Looking to incorporate a wrought iron design element into your home but not sure where to begin? Look no further, a wrought-iron railing is an eye-catching piece that makes a decadent addition to any home, but without the proper knowledge, it can easily lead to you going over budget. Wrought iron can be incorporated into your home through fencing, indoor and outdoor railings, design fixtures, and decorative window security. Wrought iron is an iron alloy with very low carbon content in contrast to that of cast iron. It is a semi-fused mass of iron with fibrous slag inclusions, which gives it a "grain" resembling wood that is visible when it is etched or bent to the point of failure. This malleable metal is strong, resists corrosion, easy to weld, and often lasts for sixty years or longer making it the ideal choice when looking to invest in the best of the best.
Wrought iron has been used for centuries dating back to medieval times, it was the choice of Sir Christopher Wren when he found out that there was a plan to build a fence around St Paul’s Cathedral in London. The english architect never wanted a fence to surround his masterpiece so as a compromise, he agreed but only if wrought iron will be used. Wrought iron is both durable and artistic, making it a great addition to any home or business looking to spruce up their appearance without having to settle for something more likely to wear over time. Wrought iron also has a grainy finish to it which compliments both modern and vintage structures as well.
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What Affects the Cost of Wrought Iron
As mentioned earlier, wrought iron is a malleable metal that allows it to be customized in ways that other metals cannot be, such as aluminum or steel. Wrought iron is also a labor-intensive metal and is priced by linear foot which can make it an expensive investment. On average it costs $2,600 for the installation of the railing, some may pay between $700 and $4,600 for both labor and materials. The price can fluctuate by the level of customization, design, location, and difficulty that comes with the labor involved.
Since wrought iron railings are priced by linear foot taking into account the size of your project beforehand can help you map out the costs. For a standard wrought iron banister that ranges between 10 to 30 feet, the materials typically cost anywhere from $50 to $120 per linear foot, with an additive of $300 to $1,200 for labor. Banisters consist of balusters, bottom rails, handrails, and some other possible materials depending on the installation and layout of the railing. Decorative railings that require customization will be on the higher end of the price range per linear foot, but an affordable alternative would be to find pre-formed iron so it requires less labor. Wrought iron railings and banisters can be used both indoor and outdoor on porches, decks, balconies, and stairs.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair Wrought Iron
Life often leads to unexpected places so it’s beneficial to factor in unexpected costs such as repairs and replacements when deciding to install something like a wrought iron railing into your home or business. On average it costs between $260 to $2,000 to replace a spindle, which are the vertical posts that connect the base rail and handrail on a staircase. This price comes from $130 to $1,600 per spindle and $130 to $400 for labor or you could opt to repair the broken spindle for $100 to $500 depending on how bad the damage is.
Wrought Iron Maintenance
All things considered, a wrought-iron railing is an investment piece for your home that will last over sixty years adding to the overall value of your home or business and the visual aesthetic. That being said, it’s important to know how to properly care for your wrought iron railing as well. You should avoid using harsh chemical cleaning products and furniture polish, instead opting for light dusting with a lint-free microfiber cloth to remove dust particles from the surface. A feather duster is also an alternative option to the microfiber cloth if you happen to have one in your home already. If your railing needs a little more than just a dusting you can use a vinegar solution to restore its initial shine, soak a towel in 2 parts water 1 part distilled vinegar, and wipe down the banister before drying it off.
Now that you know about wrought iron railing pricing as well as the typical cost for possible issues, you can look to hire a professional as needed. Check out House Tipster, and find the perfect pro for your home repair needs.
