Rusting of cast-iron fireplaces

[Beatrix]

Hi there,
I have a couple of old black cast iron fireplaces is my house and they are beginning to rust. Any suggestions on how to treat/put a stop to this?
Thanks.

 

[angela59]

Hi

Would you black lead them - it is a bit like shoe polish - and give it a bit of elbow grease.

 

[mathepac]

Good old fashioned steel wool (not Brillo pads) and Zebra stove black.

 

[Beatrix]

They were actually retouched recently (by a professional I might add!!) so the rust is coming through the new paint. Is there something I can apply to make sure this doesn't happen again? Also, what is Zebra Stove Black and where can I buy it?
Thanks.

 

[Carpenter]

I think it's actually called "Zebo"; anyways its a type of paste wax (similar to shoe polish) which blackens cast iron and prevents rust. It will rub off though, so be careful where you use it.

 

[Thirsty]

I've never painted my cast iron fire place - not sure it's a good idea to start.

However, I stick by the advice I got donkeys years ago which was to rub it all over with a cloth and a small amount of Johnson's baby oil; always brings it up nicely and no problems w. rust.

 

[angela59]

Hi,

Yes I couldn't think of the name but Zebo and and small tooth brush for ornate areas and a cloth - the fact that they have been painted I'm not sure whether the polish will take to the paint. I have a 19th century fire place and I have only ever used this type of polish on it - once it is done you hardly ever need to go near the fireplace.

 

[Beatrix]

Thanks for all the suggestions. Where would I pick up Zebo?

 

[angela59]

Hi Beatrix,

You would get it in a smaller hardware I'm sure - it is black and yellow stripes like a large tupe of toothpaste and ZEBO in black writing with a red background.

 

[mathepac]

Apparently neither Zebo or Zebra (there was a Zebra brand as well) Grate Black is manufactured any longer. This site lists alternatives www.bedfordhardware.co.uk/Zebo Product Detail.htm

I have no connection with the site; it was listed when I searched for the two products.

I agree with previous posters. I don't believe paint on a cast-iron fire-surround is a good idea. I have seen it done before, but seldom successfully.