Wrought Iron vs Ornamental Iron

Custom Metal Work on Long Island

When it comes to building, there is the possibility of using wrought iron and ornamental iron. As experts in the field, we understand the difference between the two. That is because wrought iron and ornamental iron are two very different classifications. However, the end product will look very similar. Whether it is a gate, fence or railing, these irons produce a similar result. So, knowing the differences between the two types and understanding which is perfect for you is the first step towards completing the upcoming contracting project.

At Bobco Ornamental Iron, we utilize these materials for professional fencing services, the creating of gates, and installing exterior iron railings. We understand the pros and cons of these materials and will help you decide on the best course for the project. Get a quote today for our custom ornamental ironworks services.

Get Ironworks Quote

For more information about our ornamental metal work and contracting projects, please reach out to us. We are located in Franklin Square, New York and work with clients from across Long Island. When you reach out to our office, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation to go over all that you need. We can discuss exactly what it is you are looking for. Once we have a handle on the project, we can provide you with a fair and accurate estimate. Get the best custom iron railings, fences, and gates when you turn to Bobco Ornamental!

Differences In Iron

When it comes to the differences between ornamental and wrought iron is the material they are made from. Wrought iron fences are made from the raw element of iron, which can be naturally harvested from the earth. However, it is difficult to find 100% raw iron since many manufacturers add iron silicate to it.

Whereas ornamental iron is actually steel! Steel is a man-made product that manufacturers create when they combine carbon with raw iron. The end result is a more affordable product and one that is easier to work with due to its malleability. While still displaying similar properties to genuine iron. In a way, you can think of it as a cheap knockoff of iron, but truthfully it is more durable than that moniker would portend.

Telling The Difference Between Wrought & Ornamental Iron

There are some signs to look out for in order to tell the different between real, wrought iron and ornamental iron. Let's take a look at some of those differences.

- When it comes to the workmanship, if it looks more refined and designed, then it is wrought iron. That is because it is much easier to work with wrought iron, so nearly all projects are custom-made in one way or another. Genuine craftsmanship goes into the creation of a wrought iron gate, fence or railing.

- Wrought iron bends under extreme heat. But it does not dent, dimple or collapse. However, since ornamental iron is malleable steel, it more easily dents, dimples and bends. And if it is hollow it is steel, too.

- A project can also consist of both ornamental iron and wrought iron. Different aspects can utilize the different pros of each material to create the best gate, railing or fence possible.

- When the wrought iron is genuine, it is shaped by a blacksmith, who heats up the iron and then welds it to a final shape. So, more often than not, you can spot the detail in this work. You can look for signs of welded seam down the center of the picket, rails, or posts to identify steel tubing.

- If you have a fence and want to see what it is made of to help with the next project, then you can conduct a spark test (We recommend a professional perform this test, because it is dangerous!). To do this test, you can take a sample of the metal and run it against a grindstone. If it is wrought iron, it will produce a reddish color spark. If it is steel, it will produce white sparks. The difference in sparks comes down to the fact that carbon is added to the manufacturing of steel.

- It is easy to mass produce decorative fences with ornamental iron. So there is a uniform look to these fences.