Three Things To Consider When Choosing Your Ornamental Iron Fence
An ornamental iron fence, also referred to as wrought iron fencing, can last a lifetime with proper care so it's important to choose a design that you will love for many years. The following are just a few of the things you should consider when deciding on your fence style.
Determine Your Maintenance Threshold
All wrought iron fences will require periodic maintenance. To guard against rust, the fence needs to be protected by an unbroken coating of paint. Over time, the paint can chip or wear away, exposing the iron to oxygen and eventually rust. To counteract this, iron fences are typically sanded and repainted every few years. If you prefer to keep this task easy, avoid the incorporation of too much decorative work and scrolling in the fence design. Smooth pickets and rails, for example, are much easier to sand and paint than those that are curved or feature etched designs.
Choose Your Level of Security
Wrought iron fences can be more than ornamental, they also provide security. Your first decision will be the height of the fence. A low fence can work well to contain children and pets or to mark a property line to prevent inadvertent trespass. Fences of at least 5 to 6 feet tall are necessary if you want to ensure more thorough security. Picket spacing is also a consideration. Pickets should be spaced closely enough to prevent a child from getting their head stuck. These narrower openings also prevent intruders from squeezing through the fence. Finally, look to the top of the fence. Both the main posts and the pickets on an iron fence have finials, which can be rounded, squared off, or pointed. The pointed pickets do more to discourage intruders compared to the smoother designs.
Add Decorative Touches
Your final consideration is the decorative touches that make the fence attractive. If you are opting for a lower-maintenance fence, then simple, minimalistic lines are the better option. You can utilize decorative finials to add some interest to the smooth lines. If maintenance isn't a concern, then consider twisted pickets and decorative elements like shaped finials (for example, you can find finials shaped like eagles or other animals for a highly decorative look). The gate is often the place where most decorative touches are concentrated, such as pretty scrollwork and curlicues, and custom work like personal monograms worked into the iron.
For more help with your fence design, contact an ornamental iron fencing service like Canyon Fence Co.
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