Architectural Wrought Iron Components

Fences

• Architectural wrought iron fences are made of pickets, posts and rails. Decorative elements may be added to the top of the pickets, between the rails or sculpted into elaborately shaped pickets. A variety of patterns are expressed through spacing and shape. The posts themselves punctuate the fence by creating an interval or measure that lends rhythm to the length of fence. In addition, gates are operable portions of the fence, which are typically designed to match or embellish upon the fence rail and picket design.

Balconies

• Wrought iron balconies and handrails combine the functions of fencing and structure. The structure of the balcony supports the rails and posts. The iron is attached and lends rigidity to the balcony with fasteners such as nuts and bolts. Posts, pickets, rails and columns punctuate the repetitive nature of the balcony and handrail components. Older balconies may have wrought iron structural components, but this is uncommon in newer construction due to the brittle nature of wrought iron.

Stairs

• Wrought iron stairs involve structural components, risers, treads and handrails. Limitations of space determine stair and structural layout. Local building code ordinance may further impose limitations on tread widths, riser heights, picket spacing and structural demands. Check with your local building or inspection official for those values, which are typically given in pounds per square feet. Wrought iron stairs must be designed in accordance with code.

Structure

• Wrought iron structural architectural components are rarely used outside of historic preservation. Modern materials, such as steel or concrete, are commonly available and often easier to work with. Additionally, steel has the advantages of being ductile and is not as brittle as iron. Steel and wrought iron are typically fabricated in shops, however wrought iron may not allow for fine adjustments. This property of architectural wrought iron limits its application to locations where movement is minimal.