There are many benefits to adding a fence to your landscape: you increase your home's overall value, create dimension in your yard, and give your property a protective barrier.
An ornamental fence in particular adds beauty to your landscape as well as protection. There are many ways you can customize your ornamental fence to meet your needs whether you choose wrought iron, steel, or aluminum for your project.
Before you decide on ornamental fencing for your yard, talk to a
fencing contractor
about a few things.
WHICH FENCING MATERIAL SHOULD YOU USE?
Ornamental fences are typically made of metal that has been pressed and molded into intricate designs. Fencing panels and gates are typically comprised of wrought iron, steel, or aluminum. Finishes in copper or brass can be added to fencing material if you wish. Explore the differences of wrought iron, steel, and aluminum for fencing use.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is a durable metal that is easily molded and cast in intricate designs and patterns. Extremely weather resistant and very hard to damage, you can expect a wrought iron fence to last for many years. Wrought iron also requires little maintenance, although the material can rust if exposed to prolonged moisture. Consider painting or applying a sealant to wrought iron once installed to maintain its beautiful patina, longer.
Steel
Steel is also used in decorative ornamental fencing, although it doesn't have as much flexibility as wrought iron when it comes to intricate design work. However, steel is extremely durable, easy to install, and will not rust, making it an ideal option for your ornamental fencing needs if you want a basic decorative fence with little maintenance required.
Aluminum
Popular for its durability, aluminum is also used for ornamental fencing. While aluminum is not as strong as steel, the metal is still durable and requires very little maintenance. Aluminum also will not rust.
Aluminum, like wrought iron, can be stamped and designed in creative patterns or beautiful fencing tips that are attractive and enjoyable. Aluminum also comes in a variety of hues to match your property's design best and is very easy to install due to its lightweight appeal.
WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET
Your budget will largely determine not only the type of material you choose for your decorative fence, your budget will also determine whether you can have custom finishes placed on your fence tips or gate.
Overall, wrought iron is your most expensive option, although the hefty cost is outweighed by the fencing material's longevity.
Steel is difficult to install and is also very expensive, but like wrought iron, will last many years installed properly.
Aluminum is likely your cheapest option (depending on metal prices in your area), and if your fence is professionally installed, aluminum will last for many years. If choosing aluminum fencing, opt for powder-coated materials to increase the longevity of your fence (and to make your investment well worth it).
Have your fencing contractor measure your yard and discuss your design needs for an ornamental fence with you. Compare the costs of wrought iron, steel, and aluminum fencing together to see which option best fits your budget and design needs.
Speak to your fencing contractor about whether or not you should combine metals to complete your fencing needs: you may be able to have gates made of aluminum for decorative appeal while having the rest of your fence comprised of durable, streamlined steel, for example.
Never attempt to install an ornamental fence on your own. Instead, rely on our expert team of fencing contractors to provide you with a beautiful yard barrier. Call us at Mid-State Fence today.