When shopping around for a fence, you might get confused with terms such as “steel” and “iron” which are often used interchangeably. So what are the differences between those two?
In manufacturing, people generally give wrought iron gate and steel fence the same meaning. In the scientific sense, steel is considered an alloy while iron is an element. Simply put, iron is a standalone product from the earth while steel is an item made of iron and carbon.
Wrought Iron vs. Steel Fence
There are many interesting differences between a steel fence and wrought iron gate, aside from the latter being an opening in a barrier and the former being a kind of barrier.
The biggest difference between those metals is their primary source. Iron is a raw element that can be found in nature. Steel, on the other hand, is produced by a combination of two different elements.
Strengths and Weaknesses
After identifying the sources of these two different metals, the next thing you should know is their pros and cons. Learning the strengths and weaknesses of each material will help you better choose the right fencing that matches your home.
In terms of steel fencing, the biggest benefit is its cost. Steel can be manufactured at a low price, which means items made of steel are often cheaper than those made of iron material. It’s worth noting, however, that creating intricate designs can be quite difficult when using steel, whereas more detailed designs can be easily achieved using iron.
While steel can resist corrosion better than iron does, you may still need to replace steel fencing more often than you would iron gates.
On the other hand, the most obvious advantage a wrought iron gate would have over a steel fence is durability. It is probably one of the strongest and longest-lasting metals you could use for fencing. It is extremely low-maintenance as well, and more likely to preserve its original appearance over time.
One disadvantage iron has is that it’s extremely heavy, which means it can be more difficult to install.
Finding the Right Fence for You
Whether you’re planning to get a steel fence or wrought iron gate, the type of metal you will select will mainly depend on your needs and wants. For instance, homeowners who want to secure their property should choose wrought iron for its better safety features. On the other hand, if you are working around a tight budget, then you might want to consider steel fencing for your home.
Still can’t decide which metal works for you? Then consider combining steel and iron in order to get the best of both worlds. Doing so allows you to install high-quality fencing while keeping your property safe at all times. It also lets you have a modern-looking fence that increases the curb appeal of your home.
To make sure that you’re buying the right fencing for your home, whether it involves a wrought iron gate or another type of gate, get in touch with a metalworking professional who can suggest great fencing types for you.