What Is Wrought Iron?
All you need to know about this sturdy material.
Whether your style leans Western, gothic, or farmhouse, you might have come across wrought iron. But what is wrought iron exactly? Our guide covers what it is and why you might want to add it to your decorating repertoire.
What Is Wrought Iron?
Wrought iron is an iron alloy made with about 1% to 2% of added slag (the by-product of iron ore smelting that contains a combination of silicon, phosphorus, sulfur, and aluminum oxide). This small amount of slag gives wrought iron its grainy texture.
Created by heating the material and working it with tools repeatedly, wrought iron is malleable and gets stronger the more it is worked. It has a lower carbon content than cast iron, which makes wrought iron softer and more ductile. Wrought iron also has high tensile strength and fatigue-resistance, which makes it a durable, strong material.
During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, wrought iron was often used for decorative elements like fences, balconies, lamps, and hardware. Its strength made it a popular material throughout the nineteenth century as well, during which it was also used for structural components like nails, tie rods, beams, and bars.
Today, wrought iron is mostly used for decorative purposes. Though advancements in metallurgy have made steel a less expensive and easier-to-manufacture option, wrought iron remains a durable and low-maintenance choice for gates, fences, doors, stair railings, and decorative elements. Wrought iron is also an excellent option for durable outdoor furniture, like patio dining sets, outdoor benches and garden arbors, as well as elegant molding that can enhance your interiors with timeless appeal.
Benefits of Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is a timeless, long-lasting material with plenty of benefits:
- With incredible tensile strength and fatigue-resistance, wrought iron is a durable material that takes immense pressure to deform and break.
- Its ornate, historical feel makes wrought iron a timeless and elegant choice.
- Wrought iron is a low-maintenance material that only requires repainting every few years, and damaged sections can be easily replaced or repaired.
- Whether you're choosing a wrought-iron fencing, furniture, or decor, there are several design options to choose from.
