Whenever you replace a fence, you have an opportunity to do an upgrade. If your old fence around your property needs replacing, you may be weighing the advantages of steel and iron. Which would be best?
Steel and wrought iron have some similarities but also plenty of differences that may help you choose which would work best for your business. Here’s a comparison of the two to help you decide.
Cost
First, remember that iron is just iron, while steel is iron plus carbon. Steel is the less expensive of the two materials, so if you have to add to your project or go higher, steel has an advantage. The fact that steel has carbon in it makes it easier to work with and to cut into lengths, so that also has some cost advantages.
Workability
Steel is easier to work with than iron, being lighter, which counts when you’re trying to lift it and hold it in place. You will probably need a smaller crew to work with a steel fence than an iron one.
The carbon in steel allows it to be worked into different shapes, which is important if you’re going for artistic effects.
Durability
Although steel will last longer than iron, the fact you can see iron breaking down means you can take measures to prevent damage. Steel on the other hands breaks suddenly on impact – not a desirable quality if the fence will see lots of use. Wrought iron may need more repairs, but steel may need replacement.
Maintenance
Steel is easy to weld, because carbon heats up quickly. But iron welds hold for longer.
Iron rusts, so needs attention; steel has chromium and nickel in it to make it rust resistant, but not all steel fences are rust proof. Non-rust-proof steel fences can rust quicker than iron ones. Always plan to maintain your fence, be it steel or iron.
Steel and iron are easy to paint.
The Look
Iron has a dignified look, giving the appearance of having been in place for a long time even when it’s new. Steel is shinier, and if you prefer a sleek, contemporary look, it’s probably the best option.