subject: Wrought Iron Railings for Home or Office [print this page] The beauty and durability of wrought iron railings has been proven over many centuries of use. Its history began in the middle ages when foundries across Europe used various methods to form the malleable metal. The fact that it is durable which and will give instead of breaking, like cast iron, give it the properties needed for the uses found. Balconies, handrails, ornate gates, or entry doors have been fashioned of wrought iron.
The uses of the metal call for a vast array of design possibilities. Ornate structures that serve both as a door, for instance, as a coat of arms. The strength of the metal gave it the ability to be used as a fortress against attackers. To this day, it is a respected part of a security fence system in some of the finest homes across the world.
While there are no more producers of wrought iron, there are still companies who form beautiful iron gates or other products using old scrap iron, which is enough to meet the demand. Restoring authentic historic buildings often require the use of the metal.
Modern uses of wrought iron include railings, beds, wine racks, furniture, tables, doors, table lamps, mirrors and of course, gates. Prices may vary quite a bit, depending on the amount of artistic details and the fame of the artist being hired to fabricate the work desired. The more ornate, the more time is needed but custom orders may offer a unique beauty, at a price, of course. Wrought iron railings offer the quality of being fashioned along a winding staircase in graceful curves accentuating the shape of the stairs. This promotes an elegant architecture in large homes or government buildings with plenty of space.
The durability of iron is without question. It will easily last a lifetime needing only a paint job every 3 or 4 years. When an iron fence is set outside in concrete, there is often more problems with the settling ground and worn concrete instead of the iron. With some cleaning, new concrete can be poured using the same wrought iron fence. While dismantled, the iron could be sandblasted, primed and painted as desired.
When working at ones home, there may be some who are of the "do it yourself" mold. Some wrought iron projects are perfectly suited for this type of individual, especially if they are familiar with concrete, have a strong back and are artistically inclined. Information on such projects is available online through various web sites that may offer materials needed.
Finishing a wrought iron railings project will bring the satisfaction in knowing that it will last for the rest of ones life. That combined with the fact that it will never have to be done again, unless an artistic change is desire. Plan well and enjoy.
