The Classic Wrought Iron Fence

Nothing can set of the beauty of a classical garden as well as a wrought iron fence. For centuries, wrought iron has been used to make many metal items, from the humble nail to the majestic ship's hull. Now, since steel is readily available in large quantities, this type of iron is mainly used for fencing and other decorative ironwork. In fact, even iron fences and gates these days are often made from mild steel that is fashioned to look like it is made from this type of iron instead, although small amounts of the original metal is still needed and used to restore structures on historical sites.

Usually wrought iron fence designs are varied, and there are many choices when it comes to the actual design of the structure, as well as the way it is mounted.  Oftentimes, due to these types of fences being considered more formal in nature, they are used in conjunction with either bricks or concrete, which are usually used to form the base that it sits on, as well as sometimes pillars that are located intermittently around the fence.  Usually the metal is formed into a design that is repeated around the perimeter of the fence, and classic designs often include both straight lines and curled and curving lines. The patterns may sometimes be something clearly recognizable such as a flower or another object, or simply a pattern such as a scroll pattern.

These fences are normally not considered very good security, their main purpose is usually to showcase a house, garden or other property.  Homeowners will often secure their back yard with a solid fence that passersby cannot see through, and have these more decorative fences around the front of their home so that people can appreciate the beauty of their garden.  Front fences also play a part when it comes to the value of a home, in enhancing the curb appeal of the property.

Wrought iron fence gates are sometimes used on the front of a property, either with a similar style gate or attached to a solid front wall. There are situations where homeowners want a measure of privacy at the front of their home also, and they erect a solid brick or cement wall.  That is where the more decorative gate can help to break up the monotony of a solid fence, and yet provide fairly good security at the same time.