Metal fences are a popular choice for residential and commercial properties across the UK due to their durability, security, and attractive appearance. When selecting a metal fence, the two main options are wrought iron and steel. Both offer distinct advantages and considerations. Consulting with experienced fencing contractors Aldershot can provide valuable insights into choosing between wrought iron and steel fences, ensuring that your selection aligns with your specific needs and preferences while meeting industry standards.
Wrought Iron Fences
Wrought iron fencing is made from nearly 100% iron heated and hand-forged by skilled blacksmiths. The term “wrought” refers to the manual process of working iron into decorative designs. Wrought iron fences have been used in Europe for centuries and carry strong cultural significance in the UK.
Wrought iron is valued for its unmistakable old-world charm and artisanal qualities. It effortlessly complements period homes and countryside cottages but also brings a classic elegance to modern properties. The hand-worked nature of the material makes each fence one-of-a-kind.
Advantages
- Extremely durable and long-lasting: Properly maintained wrought iron fences can last over 100 years. The pure iron is resistant to corrosion and withstands outdoor exposure.
- Customizable and ornate designs: Skilled blacksmiths can twist and shape the pliable iron into elaborate decorative motifs like fleur-de-lis, vines, and scrolls. Every fence can be uniquely personalized.
- Timeless curb appeal: From Gothic revival mansions to quaint bungalows, wrought iron harmonizes beautifully with any architectural style. The vintage styling enhances charm and perceived value.
Disadvantages
- Prone to rust if not cared for: Wrought iron needs regular upkeep like paint touch-ups to prevent corrosion. Coastal areas require extra vigilance.
- Higher upfront cost: The extensive manual production process increases expenses over other metal fences. But the long lifespan offers an excellent return on investment.
Steel Fences
Steel has surpassed wrought iron as the most widely used metal for modern fencing. Mass production makes steel fences affordable and readily available. The material composition typically includes a mix of steel, aluminum, and synthetic coatings to inhibit corrosion.
Steel offers the strength and security of metal fencing with more flexibility for contemporary design styles. It can be molded into everything from classic picket patterns to formidable fortress-height estate gates. Maintenance requirements are lower than wrought iron.
Advantages
- Great strength and durability: Steel alloys create sturdy barriers able to withstand weather and physical impacts. Properly coated steel fences last 20-30 years.
- Lower maintenance: Protective Metallic Coatings minimize corrosion compared to bare iron. An occasional cleaning is all that’s needed in non-coastal settings.
- Design versatility: Steel can be cut, welded, and powder coated in any color or finish. This facilitates customization for landscapes from refined to funky.
Disadvantages
- Higher initial cost than wood or PVC fencing
- Coastal areas require frequent touch-ups: Salt air can wear down protective coatings and lead to rust if vigilance lapses.
Are Metal Fences Suitable for All UK Climates?
Metal is among the most climate-resilient fencing materials. Both wrought iron and steel stands up well to the damp, windy weather the UK is known for.
Coastal or High Moisture: The salt air does accelerate corrosion in coastal areas. This simply means more frequent repainting for wrought iron and re-applying protective coatings on steel. Stainless steel alloys provide enhanced coastal durability.
Cold and Snow: Arctic fronts pose no problems for metal fencing. In fact, the slick surfaces make it harder for snow to accumulate and stick compared to wood fencing.
Wind and Storms: Metal fences are engineered to be non-porous for maximum wind resistance. Sturdy posts anchored in concrete ensure the整structure remains fixed and stable.
Hot Weather: Iron and steel easily withstand UK heat waves without issue. For hotter climates, aluminum is an alternative worth considering.
Maintaining Wrought Iron Fences
- Check for any visible rust once or twice a year, especially crevices and joints
- Lightly sand problem areas before repainting to restore protection
- Brush loose paint flakes prior to recoating bare metal
- Use high-quality exterior primer and paints for metal
- Target 5-7 years between full paint jobs
- Hose down fence monthly to prevent dirt buildup
Proper prep and repainting are essential for wrought iron longevity. Seek professional help if severe rusting occurs.
Can Steel Fences Match Different Architectural Styles?
Steel offers outstanding versatility for matching a home’s existing architectural personality or creating custom ornamental touches.
Contemporary: Sleek steel cable infill systems with minimalist steel posts epitomize modern aesthetic
Farmhouse and Cottage: Black powder-coated steel with matte finish blends perfectly with countryside homes
Victorian and Edwardian: Intricately detailed steel imitation of wrought iron looks elegant against period trimmings
Southwest Adobe: Steel fences and gates shaped into organic curves or rustic twig patterns complement desert architecture
Wrought Iron Look: Textured coatings like galvanizing or black oxide create a convincing wrought iron lookalike
Imaginative powder coating and coating choices make steel fences extremely adaptable design-wise.
Are Metal Fences Eco-Friendly?
Metal fences have the smallest carbon footprint among fencing materials and are highly sustainable.
- Very long lifespan keeps waste out of landfills
- Sturdy durability means no frequent replacement
- Metals have excellent recyclability at end-of-life via smelting
- Manufacturing process has markedly lower emissions than concrete or plastics
- Protective coatings are water-based with low VOC content
Well-built metal fences stand the test of time for generations and don’t require virgin materials for replacements. This exceptional “reduce, reuse, recycle” profile makes them a green fencing choice.
What is the Average Lifespan of Metal Fences in the UK?
When properly installed and maintained, metal fences are built to last for decades.
- Wrought iron fences typically enjoy lifespans exceeding 100 years. Time and weather serve mainly to enhance their vintage character.
- Steel fences range from 20-30 years depending on climate and upkeep. More protective maintenance is needed near oceans.
- Other factors like fence height, post spacing, and bracket thickness also affect durability.
Choosing reputable manufacturers and qualified installers gives the best odds of maximizing lifespan. With simple yearly upkeep factored in, metal fences make a lifetime investment.
Cost Analysis
Wrought Iron Fencing
- Materials – £150-300 per linear meter
- Installation – £100-200 per linear meter
- Total Project Cost – £250-500 per linear meter
Steel Fencing
- Materials – £50-150 per linear meter
- Installation – £100-250 per linear meter
- Total Project Cost – £150-400 per linear meter
Wrought iron involves intensive craftsmanship so carries a premium price tag. But the resale value and generational lifespan deliver excellent long-term value. Steel fences offer more budget-friendly options with durability that still hits the 20+ year mark.
Aesthetics and Design
Wrought Iron
- Gorgeous Old-World Styling
- Matchless Customizability
- Hand-Forged Artisanal Quality
- Ages Gracefully Over Time
Steel
- Contemporary Styling Palette
- Powder Coating Color Flexibility
- Lower-Maintenance Appearance
- Mimics Other Metals like Aluminum
For those seeking decorative flair and vintage romance, wrought iron is unrivaled. Steel offers sleeker modern aesthetics focused more on function than ornate detail. It “gets the job done” security and privacy-wise with lower lifetime upkeep demands.
Maintenance Requirements
- Wrought Iron
- Monthly hose downs
- Check for rust 1-2 times per year
- Spot paint touch-ups as needed
- Full paint job every 5-7 years
- More vigilance needed in coastal areas
- Steel
- Quick hose down several times per year
- Monitor closely near oceans
- Reapply protective coatings after 15-20 years
- Occasionally tighten loose bolts
Wrought iron needs more frequent and attentive maintenance to uphold its delicate beauty. Owners should consider hiring professionals periodically. Steel is quicker and simpler to preserve yourself using basic cleaning and inspection. But don’t take coastal corrosion lightly.
Comparison and Considerations
Wrought Iron
- Time-Honored Beauty
- Customizable Artistry
- Impeccable Durability
- Higher Initial Cost
- Yearly Maintenance Essential
Steel
- Contemporary Styling
- Efficient Strength
- Lower Long-Run Cost
- Lower-Maintenance
- Less Customization Potential
There’s no universally “better” option between these noble metals. Choose wrought iron to invest in an artistic heirloom with vintage personality. Opt for steel to prioritize convenience while still getting durable protection. Evaluate your budget, design tastes, and lifetime upkeep commitment before deciding.
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