Grate Polish won't stick !!

[Anonymous]

I've just stripped the paint off our cast iron fireplace insert and want to apply some grate polish. The problem is it doesn't seem to want to stick to the metal surface. I'm using Hotspot and it seemed to work fine and the actual grate but not on the insert.
Anyone know why?

 

[Anonymous]

Surface very smooth possibly?

Or try giving the metal a thorough clean with fine wire wool and white spirit.

 

[Anonymous]

Yes, the surface is very smooth but that's just the way it is after removing the paint and rust etc... I don't think I could roughen it up much either.....
I'll try the white spirit thing too, thanks.

How can I blacken a very smooth surface?

 

[Anonymous]

I found Hotspot not as sticky as other grate polish - it may be worth trying Stovax or Liberon.
Otherwise, matt black paint and wax polish, but that's not got the same finish as a real grate polish.

 

[Anonymous]

Stovax do a black paint that might be better in your situation. I think it sticks better to smooth steel than the traditional rub on and polish off stuff in a tube that works better on the slightly rough surface of cast iron.

 

[Anonymous]

I've long admired the shiny metal fireplaces in Kenwood House. Much grander than cast iron. Could it be that they're polished steel? In which case, does anyone know what they polish them with, and how they stop them rusting?