Wrought iron offers a stately, timeless look.
Fencing is available for residential properties in a wide variety of styles and materials. Wood, vinyl, wrought iron, aluminum and composite are the most common materials used for fencing. The right type of fencing for your needs is determined by the cost, how well the material lasts in your weather environment and how much maintenance you are willing to do. Does this Spark an idea?
About Wrought Iron Fences
Wrought iron gives a solid and traditional look for properties that lasts many years. These fences are often seen on historic and high-end properties because of the essential beauty and grace that wrought iron provides. The term "wrought iron" is used for a number of steel materials that were once worked or "wrought" by blacksmiths. Today's modern manufacturing techniques use improved steel products that offer the look of these older materials with better qualities.
Advantages of Wrought Iron Fences
Wrought iron, that is, steel products are durable and substantial. Steel can be worked into many designs, both traditional and modern. The material is welded together, which gives it outstanding strength. Wrought iron fencing will last decades and keep its good looks with periodic cleaning and painting. The material is generally galvanized to reduce corrosion from moisture, according to the Iron Fence Shop website. Wrought iron can vary from the inexpensive to high-priced products hand-made by blacksmithing artisans.
Disadvantages of Wrought Iron Fences
Wrought iron, being made of steel, is subject to corrosion by water and oxygen, which cause an iron oxide coating on the surface of the metal that we call rust. Though wrought iron can be coated in many ways, such as paint or powder coating, any slight damage in the coating can allow the intrusion of moisture. Small bits of rust must be removed from the surface before re-coating of the fencing.
About Aluminum Fences
Aluminum is another metal frequently used for fencing material. Aluminum is made from bauxite, a mineral that is mined in various areas of the world. The material is processed into a durable material that lasts for years. Aluminum can be worked into many designs that simulate traditional wrought ironwork.
Advantages of Aluminum Fences
Aluminum fencing is much lighter in weight than wrought iron and so is easier to install. It costs generally the same as mid-grade wrought iron fencing. Aluminum does not rust like steel does, however, so it is the preferred material in environments with high humidity and the presence of salt spray. Aluminum is generally given a powder coating, which is pigment applied electrostatically along with a resin compound. This gives it a long-lasting paint finish that lasts for years. It can be re-coated when needed.
Disadvantages of Aluminum Fences
Aluminum fencing can become dented or bent in high-traffic and high-use areas. It is not as strong as wrought iron and may become weakened over time, according to the Columbia Fence website.
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