Metal sculptures, while durable, often face structural challenges due to environmental exposure and material limitations. The most frequent issues include welding cracks from thermal stress, metal fatigue caused by repetitive stress, corrosion from moisture exposure, and warping due to temperature fluctuations.

Welding cracks typically appear at joint points and are addressed by grinding out the damaged area and re-welding with compatible filler metals. For metal fatigue, reinforcement with internal armatures or additional support structures prevents further deterioration. Corrosion is mitigated through protective coatings like wax or specialized sealants, while bronze sculptures benefit from regular patina maintenance. Warped sections may require careful heat straightening or partial reconstruction.

Preventive measures include proper installation with vibration dampeners, climate-controlled display environments, and annual professional inspections. Advanced techniques like laser scanning help detect subsurface flaws before they become visible. By combining these solutions, artists and conservators can significantly extend the lifespan of metal artworks.