Cost
The first consideration for many property owners is the cost of a project. Well, as with any luxury item, customized ornamental iron is dear. However, you have a range of products available with wrought iron that impact the bottom line. For instance. You don't have to choose a customized fence - companies offer prefabricated metal panels that are easier on the budget.
One consideration to keep in mind when judging cost is property value. Wrought iron fencing is renowned as a luxury fencing material. So, while any fence adds value to your property anyway, wrought iron increases said value. What's more, wrought iron holds up well to the test of time. So, you'll have fewer expenditures for repairs and replacement.
Maintenance
Speaking of maintenance, wrought iron fencing does involve some. As noted, wrought iron is exceptionally durable. However, the material does have one natural enemy - rust. When you have a wrought iron fence, you'll want to walk your fence line periodically to look for any scratches or the beginnings of rust.
If you do notice rust, you can fix the problem. You'll have to scrape away the rust and apply a neutralizer to ensure it doesn't return. Then you'll prime and paint the area so it looks new again. In fact, painting a wrought iron fence with a weatherproof paint is one way to prevent rust. You can also order your fence powder-coated, which further protects the surface from rust.
Ornamentation
Original wrought iron fencing is highly elaborate. Such fences feature scrolls and pickets to make up all manner of patterning. You even see highly decorative finials, medallions, and other ornaments. All of these ornaments are still possible, especially if you choose a custom wrought iron fence. On the other hand, you can scale the ornamentation back to straight pickets and spearheads.
You'll have to consider your house's style in relation to the ornamentation. If you have an historical house, especially one in the Victorian spectrum, you can have as ornamented an iron fence installed as you desire. In fact, an elaborate fence will complement the property. Many regional styles, such as Mediterranean, support some ornamentation. Simple is best for modern properties.
Style
A fence or driveway gate operates independently of the rest of the fencing. So, even if you opt for a restrained hand in the fence panel ornamentation, your gate can be more elaborate. Indeed, many properties feature stately gates flanked with stone posts. You even see properties with the family crest as a medallion on the gate.
When it comes to your driveway gate, you have another consideration - how it opens. Driveway gates can swing out or slide on tracks. With the swinging varieties, you need to have enough driveway clearance for the gate. With swinging gates, you can also choose a bi-part gate that consists of two pieces. You'll probably want an automatic gate opener for either style, though.
Landscape
One of the big benefits of ornamental iron fencing is that it allows good visibility between the sidewalk and your yard. Therefore, your beautiful landscaping is easy to see. To that end, many property owners devise landscaping that works with the fencing to create curb appeal. For instance, they might install foundation beds or planters to grow blooms near the fence.
Keep in mind, though, that plants leaning up against the fence can trap moisture. What's more, if a branch falls on the fence, it can scratch the surface. Both incidents can promote rust. So, you'll want to keep landscaping clear of the fence itself.