Wrought Iron Gates vs. Other Materials: Comparative Analysis
Introduction
Material is the first consideration when taking a certain case with regard to a property gate. One of the materials that made it become most competitive is wrought iron, despite it continues to compete against others such as wood, aluminum, and vinyl. This blog post discusses and presents a comparison of wrought iron gates against gates constructed from other older, more traditional materials, based on comparison for parameters such as durability, security, aesthetic value, and the level of maintenance required.
Durability and Strength
Wrought Iron
It is said to be one of the very strongest in iron; hence, wrought iron is strong and able to resist big forces without bending or breaking.
It is also resistant to wear and tear caused by climatic conditions, hence suitable for outdoor gates.
Wood
In contrast to its strong points, wood is a material that is more sensitive to weather.
It can bend, rot, or may even become a dwelling point for insects.
Regularly maintained wooden gates are appropriate to ensure the correct operation.
Applications of Aluminum
Though lightweight, aluminum does have the advantage of strength.
It undergoes good resistance to corrosion and rust.
However, it is not as heavy in build as wrought iron, and dents or gets damaged easily.
Vinyl
Vinyl gates are highly equipped to weather and require least maintenance.
However, vinyl is weaker than the wrought iron, so a high-stress load will cause it to crack or even break.
Security
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is stronger, hence more secure.
As it cannot be easily cut or broken into, most burglars will resist trying.
Wood
Although wood gates can be solid, the majority are pretty easy to smash through compared to those made of wrought iron.
There are a host of additional features that can be included to improve security, such as reinforced panels or metal reinforcement.
Aluminum
Aluminum gates will provide a reasonable amount of security but not as high as wrought iron.
Since this is a light material, aluminum will still be easy to endeavor unless strong metal-like reinforcement is attached.
Vinyl
It is not an appropriate choice for applications where high security is a concern.
It can be easily broken through and less protective in comparison to metal gates.
Aesthetic Appeal
Wrought Iron
A wrought iron gate seems to be synonymous with class and elegance.
They can be fabricated into exquisitely intricate designs with much scrollwork and the attachment of ornamental pieces that set them apart from any other property.
Wood
Thus, the wood gate creates the warmth associated with a natural look that is best in traditional and rustic settings.
Further, if stained or painted variously, it will enhance the whole property's look.
Aluminum
Aluminum gates look exactly like wrought iron or any other metal and can't be distinguished.
A wide range might be available with respect to finishes and color options available, but it lacks the feel of genuine wrought iron.
Vinyl
Also, vinyl gates are available in a huge range of colors and styles.
That being said, they do have a tendency to have a more contemporary look about them, which lends them, to a certain extent, less of a traditional feel that may not suit every property.
Maintenance Needs
Wrought Iron
- It is minimal when trying to keep it from rusting and corroding—just basically keeping it clean with a periodic repainting; though it can last for decades if well-maintained.
Wood
Wooden gates do require more maintenance by way of sealing, staining, and repairs to keep them from rotting and being eaten away by insects.
Otherwise, if the proper care is not taken, wooden gates would easily run down.
Aluminum
Aluminum gates are also a very low-maintenance type of gates.
However, an occasional cleaning will always be required to remove dirt and debris.
They never rust and are corrosion-free; hence, their longevity can always be taken into account.
Vinyl
Being made of vinyl, the gate requires only periodical cleaning.
Never rotting, rusting, or calling for painting, this is convenient and superb for the busy worker.
Cost Comparison
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron gates can be a little bit costlier compared to others made of other materials, for the reason that it's directly related to the cost of the material used and secondly on account of the time consumed in arranging metal into these beautiful designs.
The price can, however, be justified a bit when one looks at the durability and beauty this gate exudes.
Wood
The prices for wooden gates vary depending on the quality of the wood used in the manufacturing of them.
Some woods are cheaper, but the overall price incorporates either periodic maintenance.
Aluminum
- Aluminum gates are cheap compared to wrought iron, and offer a great value for the price by attaining a balance between cost, strength, and appearance.
Vinyl
This is usually the least expensive kind of gate in terms of the initial cost and also in the long run.
Nevertheless, their non-durability and insecurity might be a compromise of the inexpensive gate.
Environmental Considerations
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is an eco-friendly metal that can be easily recycled.
The production process, however, has a very critical ecologic footprint as a result of the energy consumed in the smelting of the metal-forge and mold formation.
Wood
Wood is a renewable material, though very much depending on its origin.
Sustainably harvested wood is generally friendlier to the environment, though again the treatments and finishes add to the ecological footprint.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a recyclable material, but at times, extracting and processing aluminum become very laborious in terms of energy.
This would not be the case for recycled aluminum.
Vinyl
Vinyl is made from PVC, a no-biodegradable plastic which can have a potentially high environmental impact.
Some manufacturers, however, do have programs for recycling their vinyl products.
Conclusion
Nothing rivals the strength, safety, and visual beauty that wrought iron gates can offer. While these are relatively high-maintenance and can be quite expensive up front, generally speaking, this will pay off for someone seeking durability, elegance, and security on his or her property. In weighing wrought iron against other metals, consider what your needs are for your property and weigh the pros versus cons to determine which one you will use.