7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring an Ornamental Iron Fence Contractor
Ornamental iron fences are the highest-end fence category and the easiest to mess up if the contractor cuts corners. The hardware is expensive, the installation is unforgiving, and warranty issues compound over years. Here’s how to avoid the seven most common hiring mistakes.
Mistake 1: Choosing on Price Alone
Quality ornamental iron costs 2-3x cheap aluminum that looks similar in photos. The difference shows in 18 months: powder-coat failure on the cheap material, then visible rust by year three. Spend the extra now or replace the whole fence within 8 years.
Mistake 2: Not Verifying the Coating System
“Powder coated” isn’t a single quality level. Quality is determined by the surface treatment process (degreasing, sandblasting, phosphate conversion), powder thickness (3-5 mils minimum for outdoor use), and the cure profile. Cheap coatings skip these steps and fail in 2-4 years.
Ask the contractor to specify the coating system (manufacturer name and process) and provide the warranty terms in writing.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Post Setting Requirements
Ornamental iron fences are heavier than wood or vinyl, and gate posts especially carry meaningful load. Posts set in shallow concrete or skipped concrete entirely will lean within 24 months. Spec: 36″ minimum post depth for line posts, 42-48″ for gate posts, full concrete column.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does ornamental iron fence cost in central Arkansas?
Standard ornamental iron (powder-coated steel or aluminum) is priced per linear foot installed, with premium custom designs running higher. Gates are priced individually by size and design.
How long does an ornamental iron fence last in Arkansas?
Quality powder-coated steel or aluminum: 35-50+ years. Bare iron with paint: 20-30 years with periodic repainting.
What’s the difference between iron and aluminum?
Aluminum is lighter, doesn’t rust, and costs less. Steel is heavier, stronger, and looks more substantial. Both work well powder-coated; aluminum has the edge in coastal or high-humidity environments.
Can I get custom designs?
Yes. Standard catalog designs are cheaper, but custom scrollwork, decorative caps, and unique pickets are available. Custom designs typically add 30-50% to the per-foot cost.
Talk to a Local Fencing Pro
Planning an ornamental iron fence in Stuttgart, Little Rock, or central Arkansas? Free on-site estimate, written quote, no high-pressure sales.
Call (501) 626-7024 Get a Quote