Choices in Ornamental Fencing Metals

When you want to improve the look and value of your home or business, choosing ornamental fencing is an excellent way to go. As you evaluate which option is right for you, keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages of each type of metal typically used.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron may be the phrase often used to describe ornamental fencing, but wrought iron is a unique option all to itself. The term "wrought" is an old version of the word "worked," meaning that the metal has been worked by a blacksmith while the metal is hot. This iron has a low amount of carbon mixed in with the iron.

Because wrought iron has not been used since the 1970s in a large scale, individual artisans may be your only option to have a wrought iron fence or gate. This will likely increase the initial cost and lead time of your fence, as well.

However, wrought iron is incredibly tough, corrosion-resistant, and easily welded, giving you many years of beautiful, hand-crafted fencing.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is different from wrought iron because the metal has a higher carbon content mixed with iron, as well as the possibility of other metals. Because of this difference, cast iron is much more brittle and cannot withstand the same process as wrought iron. It does, however, have great compression strength.

Cast iron is heated until it is liquid and then poured into molds, where it is allowed to cool and solidify. It also shrinks very little as it cools, meaning the finished project will remain close to the molded size.

This allows for many ornate and detailed options in your fencing. It also is highly resistant to corrosion. If you choose either wrought iron or cast, these fences should be painted or powder coated to keep rust from forming.

Steel

Steel fencing is still an iron and carbon mix, but other metals are added to help strengthen and lengthen the life of the fence. As is typical with steel construction materials, it is incredibly tough and strong.

Usually, two types of steel are used in fencing: solid and tubular. While both have similar strength and durability, tubular steel is a hollow piece, making it easier to ship and install. Solid steel will also have more limited designs available.

As with both wrought and cast iron, steel fences need treatment to resist oxidation. Steel is usually galvanized, or taken through a quick dip of zinc to coat it. Once it is galvanized, it can be powder coated to increase weather and water resistance. It can also be painted to better match the aesthetic of your home or business.

Aluminum

Using aluminum in fencing has been a relatively recent addition within the last fifty years. It has many properties that make it a good choice. It is the most cost-effective of all fencing material options.

Because no iron is present, it cannot rust, making it a good choice for locations that may deal with a lot of moisture from rain, snow, sprinklers, or seawater. It also does not react to chemicals used on lawns and shrubs.

Aluminum is also highly malleable, so it can be shaped into any number of desired designs to enhance your property. One disadvantage of that malleability is that it has low impact resistance, making it less ideal in areas where truly severe storms are a regular occurrence.

It is very lightweight, making it easy to install, and it can be powder coated with whatever color you choose so it can blend in or stand out as desired. If you use welding instead of nuts and bolts for the joins, that can help strengthen the fence, as well.

No matter what your fencing choice is, we at Sam's Welding, Inc , are available to help you make the best choice for your particular needs.