Wrought iron fencing is a luxurious choice. It provides the security of metal fencing usually topped with sharp finials to deter intruders. However, wrought iron fencing also offers a wide range of styles, from modern minimalism to historically ornate. For that reason, a wrought iron fence can complement any style of house. Read on to learn about some of your options with wrought iron fencing.

Metal Fencing Materials

As the name suggests, wrought iron was originally forged of iron. However, the metal is heavy and prone to rust. Most modern fences are made of solid steel, steel tubes or aluminum tubes, usually powder coated for color and to prohibit rust.

With solid steel, the manufacturers machine then weld the tubes together. This type is the strongest metal fencing option. Tubular steel, on the other hand, consists of sheets of bent into hollow fence parts and is second only to solid steel in strength. Lastly, tubular aluminum consists of prefabricated panels that resemble steel fencing. One benefit to aluminum fencing is that it will never rust.

Styles of Wrought Iron Finials

One of the biggest benefits of choosing wrought iron fencing is the adaptability. This benefit comes through in the finial styles.

The basic finial style is the spear head. As the name suggests, the top is pointed - this point deters intruders from trying to climb over. An adaptation of this style is the triad spear, which features a central spearhead flanked by two smaller pointed ends.

A beautiful option for a security fence is the fleur-de-lis finial. This finial looks a little like the triad spear with three points. However, the flanking points are curved down to create the characteristic flower shape.

When security isn't an issue, homeowners choose a spearhead style that dulls the points. One is the spear and ball, which features a rounded metal ball on top of the spear point. The hoop and spear configuration features a metal hoop over every other spear. Typically, these spears are also topped with metal balls.

Another option for fencing is a double rail at the top. This topper usually features rings framed between the two rails and neighboring pickets. Such a topper is common with pool fencing.

Wrought Iron Adornments

Adornments for wrought iron fences and gates are numerous. Besides the fleur-de-lis, classic styles include leaves, rosettes and scrolls. You can pick these separately or as part of a decorative panel.

No matter the style of fencing, an artistic gate can complement it. Such a gate might have classic adornments, or you can choose modern geometric styles or even panels that have been cut with special designs. Gates can be further adorned with crowns and frame accessories.

Putting It All Together

One of your first considerations for designing a wrought iron fence is the style of your house. Generally, historic and traditional homes call for more elaborate designs, while clean lines complement modern houses.

In that vein, you'll want to decide how much of a visual profile you want your fencing and gate to take. An ornate fence in stark black makes a bold, classic statement. It's also possible to highlight beautiful areas of the fence or gate with color. However, some homeowners prefer a lighter color so the landscaping takes center stage.

Another consideration is your need. If you're worried about intruders, you'll want to choose pointed finials and a fencing style that further deters intruders from trying to climb. For example, you may want to choose fencing without ornamentation since that can provide a foothold.

Choose a metal that works best for your maintenance needs and a style that complements your house while meeting your security needs. Duke Fence Co., Inc., can provide a wrought iron fence and gate that add curb appeal and value to your house.