Wrought Iron versus Steel Fencing

rusty fence

Steel fencing is not as durable as iron fences and we’ll tell you why!

Iron is made when iron oxide is extracted from ores that occur in nature. The iron oxide is heated between 1,600 and 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit from a carbon source of either charcoal or coke, which is made from coal. The carbon bonds with the oxygen into a molten mix; this removes the oxygen leaving only the metallic elements. This is known as smelting. While both wrought iron and steel are made during this process, steel is not a pure at wrought iron. Before choosing a fencing material, it is important to know the differences between the two materials in order to make the best decision for your lifestyle.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron is known for its durability. It requires little maintenance and can be made into creative designs. However, this beauty is heavy and can be extremely difficult to handle. Because of this difficulty, wrought iron is typically the more expensive option of all fencing. Although it is durable wrought iron has been known to show weather damage over the years. It can corrode or rust in the elements. Wrought iron can be treated for rust and painted to avoid spreading.

Steel Fencing

Also known for durability, steel has a greater tensile strength than wrought iron. Tensile strength is the measurement that is required to pull an object like a rope or wire. However, steel may show more vulnerability to corrosion than wrought iron. Steel fencing is more prone to rust than wrought iron and can corrode easily because of the impurities in making the steel.

When choosing a type of fencing for your residential or commercial properties, it is best to speak with someone to see if that type of fencing fits your lifestyle as well as the style of your home or business.

HERCULES FENCE CUSTOM IRON

With security and the added bonus of a pleasing aesthetic appeal, wrought iron may fit your needs. Hercules Custom Iron has more than 70 years of experience crafting glass fences, ornamental iron, and quality aluminum in its in-house manufacturing facility. Contact Us today to learn more about how we can help you with your next custom iron, specialty metal or aluminum project! Also, be sure to follow Hercules Custom Iron on FacebookTwitter and LinkedIn!

This entry was posted on Friday, July 10th, 2015 at 7:52 pm. Both comments and pings are currently closed.