Wood vs. Iron Fences

Privacy, protection, beautification and increased home value are some of the main reasons to get a fence, and you can achieve all of them with either wood or iron fencing. However, each type has its pros and cons.

Characteristics of Wood Fencing
As one of the most popular fencing materials, wood styles include ranch, post and rail, latticework and prefabricated board panels. It can provide any height that you prefer, and it is economical. The flexibility and adaptability of wood let you create patterns in a fence that make it attractive. Variations in quality and appearance let you choose a wood product such as cedar that is more durable than fir, spruce or pine that can deteriorate more rapidly.

Advantages of Wood
• economical
• conforms to any shape
• creates a visual privacy barrier
• adapts to any use
• accepts any color of paint

Disadvantages of Wood
• requires maintenance to repaint or replace boards
• may need replacement within 15 years
• can change color or warp and sag with sun exposure
• attracts wood pests
• does not accept stain well

Qualities of Iron Fencing
Wrought iron today includes the metal that craftsmen twist, hammer or bend into shape. Once the pride of skilled metal smiths and very expensive, the classic material creates a style of its own. It can present a rustic or elegant appearance, reflecting the detail and quality of the materials that make it more expensive than wood.

Advantages of Iron
• long lasting
• no rotting or warping
• stronger than wood
• thin profile and good visibility
• artistic

Disadvantages of Iron
• may develop rust spots over time
• can require sanding and protective paint
• needs annual maintenance inspection
• probably needs repainting after 10 or 15 years