The Contemporary Look

Is it easier to come up with an ornate or contemporary design? For me, it's easier to come up with an ornate design. Ornamental items, such as scrolls or baskets, can be added to an ornately designed iron project and the placement of those components doesn't have to be perfect. As a matter a fact, imperfections can add character to an ornate design. There are usually several different types of architectural components incorporated into an ornately designed piece, so anything that appears out of the ordinary becomes interesting. On the other hand, when you're viewing a contemporary iron design, one with crisp edges and clean angles, any imperfection becomes an eye sore. More attention to detail is definitely required when designing something contemporary.

Sometimes, a contemporary design can appear too plain. If you add a little angle here or a horizontal rail there it can become too busy. What I would say about a contemporary design is that it's all about balance and equality of the objects. Contemporary designs are sometimes thought to be boring and too plain but I believe that's quite the contrary. There is nothing more intriguing and interesting than a well designed contemporary iron piece.  It usually embellishes an equally beautifully designed contemporary home or commercial building.  There are times, when, by adding a well designed contemporary iron design, the look and concept of a building becomes complete and artistic.  

When dealing with a contemporary look, the finish is extremely important.  There are many powder coat colors that mimic the look of stainless steel without the expensive cost of building your project out of stainless steel.  There are wonderful nickel, platinum and bronze powder coat colors available too.  Some of the  powder coat colors come in a pearlescent finish.  The pearlescent finish actually picks up different hues and lighting effects.  That’s a great way to glam up your contemporary iron design without adding more decoration.

Whatever you do, make sure that your contemporary design is just right for you, your home’s architecture and your lifestyle.  It takes time but conquering close to perfection in a contemporary design is achievable!   

 

 

 

 

Creating Unique Designs

Creating an iron design for my clients is not always easy. It's so difficult to show exactly how a scroll will look or whether picket collars verses picket baskets will be appropriate. When I meet with a customer I ask them to pick out some existing iron designs that catch their eye. Once I see what type or style of iron design that the client has chosen then that gives me some direction. There are literally hundreds of different elements that can be added to iron to make it beautiful. Most of the time, my clients want something unique to them, something very special that will compliment their surroundings and will last for many, many years.

It may take several tries before actually coming up with a design that is perfect. I also take into consideration how practical the iron design is for the application. If my clients have small children, then cable type railing is not a good idea. The cables sag over time and if small children are climbing or hanging on them that will speed up the sagging process. If I'm asked to design a pool fence of gate enclosures there are even more limitations. The design cannot be climbable, it has to have very specific spacing between the pickets and it has to be at least a certain height.

If someone wants a railing design then there are different top rails to choose from. The following questions have to be asked; is the rail to serve a specific purpose? Is this rail to be used by an elderly person who might need a very graspable top rail? Are there children in the house that may catch their little hands on a sharp scroll end? At certain heights there are specific code requirements that have to be adhered to.  These are just some of the things to take into consideration when creating an iron railing design.

Once I've narrowed down what my client wants, and their taste, then it's time to roll up my sleeves and put together some sketches.

We seldom hand forge our own scrolls or components. Labor is expensive and it would cost a fortune to have these items hand made by our craftsman. There are several companies that sell beautiful, solid, hand forged components. These components are made from different types of steel. I refer to each steel type as a family. If my client is particular about using only solid steel components, then I'll look in the solid plain bar family. If my client wants many scrolls or components then to help reduce the weight I'll use components from the tube steel family. There are also lovely designs that are made from solid flat bar or solid round bar. There are hammered, twisted and scored components to choose from to enhance your design. The possibilities are limitless.

To add some dimension, I'll combine square material with round material. The combination really works well and looks completely unique. Remember, it’s important not to box yourself into using specific materials.  You may love the twisted or roped picket look, but in the end, it may not fit into the style you’re trying to achieve.  Have an open mind, don’t limit yourself, and have fun with using different ornamentation . . . you may be surprised by the final product. 

Installing Masonry Pillars - Let's Talk Steel Posts

When I receive a call from someone who has had their masonry contractor build stone or stucco pillars and they're telling me that now they're ready to install a driveway gate, it immediately leaves a pit in my stomach. If the pillars do not contain a steel post with hinge connections then we may have some problems. In some cases, the stone or stucco pillars are not made sturdy enough to allow for an iron driveway gate to be attached.  If this is the case, then you most likely will need separate steel posts installed outside the pillars taking away from the idea of why you had the lovely pillars built in the first place . . . and this also adds more to the cost after the fact.  A little investigative work and inquiry in the beginning of a project really helps eliminate any headaches later on.

Before beginning your pillar project, contact your local steel fabricator. Even if you're not sure about installing a driveway or walk gate now have the pillars made so that you can in the future. Talk to your local iron fabricator; explain your situation and what type of pillars you intend to install. Your fabricator can design a steel post with special hinge attachments that can be given to your masonry contractor to install inside the pillars. By doing this, the steel hinge attachments will be present and you can easily have an iron gate attached . . .  and, it can be a bonus when you go to sell your home, the new homeowners will be able to install “their” custom designed iron gate without any hassles.

The sketch below illustrates how the steel post and hinge attachment looks inside the finished pillar.

 

Forever Designs

Don't be shy when choosing a wrought iron design for your gate, fencing or railing. There are classic styles of iron that have endured throughout the ages. Why not add some flair to the classics, make the design your own, and enjoy it forever? You can accomplish this by spending some time to determine what components you love; look at gates, fencing or railings when your on vacation or a day trip. That's the best way to start, go to an area where there are lots of wrought iron pieces. Check out each and every one, take pictures, examine the designs, pick out the elements that suit you and will suit your home. Remember, you can always mix and match components such as spears, picket baskets, intricate scrolls, picket collars and more. Don't be afraid to use different materials like flat bar, square solid bar, tubing and round bar. The mixture of these elements adds character to a design and makes it extremely unique and doesn’t take away from the "classic" look. Frankly, it's hard to make wrought iron look anything but classic. It's sturdy, durable, intricate, ornate and sometimes even delicate.

Take a moment to determine what style of wrought iron that you like.  Do you want your design to be bold and big, or do you want it to be free flowing and contemporary?  Do you love a Victorian look, something almost lacy looking in design; this can be accomplished with cast iron components.  Cast iron has an almost old world look to it.  Cast iron is a bit more brittle than hand forged iron because the steel is melted and then poured into casts, so keep that in mind when considering it for a gate that might be used often. 

A very classic design of wrought iron is accomplished through the use of solid steel components, spear tops, and picket collars.  This design can further be enhanced with scrolls.  Have fun with your design, you won’t be wrong no matter what you decide. 

 

Security Barriers

 

A good deterrent to strangers is the installation of a gate and fencing. There is no guarantee when it comes to protecting your property but there are measures that you can take to help stave off intruders. If you have an open porch area, you may want to enclose it, especially if it leads directly to your front entry and main door. If you have an open yard area you may want to install fencing. A fence can be designed to frame your home and set off its architectural style while creating a barrier.

There are many ways to create a lovely porch enclosure. There are factors like height and width to be considered but in most cases a porch enclosure is very doable. Some things to keep in mind are; how wide do I want the gate opening of my porch enclosure?  How high do I want the porch enclosure? What type of locking mechanism do I want on my gate? How will visitors let me know that they're at my door? How will I block people from reaching through the gate to unlock my deadbolt? Your iron fabricator will have answers for you and will be able to show you various locking mechanisms that might work for your situation. Your fabricator can also come up with a design that will enhance your home's exterior.

The cost for an iron front porch enclosure can vary by design, height and width and how many openings need to be enclosed. If you have photos of your home's porch, know the measurements and have a design picked out, then you can email that information to local fabrication companies in order to obtain approximate pricing.

Fencing is usually installed around the backyard perimeter of a property, especially if there is a swimming pool present. Consider installing fencing around your front yard, it's beautiful and creates another obstacle for someone trying to enter your property uninvited. Again, nothing is fool proof but by making it harder for an uninvited guest to enter your property might make them think twice and move on to another less protected home.

Why Do We Love the Look of Wrought Iron So Much

Wrought iron has been part of architectural history forever.  It's a symbol of strength, wealth and longevity.  Wrought iron exudes excellence and power, it's beautiful and graceful, but most of all it's ageless.  An iron gate or fence establishes a boundary, it's like a do not enter sign framed in elegance.  A homes exterior is enhanced by it's presence, it's the finishing touch and the icing on the cake. 

Wrought iron compliments any architectural style.  You can design it to have a contemporary look by using clean lines and angles, you can create an ornate design by implementing scrolls and flower components, you can create a traveling vine or a blossoming overhang, you can design something that is musical or lyrical, the possibilities are endless.

We love wrought iron because it allows us to embrace true art but art that has a purpose.  It signifies security without taking away our artistic freedom.  It's beautiful while all the time it's serving a purpose, it's a chameleon and we love the surprise.  Most of all we love the permanence, the comfort that it will be with us for a very long time, we can rely on it, it's like an old friend that we can depend on not to disappoint, and it doesn't. Wrought iron is power, it is our protector as we are it's admirer.  So, why wouldn't we love it!

Why Are Automated Driveway Gates So Expensive?

Before deciding that you must have an automated driveway gate evaluate your actual need for one. If you currently have a manual driveway gate and you enter or exit your property one or two times a day, then it's not much trouble to get in and out of your car and automation may not be necessary. If you have a manual driveway gate, and you come and go from your property many times a day, then automation is must. If you don’t currently have a driveway gate but would like to install one, and are considering automation, start out by inquiring into costs. After you find out the cost then you can weigh the need.

An average driveway usually measures about 14' - 0". If you choose a very basic design for your gate, but still keep it  custom made, in a double swing layout, rectangular shaped, with no frills or extras, primed and painted black and installed, that will probably cost you between $4,500 to $5,500. If this fits into your budget then you might want to upgrade by adding iron components to your design to make it a unique look. Ask your iron fabricator about styles and pricing.

Now that you've established that a manual double swing gate fits into your budget, let's talk automation. Let's use the basic rectangular double swing gate design as mentioned above, this design will not be as heavy allowing several choices in gate operator systems (gate operators are based on height and weight of the gate panels).  With the double swing design you will need gate operators to open both panels. The least expensive option is an arm operator. There are many good arm operators to choose from. Whatever you do, don't skimp when it comes to choosing an operator, you don't want it to break down; you want something you can depend on. Keep in mind, that for a double swing gate operator it will be necessary to concrete cut across your driveway so that the electrical can be run from one side of the gate to the other. When the concrete is cut, the wires laid, and the area refilled, you will still be able to see where the cut occurred. There is no way to match older concrete or asphalt to the new filler. If you love the look of your driveway this option may not be for you.  There are also pad mounted units; these normally cost about 40% more than the arm operated unit.  They require that you buy two separate units for the double swing gate application.  Each unit requires that a concrete pad be installed adding to the cost of the installation.  Keep in mind, that in order for pad mounted operators to be an option, you must have enough room on each side of your gate for the unit to fit.  Your iron fabricator will know how much room is needed for the unit you choose. 

Once you've decided on the correct operator then you need to ask about safety devices. If you want your driveway gate to shut behind you automatically and open automatically when you exit then safety devices must be installed. There are several options for safety features. Loop detectors being the most popular. Loop detectors are electrical wires that are embedded into your driveway (again, your driveway will have to be concrete cut so that the wires can be installed). Loop detectors pick up the presence of metal. If a car is detected, in the area where the loop detector has been installed, than the gate operator will not open or close and this protects the car from being hit by the gate. Another option is photo eyes. These are installed on opposite sides of the driveway and a beam of light extends from one eye to the other. If the beam is broken then the gate operator will not open or shut. There is also a safety edge that’s available and it is installed on the gate itself. The safety edge can sense the presence of an object and will reverse direction so that the object is not hit.

Now that we’ve discussed safety devices we must talk about how your guests and maintenance people are going to enter and exit your property.  There are a lot of new options available and many new devices are coming onto the market daily. A telephone entry system is the most expensive option. In order to install a telephone entry system a dedicated telephone wire must be present at the point where the system is installed. This type system allows you to distribute codes or someone can ring your telephone from a button on the entry system. Many systems today have the option of ringing your home phone and then rolling over to other phone numbers including cell phones. If you want to eliminate the need for telephone wiring altogether then you may want to consider a system that requires only a Sim card, this unit works like your cell phone. Once the Sim card is installed there is one button that the guest can push and once pushed your cell phone will be contacted and you can open the gate using a key on your cell phone. The down side to this system is that there isn't a keypad so you can't distribute codes to individuals. There is also a digital keypad; this does not require a telephone line at all.  The digital keypad allows you to distribute codes to those that need them, i.e. – maintenance people, family and friends and does not connect to any telephone.

All these extras do add up.  The cost to install loop detectors adds about $3,500.00 plus to your project. If you wish to have a telephone entry system, then add another $3,000 - $4,500 depending upon the unit. If you wish to have a digital keypad only, add about $800.00 to the cost.  If you like the idea of the Sim card type system, add about $2,000.

Don't forget, that if you install an automated driveway gate the Fire and Police departments have to be able to get into your property. You must contact your local Fire and Police Departments to ask them about Knox Box Switches. Your local Fire Department has an application that they'll have you complete and then you'll be told what Knox Box Switch to purchase. This switch has to be connected to your gate operator so ask your iron fabricator to include hook up in the price.

I hope this gives you an idea of why automated driveway gates are so expensive.  They are worth every penny, for security reasons, if you have high traffic going in and out of your gate and when the weather is foul.  If you aren’t sold on automation then have your manual driveway gate installed and live with it for awhile.  Automation can always be done at a later date.

Why Do Some Iron Designs Cost More?

I'm often asked why one gate design costs more than another. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a gate design is the intricacy. Remember, labor is what costs and in many cases the material cost is really secondary. If you choose a gate design that requires cutting and shaping of the pickets that will drive up the cost. If you have a design that requires arches, (and they are beautiful) that drives up the price. This is especially true if you want more than just the top of your gate arched. Any interior arches have to be calculated and bent accordingly, that takes time.

Once a gate design is chosen it has to be drawn so that the shop personnel can make it. If you choose a more intricate design, then it takes longer to draw, adding to the price of the gate. When you integrate components into a design that will add extra time to the fabrication process. If you choose a large component, over several small ones, that may help to reduce the labor time but it may increase your material cost. Some of the larger components are amazing but expensive.

Even the smallest detail can add extra work to the project. You might not realize, but by adding an extra picket collar here or there or an additional interior rail or two that increases the cost. Each time you add an extra item, that item has to be cut, laid out, welded and cleaned. If the project is extremely elaborate then it takes more time to apply the finish too. If you are opting for a powder coat finish, the powder coater will consider how long it will take to apply the powder to scrolls, picket collars or any other small or large component design.

My recommendation is to start with a design that you love, make it as intricate looking as you wish, and if the price is prohibitive then start removing some of the elements. It's better to start at the most expensive price and remove items rather than start at the least expensive price and be shocked when you get to the design you desire.

Iron verses Wood Fences

If you're in the market for either a wood or iron fence call around to fence contractors, talk with them about pricing, the pros and cons of wood verses iron fencing and the purpose that you want the fence to serve. If you're trying to meet a tight budget then iron fencing is probably not for you. Plain wood fences are usually less expensive than any type of iron fencing. There are factors to consider, like design and details that may drive up the price of wood fencing. Talk to an expert before making any firm decisions or discounting iron fencing altogether.

If you're looking for a barrier that is solid and very private then wood fencing is a wonderful choice, but there are ways to design a custom iron fence so that it offers the same privacy by incorporating a solid plate into the body of the fence. If you want partial privacy, then you can incorporate a perforated metal panel into your iron fence design, this helps to buffer what can be seen through the fence. There are many ways to make each of these options even more attractive and that’s by adding hand forged iron components. Again, if price is an issue then these two options may not be feasible. Both options are extremely beautiful and depending upon the architectural look that you're trying to achieve can be perfect to complete your backyard project.

Before contacting iron fence contractors come up with a budget for your project, especially if budget is the driving factor.  You may be asking yourself “How can I come up with a budget if I don’t even know the first thing about how wood or iron fencing is priced?”  Good question, because that’s normally the case for most people.   Begin by selecting a local fence contractor, give him the measurements of your project, the height that you want your fence and the location of where the fence will be installed (include whether the fence posts will be embedded in dirt or concrete).  If your fence contractor accepts email send some photos of designs that you like and pictures of the area of installation.   Ask for pricing for a basic wood fence design and pricing for basic pre-manufactured iron fencing, that’s a good starting point.  Once you obtain these prices then you can establish your budget.  Establishing a budget will make it easier to determine if iron or wood fencing is the right selection for you.  Once you’ve decided you can contact several other local fence contractors, send out pictures or a sketch of your design, measurements and photos of where the fence will be installed and they should be able to give you a ball park figure for your project allowing you to compare pricing.  Once you select the contractor that’s right for you, then he can come to your property to answer any questions, measure precisely and firm up the design and pricing.

Happy fence shopping!



 

What Are My Options When Installing A Driveway Gate?

You're at the point where you want a driveway gate. You've scoured the Internet for gate designs, you've painstakingly sketched out what you envision your driveway gate to look like and you believe that you've done the homework required to collect estimates. Then, you contact the first iron fabricator and that's when the questions begin. The following is a list:

• Do you want a manual or automated driveway gate?
• If you want your gate automated, ask about the operators available, the choices are many.  Keep in mind, that you don't want the cheapest operator out there.  There are many good medium priced operators and that will be your best bet.  A medium price for a single swing gate operator is about $1,400.00 including tax and freight. This does not include the price to install the operator.
• Do you have electrical available at the point where the gate operator will be installed?
• How will you exit and enter your driveway gate if you're on foot?  The best option is to have a walk gate installed adjacent to your driveway gate (if you have the space).  If not, a keypad can be installed.
• If you're interested in a double swing gate, are you okay with having your driveway concrete cut?  This has to be done in order for the electrical to connect to both sides.  There is a new operating system available that works like a blue tooth eliminating the need for wiring to stretch across your driveway.  This might be a good alternative for some applications.
• What type of safety devices do you want installed?  If you want your gate to open automatically when you leave your home and close automatically when you enter or exit then you will need safety and exit loop detectors installed.
• If I install a single swing gate what are my design alternatives?  Most driveways measure at least 11' - 0".  As you can imagine, that is a very wide expanse.  When you have one wide panel it can be very heavy and can cause the gate to sag.  One good way to help with the sagging is to install heavy duty adjustable gate hinges.  This won't eliminate the sagging problem altogether so you may wish to implement a solid kickplate at the bottom, or a diagonal bar that extends from one top corner to the opposite bottom corner.  This helps with rigidity.  Most people think a kickplate is for beauty only but it also serves a purpose.
• How will my guests and maintenance people enter through the gate?  There are several options.  You can install a keypad and distribute codes.  You can have a telephone entry system installed.  If you choose this option then the guest will press the telephone key and that places a call to your phone.  Once you determine whether or not you want the visitor to enter then you can press a button on your phone to activate the gate.  There are also entry systems that communicate directly with your cell phone.  Unlike the telephone entry keypad systems, this does not require that a telephone wire be installed.  This system is operated like your cell phone with a Sim card. 

Another issue that you may run into with an automated single swing driveway gate is that due to it's lenght it will gain momentum as it opens and closes.  It's not the best idea to have a gate that opens and shuts in a speedy manner so that's something to consider.

Educate yourself on the best options for a driveway gate. You'll be ahead of the game if you find out what is available, what designs are best and whether you want a manual or automated gate, not to mention what fits your budget. Don't scrimp when it comes to automation and remember that you’ll have this gate for many; many years to come so why not make it the best design possible, one you’ll love and be proud to have as the entrance to your home.

Do I Always Have To Schedule An Appointment To Obtain Pricing?

In this day and age, of high gas prices and time constraints, it isn’t always necessary to meet in person to discuss pricing for an iron project.  There is a way for an iron fabricator to come up with approximate pricing without scheduling an appointment.  This of course is dependent upon the type of iron work you’re looking for and the degree of difficulty.  Obtaining pricing over the phone is especially helpful if you're only looking for a budget price. Keep in mind, that pricing may change once you meet but it is usually by a nominal amount.

If you are in the beginning stages of your project the first step is to pick out a design. This can easily be done by perusing websites. Look at photos of designs appropriate to your project. Print the designs that you like and download them to save on your computer.

If you’re shopping for a price, the following is especially helpful and will save you time and aggravation. The best way to find a good iron fabricator is through recommendations. Ask your neighbors or friends for references. Stroll through your neighborhood, look for homes that have an iron design (that you like and looks like a solid product), and ask the owner what contractor they used for their project. In most cases, people will be happy to share contact information of the iron fabrication shop that they used. You can also ask that person questions about the project to further educate yourself. You probably want an iron fabrication shop that is in your local area, so asking neighbors is a great way to find someone nearby. If you choose a shop that is a distance away, be prepared for a higher price because of the travel time.

Now that you have a recommendation(s) of an iron shop (or several shops) to contact, there is a little more work for you to do. When discussing your project with an iron fabricator, they will first need to know about what design you've chosen. Since you've already downloaded some images, you can email them, and include the measurements for your project. The necessary measurements will consist of length and height.  If the project is on a slope include that information. If you have a HOA then inquire about codes and compliances. Ask your fabricator if he can provide you with plans for submittal to your association if that is a prerequisite.

It is important to know what type finish you want on your project. The standard finish is usually primed and painted black. Another option is powder coating; this is a great option if you want to have a color or texture. There are also attractive patina's available but keep in mind that powder coating and patina's are usually at an additional charge.

If you choose an intricate design then your project will be more expensive. I find it's important to begin with presenting a design to your fabricator that you love.  This gives the iron fabricator an idea of your taste and architectural style. If pricing comes in too high, and you can’t have exactly what you want, then you can work with the fabricator to come up with a design that is more cost effective but still desirable.

The last bit of information that your iron fabricator will need is how, and where, the iron design will be installed. Take pictures of the area of installation. It's important to take several pictures so that the fabricator has a really good idea of the degree of difficulty in installing your project. An iron fabricator will look to see if your project will be installed in dirt verses concrete. If you're installing a gate, then he'll look to see if there are existing pillars that the gate will attach to and will question you about the stability of those pillars.

If you’re installing a driveway gate it’s important to figure out if you want that gate automated and what safety devices you will require.  Figure out if you’ll need a telephone entry system or a keypad.  Ask yourself how guests and maintenance people will enter and exit through your automated gate.

Once you’ve gathered all this information, then it can simply be emailed to your fabricator(s). Once your iron fabricator receives all the information then he can make a good estimate of what the project will cost right over the phone.

If you follow the outline above and contact your iron fabricator will all the facts then you can save yourself time.  With this information, your iron fabricator should be able to provide you with a budget price.  Once you receive this price, you’ll know if your project is affordable and doable.

Gate Latches

If you’re installing a walk or entry gate you will have to consider what type of locking mechanism to use.  This is also the case if you’re installing a manual driveway gate.

If you are installing a walk or entry gate then there are many options. The standard closure for a walk gate is a gravity latch or a slide bolt. Either latch is a good device if you wish to have your gate accessible most of the time.  If you are going out of town, and would like your walk gate to be made safe, a gravity or slide bolt latch can be secured with a padlock if necessary. Another option is to have a deadbolt and entry lever installed.  This is one of the more popular choices; it gives a more finished look and is easily secured.  There are also magnetic gate locks, they can simultaneously open or lock the gate from either side. It usually uses a 6-pin security lock that can be conveniently re-keyed (by a locksmith) to match other Kwikset house hold door locks. 

If you are installing your walk gate around a pool, then you will need your gate to be self-closing.  There are both hydraulic gate closers and spring gate closers.  Make sure that the latch you choose meets code for your project. 

If you desire an upgraded lock you may want a Mechanical pushbutton lock.  Dependent upon the mechanical lock chosen, there may be varying functions.  These locks allow for various ways of managing entry by code, by key and by passage mode operation of the lever handle. 

Most manually operated driveway gates are held closed with cane bolts.  If you want further security, you can include a slide lock so that you can padlock the gate shut when needed.  Another alternative to securing driveway gates is to automate them with a gate operator and either wireless keypads or a telephone entry system.

As you can see there are latching options available for every budget and that will accommodate most projects.  Ask your iron fabricator which latch is best for you.

Privacy Screening

There are times when it is necessary to have a gate or fence that either filters or blocks the view from the outside world. HOA's or CC&R's will sometimes require that a boat or recreational vehicle be blocked from view of the street. There are ways to accomplish this and still have a beautiful iron design.

Perforated panels can be welded to the gate or fence panels to filter the view. A perforated panel helps to camouflage things that are located behind it. This is not the solution if you need to block the view completely but it helps to diminish what can be seen. Perforated panels come in many different hole sizes. Ask your iron fabricator to show you some samples.

If you want to block the view completely then consider using solid plate.  The plate is welded to the back of the fence or gate panels. Solid plate is sturdy and completely blocks anything from being viewed. 

If you think your iron design will look too plain using either of these privacy options, don’t despair, you can always add iron components and pickets to the design.  It’s easy to design a gate or fence that is beautiful but gives you the privacy you require.

If you choose either type of panel, you might consider powder coating over painting as your finish.  Powder coating gives a very smooth clean finish to solid material.  Any type of steel material will have flaws and the larger the surface area the more flaws you’ll have.  Powder coating helps to hide those flaws.   The baked on finish, along with the UV protected colors, will enhance your iron design and help it to last for many years to come.

  

Custom vs Pre-Manufactured

Pre-manufactured iron products are really the way to go if you are on a tight budget and are not concerned about design. You can buy pre-manufactured fencing or gates that are basic in design for much less than custom. The reason for this, is when you buy a pre-manufactured product you are limited in the type of materials used. The product is made in a plant, somewhat like an assembly line, powder coated at the same facility, and shipped to the iron shop. The size of the materials that are used generally range from tube steel 1/2", 5/8" or 3/4" square, with a 18 ga. wall, for the pickets and tube steel 1" or 1-1/2" square, with a 14 ga wall, for the top, bottom rails and gate frame. There's nothing wrong with this type of product and when you need a lot of it this can really save you money over custom.

On the other hand, custom designed iron is completely different from pre-manufactured. Although the same size tube steel is used the wall thickness is usually much greater. When custom designing iron, you can also incorporate many iron components like scrolls, circles, picket collars, arched or inverted arched top and more. The wall thickness of iron is very important and if it’s in your budget ask your fabricator to use the thickest materials available.

Another benefit of a custom design is the finish. A standard finish for a pre-manufactured product is black powder coating. If you choose a custom design, you can opt for a patina, specialty paint color, or powder coating with an array of colors to choose from. The different designs and finishes for a custom product are really limitless.

Choosing custom iron design over pre-manufactured is like choosing to purchase a track home verses a custom home, neither is better or worse, it’s all about what fits the budget.

What is a picket?

Have you ever heard the term "Picket Fence" before? This type fence is normally made from wood and has vertical wood slats that are referred to as pickets. Iron fences, gates and railings are made on the same premise; the rails that run vertically are also referred to as pickets. I've heard them called all kinds of things from posts, rails, and those up and down things, to long rods and pointy things,  but normally they are called pickets, newels, and sometimes even balusters.

Pickets add a nice dimension to an iron project. They are always part of a pre-manufactured design. If you don't like a design that uses  only an iron frame and pickets, with no other ornamentation,  you can always jazz it up with the addition of pickets collars, scrolls, circles, spears or a kick plate . . . and much, much more.

If the "pickets" on a project run horizontally, are they still called pickets? I think that's probably a matter of opinion. I might be inclined to call them rails, but that of course depends upon the materials used. If we are talking about cable railing, then the term pickets won't apply, it's cabling. If we are talking about a railing that has horizontal flat bars, I might call those rails rather than pickets.  The terminology for horizontal pickets is probably best left to opinion. 

No matter what you want to call them, pickets are a lovely addition to any iron project.

Repair or Redo

Do you have an iron gate, fence or railing that is in need of repair? Maybe it's rusted, dented, or has been hit by something. When you have an iron design that needs fixing, it's usually more cost effect to simply replace it instead. We don't normally get involved with repairs unless it is something that we can easily remove and reinstall. When you're dealing with a repair, it more times than not isn’t worth the money you'll have to pay for it. There is a lot of work in repairing an iron design; it has to be removed, transported back to the iron shop, the repair needs to occur, the iron has to be cleaned, the damaged iron has to be removed and new iron reinstalled at the damaged area. There is no way to mimic the finish that’s on the existing iron because the finish has probably faded and there is no way to know what color finish was used on the original design. The best way to re-finish a repaired item is to strip and then repaint the entire project. You can only imagine how time consuming that is.

After the repair is complete the iron design has to be transported back to its original location and reinstalled. That's a lot of work for a repair and the charges can really add up quickly. When you are contemplating a repair, consider all new, think seriously about the costs involved and weigh your choices. For a little more money, you can more than likely have yourself an entirely new design with a finish that matches.

Security Barriers

What can you do to make your home or yard more secure without making it look like a prison? There is a simple solution, add an iron fence and gate. There are ways to make your fence look more secure by adding spears at the top. I know, when you think of a spear you envision a really sharp, ugly pointy thing, but that's just not the case. There are numerous styles of spears to choose from, some very ornate, some that are fleur-de-lis style and some that are just classic. You can even create a more industrial look by using pinched spears. Those are the spears that are part of the fence picket and come to a sharp point at the top.

A non climbable fence is another option. Keep the design simple, don't add a lot of interior rails or lattice. A plain iron fence, with spears at the top, and maybe a circle design, can create a secure but attractive barrier. Don't forget about securing your iron pedestrian gate by adding a deadbolt or mechanical push button lock.  There's no perfect solution to protecting your property but you can certainly make any intruder think twice before entering your premises.  .

Driveway gates can also be secured by adding automation.  It is very difficult for an intruder to push open an automated gate; they tend to be very tough.  It’s also nice not to have to leave your car to open a manual gate, you just have to click a remote and presto your gate opens automatically. 

Security doesn't have to be ugly, just practical. With a little creativity and help from your local iron designer you can have it all!

Cable Railing

Clean lines and a lustrous look, that’s what can be accomplished by installing cable railing. There are many different types and sizes of cable, it's all dependent upon the design you're trying to achieve. The cable is installed through the posts of the rail and attached to the outside of the post with a clevis type attachment. When there are several posts, the cable railing is simply threaded through the middle posts creating the look of floating cable.

Choosing cable railing is a wonderful choice, it's sleek and stylish. It's perfect for a contemporary home or a home with a nautical theme. The cables are made from stainless steel, so cable railing is not an inexpensive option, but it's so worth it. The posts can be made out of many different types and sizes of material. Many people opt for stainless steel posts and top rail, but by using these materials the price of the project adds up quickly. Another option, is to use plain tube steel or flat bar for the posts and top rail and then have them powder coated. There are many lovely powder coat colors to choose from and there are even some that mimic the look of stainless steel. Another great finish for the posts and top rail is plain steel that has been polished and then coated with Penetrol oil, this creates a more industrial look.  The different textures of the steel really shine through when using this process. If you want to add an interesting look to your railing design, one that shows off the different hues of the steel, then finishing with the Penetrol finish is for you. If you opt for the last option, this type finish can only be used on indoor railing because it will not hold up outdoors.  Keep in mind that when using the oil finish, it needs to be reapplied every so often.

Most steel fabricators can assist you with choosing the correct cable rail for your project. They can also provide you with examples of the different types of materials that can be  used for the posts and top railing. Ask your fabricator whether cable railing is the right choice for you.  If you have children, and they are climbers, you may want to reconsider using cable railing.  Cable railing will sag so keep that in mind.  If you want a fresh, clean look that won't readily go out of style then cable railing is the perfect choice!

Knox Key Switch

If you’re considering putting in an automated driveway entry gate, then don't forget to contact your local fire department about obtaining a Knox Key Switch. Many fire districts have different requirements regarding what Knox Key Switch they want you to purchase. Your local fire department will have an application that you can complete for the purchase of the Knox Key, and with their help you'll be able to choose the correct one. By installing a Knox Key Switch at your automated driveway gate, the fire department can use the Know Switch if they need to enter your property and without having to break down your automated driveway gate in the process.

I'm often asked, "Why have a secure automated driveway gate installed if anyone can open it with a key switch?" That's not the case, no one, other than your local fire department, can access that switch.  A Knox Key Switch is for your protection.

If you choose to include a telephone entry system with your automated driveway gate, then the Knox Key Switch can be installed directly onto the post that holds the telephone entry keypad. It's a more visible way to install the Knox Key and a little easier for the fire department to spot.

There are many particulars that should be considered when installing an automated driveway gate, little particulars that make a big difference, like a Knox Key Switch. Ask your iron fabricator to provide you with a list of items that will be needed and options that are available.

What's the Best Finish for Your Project?

There are several different finishes to choose from for wrought iron projects. The standard finish is primed and painted black. Black is a wonderful color choice because it complements almost all other colors, its classic and it is easily touched up. When you paint your project black, it will blend into the environment. You can also choose a specialty paint color, maybe one that matches the trim of your house or other existing wrought iron designs. If you choose to use a lighter color, like white, the eye is drawn to lighter colors and it will make your iron design stand out and be the focal point.

A patina is lovely and a very popular choice. You can achieve an "Old Worlde" look by having the right patina applied. There are numerous patina hues to choose from, selecting one is a matter of taste and coordinating with your existing color scheme. Patina's can hide the imperfections in the metal and often those imperfections enhance the look of the patina. It's a little harder to touch up patina finishes, but maybe you won't want to because it does add to the aged look.

Another option is to have your metal design powder coated. Powder coating is applied to metalwork to create a hard finish that is tougher than standard paints. The coating is normally applied electro statically and is then cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a skin. There are several benefits to powder coating. Powder coating is more hard-wearing and produces a much thicker coating than standard liquid paints and without running. When an item is powder coated it has fewer appearance differences (flaws) than liquid coated items (which show the direction of brush strokes and imperfections in the metal). Finally, powder coatings release near zero unstable organic compounds and their production waste stream is far less toxic than liquid paints. Another great benefit of powder coating is that many of the color choices have built in UV protection which helps with fading. In many areas, where the sun beats down much of the year, fading is a concern and powder coating your metal design may really help.

When choosing a finish, certain design elements must be taken into consideration to ensure that powder coating is a truly low-maintenance finishing choice for you. When homeowners pay extra money for a powder coat finish (powder coating does cost more because of the method involved and the fact that the product has to be freighted to and from the powder coater’s shop) they are paying to avoid the annoyance of touching up liquid paint for years to come.

Keep in mind, that when welding has to occur in the field, the powder coat finish is unavoidably marred and the welded joints must be touched up with spray powder coat paint. While the painted areas are not all that noticeable they will need to be maintained indefinitely. If you choose a powder coat finish that has a textured look, the touch up paint will be noticed because the texture does not come through in touch up paint.

If your project has a large area of solid steel, like a tall kick plate, then powder coating is a wonderful option. Powder coating is baked on and it lends a smoother look to the solid steel, camouflaging flaws and imperfections, making the steel look smooth and unmarred.

When it comes to metal, there's really no perfect finish.  Metal can be scratched or marred during installation and after.  Those areas have to be touched up in order to maintain the integrity of the finish.  Clients ask me what they can do so that they never have to touch up their architectural metal designs.  I wish I had a solution, but the fact is that metal rusts so just be aware and touch those areas up immediately.  Also, make sure that you keep your wrought iron away from direct water contact, that's imperative!

Railings . . . More than Just Beautiful

Do you have an area that you would like to make a little safer, say a small set of stairs or a deck?  The addition of a code compliant guard or stair rail will help to accomplish that.  I receive many calls from people that have a set of  stairs leading to their home's entrance.  These stairs may have been of little concern until an elderly person needs to come to live with them, or someone has tripped and needed a rail to brace themselves, then it becomes a very big problem. 

A stair railing can be a beautiful addition and very practical too.  Designing an easy to use rail top is very important, you want someones hand to be able to glide across the top rail without feeling uncomfortable.  Using a piece of round tube steel as your top rail is a very good choice.  The hand can form comfortably around the tube steel making it easy to grasp and hold on to. 

Let's face it, we all want to feel secure when climbing or descending a set of stairs. A railing can also add value to your home and beauty too.  Installing a railing is often a small project so the monetary output is minimal but the gain immeasurable.  Compared to many other wrought iron projects adding
railing is a win win situation.

Arched or Straight Gate Top

I love an arched top on a gate.  There are so many different arch designs, each creating a different look.  Having an arched top in your design will add a little extra cost to the project.  The labor involved in bending the arch does add to the bottom line but it may be minimal, so don't be afraid to ask before eliminating that idea all together.

The most important aspect of an arched design is the size steel that you use for your frame.  The larger the steel, the more difficult it is to bend.  Likewise, if you choose a steel size that isn't square, maybe use flat bar instead of square tube steel, then that can cost more because bending the arch from this type material may have to be bent off site.  Arching a large rectangular piece of steel requires heavy duty equipment and your average iron shop may not be able to accommodate that.

A standard size to use for a gate frame is 2" square or less.  Take a look through your neighborhood, check out the iron gates, notice the size of the tube steel used.  I think you'll see that the size is between 1" square to 2" square.  Any of these sizes make for a sturdy, lovely looking gate.

Most contemporary styles use a straight top rather than arched.  The clean lines of a straight top usually complement the lines of a contemporary style home.  If you've chosen a straight top design, then you have a few more options when it comes to steel size.  Keep in mind, that you don't want to make your gate too heavy, that creates another set of problems. 

If your sold on using a larger size steel frame, let's say tube steel 3" x 2", a straight top is the time to implement it.  It's important to use a thicker wall for the tube steel in order to bend this larger size without it wanting to twist or tweak during the process.  If you use a thicker wall for the top of the frame, then  you can compromise by using the same size steel but a thinner wall on the sides and bottom to reduce the weight of the project.

An arched or straight top gate is a matter of taste and understanding the design elements of your houses architecture.  Either choice can make for a unique and wonderful gate.

Need Wrought Iron . . . Get All the Work Done at One Time

If you have someone come out to give you pricing for your wrought iron project make sure that when you're shopping for prices that you include all elements of your project and in its entirety.  If an iron specialist comes out, make sure that you have him include all aspects of your project.  I've had clients request pricing for one part of a project and then later ask me about pricing for another.  If you combine all your wrought iron projects the overall cost will be less.  It's always less expensive to "mobilize" one time rather than several different times.

I understand that the initial outlay for a project is expensive, but why not try and consolidate and save as much as 30%.  If I order materials for a project, the larger the order the more discount the supplier will give.  If I spend time locating products and components, designing products, and ordering products it's less expensive to do it all at one time rather than in increments.  Time costs money, and the more time that has to be spent, the more the project costs.

If my shop is making an iron project they set up specifically for it.  The components are laid out, the materials are cut all at once and specifically for that layout, and then the project is welded together all at one time.  Every time my shop sets up for a  new project it is easier to complete it and then move on to set up for the next one.  If you have your entire project done at the same time then the cost of fabrication is less. 

Keep in mind, that every project has to be measured before the process begins.  That requires a field employee coming out to your home, or job site, measuring, then detailing the design and creating information that the shop employees can use to put the design together.  If you combine your entire wrought iron project then that means only one visit by our field staff to do all the measuring, one time to do all the detailing and calculations, and one set up in the shop for fabricating.

Most important, and the most expensive aspect, is the installation process.  Each time we install a project, it requires loading the job truck with  tools and equipment specific to the job, loading the job materials and then scheduling the the field crew and driving to the job site.  Field crews are always paid higher wages so the less time they spend at a job site, and the fewer times they have to travel to the site, the more the cost savings.

You can see, that by having your entire project done at one time, you've saved field measuring time, detailing time, ordering time, fabrication time and most important, and the most costly, field installation time.  So, gather all your wrought iron projects together and have them completed all at once, you'll end up being the real winner and a big saver.

Railings By Design

Railings really are the simplest way to enhance your home’s interior and exterior.  If you love the look of scrolls but want something more, something extra special, then you can enhance your railing design by adding leaves or flower components, wavy pickets or circles and balls. 

There seems to be resurgence in railings that are ornately designed and that display old world charm.  A small wall opening can become a beautiful work of art given the correct railing panel design, a conversation piece and something to be admired by others.  A simple railing can frame an entrance or add that missing touch to a completed room or outdoor space. 

When it comes to purchasing just the right couch for your living room you choose something timeless and unique and a railing should be chosen with the same criteria in mind.  A couch will be replaced but an iron railing will last forever so pick a design that you love and don’t be too concerned about the cost because it will pay for itself the minute you see the completed product. 

Railings are not only for stairs but for patios and verandas too.  They can divide a room without closing it in.  Imagine walking into your foyer and seeing a beautiful rail dividing the entry rooms.  It’s a simple solution to dividing a space up without closing it in.  Look around your house and imagine where your “work of art” can be installed, you won’t be disappointed and it will increase the value of your home too!