Although they seem similar; wrought iron and steel are about as different from each other as night and day. Wrought or “worked” iron is created when liquid iron is combined with a material called slag that helps it maintain a low carbon content. The various processes for making wrought iron require years of dedication and training as it is an artisan trade that is usually passed on from generation to generation.
Steel; on the other hand, is made by combining iron with other elements and compounds to create an alloy. It’s manufactured using workers, machines, and robots that work in huge mills or foundries.
So when considering which material to use for your home’s gate and fences, and whether you should invest in wrought iron or steel, keep in mind these three main aspects:
Wrought iron is consistently durable when skilfully handled. On the other hand steel’s mass production methods can result in inferior, low-quality products. The cheaper steel gates usually hint for the less durable material.
There is a reason why many wrought iron products and structures that were built long ago, nowadays look absolutely unaffected by time. Wrought iron gates are less prone to corrosion and weathering, and with proper care can last for generations.
Wrought iron is amazingly flexible as it comes to working it into intricate designs and shapes. Wrought iron fences and gates can be highly ornamental, and can add to your home’s curb appeal.
So when choosing between wrought iron and steel; remember that wrought iron offers many advantages that most types of steel cannot. For sheer beauty, longevity, and durability; wrought iron just can’t be beat.
With over 35 years of experience in ornamental iron work, Cacciola Iron Works can create a one-of-a-kind custom wrought iron gate and fences that will add safety and a touch of decorative elegance to your home’s exterior, and we will work with you to design and create whatever motif or style of fence or gate you require. We also create iron balconies and rails for both interior and exterior use, as well as aluminum railings and balconies. Give us a call at 973-595-0854, send us a fax at 973-595-6712, or contact us online for all of your iron and aluminum custom projects; your questions, and for more information.
Many homes nowadays have some type of gates or fencing surrounding them. While there are a number of options available such as vinyl, wood, aluminum, etc. when it comes to material for your fencing and gates, wrought iron is considered the best among them because it offers many benefits.
Following are 6 benefits of using wrought iron for fencing and gates:
1. Security
Security is the primary concern of homeowners and when it comes to gates and fencing, wrought iron is the perfect material to provide security to your property. Having a sturdy wrought iron fencing around your property acts as a deterrent to intruders. You can also use automatic openers on wrought iron gates for enhanced security and convenience.
2. Easy Installation
Many wrought iron manufacturers cater to the DIY market. Their fences are designed and manufactured in panels, which means you can install them easily over a weekend. This easy installation is one of the primary reasons many homeowners choose wrought iron for their fencing. You simply need to set the posts 7-8 ft. apart in concrete, use the horizontal frame for the mounting bracket, and then screw it onto the post. It is as easy as that.
3. Ease of Maintenance
Although the initial cost of wrought iron fencing and gate installation is relatively higher than other materials, the low maintenance costs make this material a preferred choice of many homeowners. Wrought iron requires very little maintenance and when it does, you simply have to use a wire brush for scrubbing, clean water for rinsing, and new coat of paint if it’s painted. That’s all that is needed. And if there is any minor damage to any part of the gate or fence, you can easily fix it without replacing it.
4. Adds Elegance and Value
In addition to offering peace of mind and security, wrought iron also adds elegance and value to your property. No other material can give your property the same level of elegance as is offered by wrought iron. It is known as one of the most versatile materials for gates and fencing because it provides many advantages.
5. Durability
Wrought iron is more durable and long-lasting than any other type of fencing material e.g. vinyl or wood. A fence or gate made up of wrought iron is not only durable against day-to-day wear and tear but is also capable of withstanding unexpected damage such as a vehicle hitting it badly. Because of its durability and elegance, this material is one of the most popular choices for fencing.
6. Lots of Design Options
Wrought iron comes in a variety of shapes and designs, so you have a freedom to choose the one that best suits your home’s theme and style. There are plenty of design options available, as well as the ability to have a design custom made, both for gates and fences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wrought iron may be relatively more expensive than other fencing and gate materials but it is still a preferred choice of many homeowners because of the number of benefits it offers. All in all, wrought iron gates and fencing is definitely a good choice if you are looking for something that can give your home a high level of security, elegance, and privacy.
For top-notch automatic gates for your home or business, Superior Gate Services is the trusted local choice. To get ideas and to see some recent examples of our work, take a look at our gallery page. When you are looking for a new gate or any related equipment, we welcome you to either contact us through our website or call us at (855) 747-4283 and one of our friendly representatives will be glad to answer any questions you have.