Is Wrought Iron an Ideal Material for Gates?

Popular Wrought Iron Steel Panel

Gates mark the entrance to your living space. They provide guests and passers-by an impression of the residents. Wrought iron gates do exactly this, but are they the best options? How do they match against steel gates and fences? Find out below.

Why does wrought iron not rust?

Wrought iron can rust—it is iron, after all. But when cared for and coated regularly, it can last a lifetime. How is that?

Wrought iron is a strong version of the metal. Being shaped and stretched under high heat, it is rich in carbon. Such nature as well makes it easier to recondition compared with other metals, especially cast iron.

How can you tell if iron is wrought?

Wrought iron is easily crafted in various intricate shapes, like ornate ironworks for gates, railings, fences, wall decorations, and gates. It is more resistant to corrosion and rusting, is denser, and has a slightly grainy wood texture when compared with steel and faux iron.

But if you don't trust your eyes, there are tests you can do to check for the genuineness of your metal gate or fence. Here are the common ones blacksmiths and metal workers use:

1. Break Test

Take half-inch square and cut it with a saw halfway. Bend the remaining connection. You will see smooth fracturing and fine grains on the break if it's genuine wrought iron. The higher the quality of the metal, the finer the grains.

2. Polish Test

Polish a sample on a plane parallel to its length. This will expose its bright surface and linear slag inclusions that form its grain.

3. Spark Test

Take a grinding tool and use it on your sample and a mild steel sample. Wrought iron will throw long reddish sparks with a few branches, while mild steel will produce white sparks.

Things to consider when selecting and customizing your wrought iron gate

1. Rust-proofing

Galvanizing wrought iron is one way to keep it from rusting. It is done by applying layers of zinc to iron to produce a rust-resistant wrought iron. It can be:

ㆍSprayed on - This galvanizing technique makes use of a mist sprayer or a handgun applicator and is often utilized on large-built wrought iron installations.

ㆍHot dipped - This is an ancient technique of proofing iron, wherein iron is submerged in molten zinc multiple times while drying in between each coat. This creates layers of zinc-iron alloy and zinc metal and gets in all surfaces and corners.

2. Construction and Hardware

Welding is still the best method in connecting wrought iron rods together. While some DIY projects you can buy at the local hardware use screws or brackets, such materials may rust, especially when they are not “compatible” with wrought iron. They get in the way of aesthetics as well as they usually come in silver or brass finishes, which are in total contrast with the typical black and muted gold railings of wrought iron gates or fences.

Wrought iron vs steel gates - which is better?

They may be both metals but, from a scientific perspective, iron and steel are completely different. Iron is a naturally occurring metal, while steel is a man-made alloy. But when building a fence or gate, which makes for a better option? Below is an outline of the pros and cons of each to help you make your choice.

Decorative Ornamental Wrought Iron Rosette Flower

Steel

Pros

1. Steel can be manufactured at a low price.

2. It can resist corrosion better than iron.

Cons

1. It is difficult to create ornate and intricate designs using steel.

2. While steel is almost corrosion-resistant, it is not as durable as iron.

Wrought Iron

Pros

1. Wrought iron is extremely durable. It has been used in building fences and doors since even before the Victorian era.

2. It is low-maintenance and does not corrode or rust easily.

3. It is heavy, so it makes for a great choice if security is a concern. Sturdy wrought iron fences can deter wild animals and most vehicles.

4. Wrought iron, when heated, is easy to bend and mold, making it a perfect choice even when aesthetic  and property value are the top priorities.

5. Since it is naturally sourced and recyclable, wrought iron does not add to the earth's carbon footprint.

6. While iron rusts, maintaining it is simpler than other materials.

Cons

1. Transportation and installation may be a struggle because wrought iron is heavy.

2. Cost can be expensive as it requires skill to be created and manpower to transport.

Whether you're getting wrought iron driveway gates or a steel fence, your choice should mainly depend on your needs and preference. If you're working on a tight budget and need a material that will do just the work, it's not bad to opt for steel.

But if you're willing and can shell out a bit more, a wrought iron gate or fence is your best bet. It has been proving its durability and keeping intruders out since time immemorial.

We offer custom wrought iron gates. If you are interested in our products, please contact us now!