Metal fencing is really strong and can also have a really timeless look. If you have decided to install an ornamental iron fence or railing on your property, there are a few things that you need to consider, such as your existing outdoor style and design, your need for a gate, and how you want to top off your fence to look, with either hand railing or ornamental toppers on it. 

Overall Outdoor Style & Design

The first thing that you want to take into consideration is the overall style and design of your yard. A metal fence will last for a really long time, so you want to make sure that the style that you choose is something that will work with your home not only now, but decades down the road.

That means going with a classic look that will stand the test of time and that will work with the most set-in-stone features of your home, such as the architectural style of your home. Look through a design catalog to get a good idea of all the different choices that you have for your iron fence, and try to choose a design that will work with your home.

Need for a Gate

Next, you need to consider if you need a gate with your fence or if you just want an opening in your fence. For example, if you are putting the fence around your pool, you are going to want to make sure that you have a nice tall fence with a secure gate that has a high lock. Or if you are putting a fence around a garden, perhaps you want a gate with a lock that is lower to the ground and easy for both kids and adults to access. The type of gate you need and the type of locking mechanism that you need on the gate depends on how restrictive you need the access to be. A gate around a pool or pond needs restrictive access to keep children out, a gate that gives access to your home or garden may need to be less restrictive.

Type of Topping for Your Fence

One of the fun parts of a steel fence is that you can add an ornamental topping to your gate. This is where you can get a little creative. You can add a topper that is nice and simple, or you can add something that is more ornate and decorative. The more decorative you make the topper, the more unique your steel gate will look.

Type of Railing

Finally, you need to think about the type of railing that you want to put on your fence, especially if you plan to put a metal fence along a staircase or around your deck. You are going to want to make sure that your fencing has a nice handrail on it when it is serving as railing around a deck, stairs, or any other area where someone may need to hold onto the top of the fencing for balance reasons. In these types of situations, you may also want to forgo putting a topper on your metal fence or railing, as this will interrupt the flow of your handrail. 

When designing the metal fencing to go around your property, and metal railing to go around your patio and staircases, you need to think about the overall design and look of the metal, and how it works with your home. You need to evaluate if you need a gate, and what type of security you want the gate to provide. Then, you need to determine if you want to add a handrail, or if you want to put fancy tops on your fence. 

For more information, reach out to companies like Diamond Iron LLC.