finish it on your own schedule

For a custom quote, simply contact us here and attach your photos or reference info.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re going for rustic charm, industrial edge, or long-term protection, your finish choice shapes the personality—and durability—of your wrought iron hardware. With the right finish, your ironwork becomes more than a detail… it becomes a lasting statement.

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Written by the Old West Iron Forge Team — crafting authentic American ironwork from our Idaho forge since 2011. Experience-backed, veteran-built, and proudly Made in the USA.