Wrought iron gates have been used for centuries to create beautiful entrances, enhance outdoor living spaces, and provide a sense of security. Generally made from hand-forged metal, these gates can be designed to fit almost any style of home or landscape, lending a timeless elegance that is both functional and decorative.
If you’re looking to enhance your outdoor living space with wrought iron gates, the process can seem daunting. So, whether you want to add a grand entrance to your home or simply increase privacy and security, we’ve created this guide to help.
Select the Right Design
The first step in choosing the right wrought iron gate for your outdoor living space is to determine the design that will complement your home and garden. You can choose from a variety of designs and colors to match your style, and the functionality you need from the gate. Here are some of the most popular wrought iron gate designs to consider:
1. Traditional Gates: As the name suggests, traditional wrought iron gates feature classic designs with arrowheads and scrolls. These gates are perfect for homes that feature simpler architectural designs, such as cottages and Colonial-style homes.
2. Modern Gates: Modern wrought iron gates feature sleek, minimalistic designs that complement contemporary homes. This style of the gate features clean lines and an uncomplicated finish, making it perfect for urban spaces.
3. Rustic Gates: If you have a countryside home, you might want to opt for rustic, wrought iron gates. These style of gates features twisted, rough-hewn metals that provide a worn, timeless appeal.
4. Custom-made Gates: If you have a specific design in mind for your wrought iron gate and can’t find it in the already-made gates in the market, you can commission a custom-made gate. This option takes longer and may cost more, but it allows you to get a gate that perfectly fits your design ideas.
Get the Right Measurements
Before placing an order for your wrought iron gate, you need to know the measurements of the entrance. This will help you select a gate size that fits perfectly, which will ensure it looks proportionate to your entrance.
Start by measuring the distance between the two gate posts from side to side (the width), and then from one post to the other (the height). Always measure this both at the bottom to the top of the posts and in between the middle to get the exact dimensions of your entrance.
Select Your Finish
When choosing the perfect wrought iron gate finish for your outdoor living space, you’ll have a wide selection of coatings that can either provide a rustic or sleek look. Here are some of the most popular finishes:
1. Traditional Wrought Iron Finish: Metalcraft offers a traditional wrought iron finish, which creates a lovely weathered, antique look. This finish is perfect for gates with intricate designs and can handle harsh weather conditions.
2. Powder Coat Finishing: Powder coat finishing is a type of finish done using a powder that is heat-treated to create a thick, durable coating that makes the gate resistant to chipping, peeling, and rusting.
3. Enamel Coating: For a classic, shiny finish, consider an enamel coating. This finish is added directly to the wrought iron, creating an elegant polished look.
Install the Gate
Once you’ve chosen your wrought iron gate, it’s time to start the installation process. If you’re handy and have some experience with construction, you may be able to install the gate yourself. However, if you’re not sure, the smarter option is to hire a professional to do it for you.
Make sure that the gate is installed in a perfectly leveled fashion, and also that the hinges and latches match your chosen style of gate. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, including proper anchorage for the gate posts, to avoid any sagging, bending or toppling over the gate.
FAQS
Q: Are wrought iron gates suitable for all types of weather?
A: Yes, wrought iron gates are great for all types of weather conditions, ranging from hot summers to cold winters. When the gate is coated with weather-resistant coating, it can withstand all harsh elements.
Q: Can I customize my wrought iron gate design?
A: Yes, wrought iron gates can be custom-made with specific designs that suit the customer’s desire. With a custom-made gate, the customer can specify size, materials, finishes, and overall design to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Q: How do I maintain the durability of the wrought iron gate?
A: Wrought iron gates are durable and long-lasting, but proper maintenance is necessary to maintain their appeal. It would help if you cleaned the gate regularly using water and mild detergent, and inspect the gate for rusting, especially in hard-to-reach areas. You should also lubricate any moving parts, hinges, and latches regularly to keep them in good working condition.
Q: How long will the wrought iron gate last?
A: A wrought iron gate can last for several years, with proper maintenance, up to a decade and more. Its durability ultimately depends on how well the gate is taken care of and the weather conditions it is exposed to regularly.
Conclusion
A wrought iron gate adds elegance and sophistication to any outdoor living space, providing both security and privacy. With so many styles and finishes to choose from, picking a wrought iron gate can seem daunting. However, this guide should have given you a starting point so that you can choose the right design, size, finish, and installation approach. With proper maintenance, your wrought iron gate will enhance your outdoor living space for many years to come.
