When you’re looking for a metal fence, ornamental iron panels is what you should be considering. Now, I know the internet can throw a million options at you— cast iron, aluminum, corrugated metal sheets, and whatnot—but let’s cut through the noise. I’m talking specifically about prefabricated ornamental iron fence panels. This is the best choice if you’re looking for something durable and ready to go.
I’ll break down exactly what makes these panels a top choice and why they might just be the perfect fit for your property.
Ornamental Iron Fence Styles
There are three main styles of ornamental iron fence panels:
Flat Top
Spear Top
Curved Top
Simple, right? These are mass-produced by the manufacturer, often with a warranty included, plus your contractor’s workmanship warranty. This makes them a very convenient fencing option for any home or business. Since they’re prefabricated, installation is quicker, yet they provide the same durability as a custom-made iron fence.
Choosing the right thickness
1- 1/2 ” top and bottom rail and 3/4″pickets.
Referred to as “commercial grade,” this option features thicker material. You can install it for your home or any application. It simply means more strength.
1″ and bottom rail and 5/8″ pickets.
Same for this one “residential grade” just meaning there is less thickness on the steel.
Whichever way you go, both grades deliver on quality. It just depends on whether you need something more heavy-duty or not.
(Curved Top is 1- 1/2″x 3/4″ only.)
Height Options
This choice really depends on your needs. Would a 4-foot fence work? Are you looking to define your property?, keep people from parking in your shop space, or secure a stock yard? Ornamental iron panels come in various heights, ranging from 4 to 8 feet.
4 feet: Defining your property
5-6 feet: Ideal for homeowners looking for security—this height is the go-to for most residential needs.
7-8 feet: When you need maximum security, especially for commercial properties, this is where you want to be.
What are these metal panels made of?
These are made from pre-galvanized steel, which means they’ve gone through a process to resist rust and corrosion from the inside out. Plus, they’re powder-coated right from the manufacturer. This powder coating adds durability, makes your fence rust-resistant, and keeps maintenance to a minimum.
This combination ensures your fence is built to last for years. While you can expect the finish to hold up well, it’s a good idea to touch it up with black spray paint every 6-7 years for optimal appearance. Overall, you won’t have to worry about significant touch-ups or repairs anytime soon.
Key Factors That Affect Your Fence’s Lifespan
Climate: Extreme sun exposure or regular rain, is going to wear on the fence faster. Sun can break down the paint over time, while water—especially from sprinklers or constant rain—can lead to rusting if the fence is exposed too often. But don’t worry, these panels are made to handle a lot. With the right care, you’re in good shape.
Solution:
Maintenance: to keep your fence looking great and lasting longer, all you really need to do is touch up the paint every 7-8 years. Sure, if you skip this, the fence will still hold up, but a little paint goes a long way in preserving its lifespan. Nature will take its toll on any material over time, but with the right care, these iron fences can easily last 30 years or more.
Installation Made Easy: Fast and Efficient
Panels are ready to go~ which speeds things up. In our experience, installation is usually quick—about 1-2 days for 100 feet. That being said, every property is different, and it depends on the specifics of the project. Your contractor may encounter some challenges depending on the type of ground, but that’s just part of the job. Installation isn’t something you need to stress about— with the right team, it’s smooth sailing!
Want a Third Rail? Available too! (But Be Ready to Wait)
If you want a third rail, you can order it, but since it’s a special order, it’s not usually kept in stock and may take a bit longer to get. If you’re looking for that extra touch, simply let your contractor know!
Privacy Metal Fence? No Problem.
If privacy is a concern, you can add wooden slats between the pickets, black metal sheets, or perforated metal sheets. If you’re worried about the aesthetics or it’s not your style, a combination of wood and metal fencing might be a better fit for you.
Expanded Metal Sheet
Types of metal sheets
Why Choose Prefabricated Ornamental Iron Panels?
| Low Maintenance ✔ | High-quality finishes |
| Versatile Installations ✔ | Home or business, these panels do the job. |
| Fast Installation ✔ | Prefabricated panels are a no-brainer if you’re on a timeline. |
| Durable Material ✔ | Face-welded, pre-galvanized and powder-coated. |
| Consistent Quality ✔ | Manufactured to specific standards, so there are no surprises. |
| Cost Effective ✔ | They offer great value for your money. |
Common Uses for Prefabricated Ornamental Iron Panels
So, where do these panels fit best? Honestly, they work well for just about anything—yard fences, deck fences, pool enclosures, parking lots, business perimeters, balconies, restaurants, homes, and more.
How much does a metal fence cost?
To give you an idea of the cost, the final price of your metal fence installation depends on several things, such as: the total length of the fence, whether the posts will be set in concrete or plated, the height, the number of gates, and the thickness of the material.
For example:
A 1- 1/2 ” top and bottom rail and 3/4″pickets. 6-foot-high fence 100 feet typically ranges between $6,500 and $7,700.
A 1″ top and bottom rail and 5/8″ pickets. fence of the same height and length is generally between $6,100 and $7300.
Keep these variables in mind when considering your project, as they will all influence the final cost.
Property Size: The longer the fence line, the more panels you’ll need.
Need a gate? Options include walking gates, swing gates, double swing gates, sliding/rolling gates, and automated gates. Do you need heavy duty hardware? For sliding gates, additional concrete work may be required if you don’t already have a surface for it to slide on, such as dirt.
Ground: Are the posts going to be set in concrete or plated? Would it be necessary to break up concrete or remove an old fence? These factors will also affect your total cost.
Privacy & Customization: Want to add privacy features like metal sheets or expanded metal for your pets? Do you prefer a custom gate, or are you ok with a standard gate that matches the fence?
The bottom line is that the price for a metal fence depends on your specific situation. On average, you might be looking at $55 to $75 per linear foot for residential-grade fences and $70 to $100 per linear foot for commercial-grade installations. Custom gates, additional features like privacy panels, and ground adjustments will impact the total.
Making the Right Choice for Your Property
When it comes to choosing the right metal fence, ornamental iron fences are a great option. They’re durable, quick to install, and suitable for both homes and businesses. However, if you’re looking for something more unique—like custom designs or curves—custom fences offer a high level of personalization to match your vision. More of that on the upcoming blog.
I hope this information helps you make the right decision for your metal fence!
Did we miss anything? Need more info? Want to see the panels in person or talk specifics?
Get in touch, we are happy to help you with any questions.
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