How to Repair a Broken Iron Bed Frame
An iron bed frame that has broken parts can be repaired by welding the pieces back to the joints. However, if you have not welded pieces of metal together in the past, better leave the job to the professionals. Have the broken parts welded and then do the painting yourself. If you do have welding skills, then this project should come pretty easy.
Tools and Materials
- Welding Machine
- Protective Gloves
- Protective Clothes
- Helmet and Eye Protection
- Welding Hammer
- Paint Stripper
- Paint
- Paintbrush
- Fine Grit Sandpaper
- Wire Brush
- Sealing Compound for Welds
Step 1 – Preparations
Remove the paint off the broken pieces of iron using paint stripper to prepare it for welding. Wash off the solvent and use a wire brush to clean the surfaces. If not, sand the surfaces with fine grit sandpaper. Borrow or rent a welding machine and purchase the necessary equipment – rods, gloves, and helmet and eye protection.
Step 2 – Prepare the Welding Machine
Do not simply connect the welding machine to any electrical outlet. Know the recommended size of the connection wires to ensure that they do not overheat and melt the insulation. Always observe welding safety procedures when doing this project. Read and follow the machine’s manufacturer’s manual to ensure safety and correct usage. Insert the rod into the receiving end of the machine and get ready for welding.
Step 3 – Weld the Pieces Back Together
Wear all recommended welding equipment before starting the operation. Ask for help from an assistant to hold the pieces together while they are welded back into position. Usually, the broken parts of the bed are located in the joints. They may not have been welded properly or the bed received too much tension when it was in use.
Apply sealing compound onto the surfaces of the pieces to be joined together to ensure a watertight fit. Position the rod onto the joint and begin welding. Remember to cover both eyes with the helmet before touching the rod to the joints. Tap the rod on the iron to strike an arc. Weave the rod onto the joints side to side. Once the joint is sufficiently connected, leave the weld to cool off for a couple of minutes. Chip off any excess weld using a welding hammer. Be careful when chipping so as not to damage the weld. If there are any other broken joints, weld them together in a similar fashion.
Step 4 – Paint the Entire Bed
To conceal the repairs and protect the iron bed frame from rusting, it is necessary to paint it with a preferred color. Clean the metal surfaces with a wire brush to remove any debris. Prime the bed evenly with a rust-inhibiting primer. Allow the primer to dry. Choose a paint specifically designed for metal. Apply several undercoats to the bed and let each coat dry before applying the next. Coat it finally with a thick layer of finishing coat. The paint should hide any repairs and keep the bed rust-free for many years.
