When trying to decide whether wrought iron or vinyl fencing is the better option for your home, it helps to consider the benefits of each option. When doing this you should consider the materials, ease of installation, maintenance needs, durability, and style. Naturally, it also helps to look at the big differences between the two types of fencing. Hopefully, this guide will help you make the decision with ease.
What is Wrought Iron and PVC Fencing?
Wrought iron consists of an iron alloy with slag and a very low content of carbon. It is a tough material but is easily welded and corrosion-resistant. Vinyl or poly (vinyl chloride) PVC fencing became popular in the 1980s as a horse fencing product. It was durable and didn't retain moisture or cause damage if a horse ran into it. Those characteristics make it a popular choice.
Styles: More styles are available for vinyl because of its material composition including picket, privacy, pool fencing, picket as well as post and rail options. The PVC plastic composition commonly uses non-textured panels, but some companies offer a product line that has simulated wood or stone appearances.
Installation: Iron fencing is obviously heavier to handle and will require cement to make the fence sturdy. Vinyl won't require as much if any to ensure the fence has a firm stability.
Cost: Vinyl fencing can average of $4 to $12 per linear foot for materials if you opt to do the work or as much as $7 to $25 per linear foot for a professional to do the job. Wrought iron is much more expensive with prices per linear foot starting at $20 to $100 for the handy person versus the professional beginning at $30 to $300.
Maintenance: With wrought iron, rust spots will develop under normal circumstances and it will make it a candidate for painting about every two to three years. Many homeowners don't realize how much damage can occur from harsh weather. The paint will eliminate many of the pits from collecting that can cause corrosion.
Vinyl requires less maintenance because it is unlikely to stain or discolor as time passes. In most cases it can occasionally be cleaned with a water hose, so mold doesn't have a chance to accumulate.
Durability: During the cold weather, the PVC will contract and expand with the alternating temperature fluctuations. The material can become brittle and possibly break. Wrought iron is hard to break making it a great choice for security. Some people don't mind the rusty antique look the wrought iron fencing acquires with time, and it can take a long time before any structural damage is evident.
Now that you have had the opportunity to take a closer look at how these two fencing materials compare, it should be easier for you to decide which option is best for you. Talk with a fence contractor for more help.
