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Month: November 2022

Steel Fencing Fife vs Metal Fencing Fife

Wrought steel and metal fencing fife are both strong and long-lasting, and they provide an air of timeless beauty to your house that can’t be achieved with any other fencing material. Steel and wrought iron may seem similar, but both metals are really very different, with steel having a higher carbon content and wrought iron having a lower one, so there are certain factors to think about when determining which is best for your house.

See how steel and wrought iron fence compare in terms of strength, adaptability, and visual appeal to make an informed decision.

Cast Iron

Iron is mined directly from the ground as a raw material. Wrought iron is a kind of iron alloys with a very low carbon percentage, as opposed to pure iron or cast iron. Before the invention of steel, wrought iron was perhaps the most popular type of malleable iron because to its combination of toughness, malleability, corrosion resistance, and weldability. That it can be shaped by hammering, rolling, and heating gives it the “workable” part of its name.

Swords, chisels, axes, and other cutlery, along with files and springs, were among the most in-demand items made from wrought iron throughout history. However, some wrought iron was converted to steel, but as the steel manufacturing process grew simpler and cheaper, steel gradually replaced wrought iron as the preferred material.

Steel

Steel is an iron-carbon-and-other-elements alloy. Buildings, tools, ships, machineries, appliances, autos, weaponry, and infrastructure all benefited from its inexpensive cost and great tensile strength.

However, it wasn’t until the 17th century that steel was used commercially. Until then, the method was impractical because to its high cost and high difficulty, but with the development of steel manufacturing, it became a viable choice for a wide range of metalworks.

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Durability

Fencing made of steel or wrought iron is sturdy and will survive for many years because of these qualities. The primary distinction between the two is that steel fencing is an alloy of iron, whereas wrought iron is made up of just iron. As a result of the incorporation of carbon, steel is somewhat more robust than wrought iron, increasing its durability and resistance to environmental and mechanical stresses.

Wrought metal fencing fife, on the other hand, has a greater inherent resistance to vibration and shock which helps to offset the metal’s softness. Additionally, tiny breaks in wrought iron happen gradually, giving you enough time to fix or replace the fence. Once steel has been compromised, it will shatter without warning. Furthermore, steel tends to shatter from a forceful strike, which might be worrying in disaster-prone regions.

How Welding Works

Welders have greater leeway when working with wrought iron since it is more pliable. If you choose with wrought iron, you may pick from a greater variety of decorative designs and embellishments.

When compared to other types of steel, the steel used by welders is mild and has very little carbon, making it somewhat more robust after being welded. To make it, less energy is needed since it warms up quicker than wrought iron. But since steel isn’t as simple to mold as other materials, many steel fence or fence accent are molded in acrylic or other elements to obtain the amount of detail sought.

Pricing

The cost of steel or wrought iron fence or railing may be affected by the welding process. Production costs tend to be cheaper for steel fence since it can be made more quickly and with less energy. However, wrought iron requires less effort to form, which might reduce its total cost.

Price might vary depending on factors like the kind of metal used and the scale and complexity of the project, so it’s important to acquire an estimate that’s tailored to your specific design and demands.

metal fencing fife

Corrosion

The nickel and chromium in steel give it a rust-resistant edge over wrought iron. Steel loses some of its strength and durability compared to iron if it doesn’t include these components. However, wrought iron may be rust-free and last for generations if given the right treatment and maintenance.

Aesthetics

Steel and wrought iron are both attractive on their own, and they can be easily kept looking fresh, primed, and painted to prolong their life and protect them from the weather. When compared to more traditional materials used for fence, such wood or aluminum, they will provide a comparable aesthetic for your property.

When deciding which metal to use for your home, the distinctions are minor but significant. Wrought metal fencing fife not only provides your property a majestic aspect but also acquires a distinctive patina over time as a result of oxidation, giving it a look that is unequalled any other fencing material and evoking images of royalty and the Old World. Steel lacks the sophistication of wrought iron, but it is more durable and gives a more contemporary appearance.

Conclusion

This comparison of steel and wrought metal fencing fife has shown many similarities between the two materials; nonetheless, it is essential to remember that these two metals are not interchangeable. Both kinds of metal fence may endure for decades, so it’s important to think carefully about the pros and cons of each before making a final decision.

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HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR GARDEN FENCING FIFE

Alpine Timber is renowned across Dundee as the go to company for quality garden fencing fife installation. It’s a huge undertaking that requires a lot of hard work. A fence, even at the low prices we provide, is an asset in your property. Although our fences are intended to endure, they eventually need to be replaced. In order to ensure the maximum life span of your fence, you must take things to yourself. The longevity of your fence is directly proportional to how well you take care of it. After the construction crew has left, you’ll be responsible for keeping your fence in good condition. Absolutely, you are not alone. To help you keep your fence in good condition, we have compiled this advice.

The upkeep required of your fence will vary with the materials used to construct it. To a greater or lesser extent, water is the enemy of any barrier. Your fence’s deterioration is probably due to water damage. You may extend the life of your garden fencing fife by doing simple things like keeping it clean. When all else fails, a good cleaning may do the trick. Nonetheless, the requirements for one material can’t be assumed to apply to another.

Upkeep of a Wooden Fence

Among the most traditional garden fencing fife materials is wood. However, being a natural product, wood presents unique issues in the area of upkeep. The main threat is water, as we’ve already established. Water expedites the rotting process that occurs in wood. Pests that consume wood, such termites, carpenter ants, and carpenter bees, are another source of worry. Lastly, wood may be damaged by the sun’s bleaching and drying effects, which can lead to splintering, warping, and final collapse. However, this issue may be mitigated with routine servicing.

garden fencing fife

Wood Preservatives

Applying a sealant like paint or stain right after the fence is built is the first step in keeping it in good condition. Waiting four to six weeks after installing pressure treated wood allows the wood to dry out fully before painting or staining. Taking this precaution will protect your timber from the destructive effects of moisture. It is recommended to wait 2-3 years between painting projects. It’s recommended to reapply stain every three to five years.

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Taking Stock of the Damage

Every month, take a stroll around your garden fencing fife to inspect it for signs of wear and tear. Check for splinters, holes, sagging posts, and broken or loose pickets. Keep a look out for loose nails, which might be present if the fence wasn’t erected properly. Pickets in a wood fence may be easily replaced if they are ever cracked or damaged. You can generally simply hammer the loose nails back into place if you locate any.

Scrubbing the Rails

Maintaining a tidy fence is also essential. Cleaning the dust and pollen from your garden fencing fife should just take a few minutes with some soapy water. Strong garden hose water or a mild power washer should remove more stubborn stains. Look out for any stains that could be green or black. Stains of a dark green or black colour are often the result of mould or algae and cannot be removed by washing. Mold and algae stains will return if the spores that cause them aren’t eliminated. Mold and algae are easy enough to eliminate with a simple solution of chlorine bleach and water (one cup bleach to one gallon water). White vinegar may be used in lieu of bleach for a greener alternative.

Upkeep of an Ornamental Fence

Most homeowners who opt for an ornamental fence do so because of how beautiful it is. Ornamental fences may provide both security and curb appeal to a property, but they do need regular upkeep to retain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Metal fences have the same problem with water as wooden fences. Ornamental fences made of steel or aluminium are often coated with a sealant to preserve its colour, strengthen the material, and make it more resistant to corrosion. When inspecting an ornamental garden fencing fife for needed maintenance, it is most crucial to search for dings and scratches that might have compromised the coating. Corrosion of the underlying metal may occur if water is able to seep through any cracks in the covering.

garden fencing fife

Basic Tidying

It is best to spray an ornamental fence from the ground up and then back down with a garden hose to clean it. For the most effective cleaning with little leaking, spray in that sequence. Clean any lingering grime with a gentle cloth and some soapy water. When cleaning stubborn dirt and grime from a fence, it is best to use a soft power wash on the lowest heat to prevent harming the protective coating.

Localize the Problem and Fix It

Walk the entirety of the fence once a month and inspect it carefully for nicks, gouges, and other damage. Examine the walls for any signs of paint that is chipping, flaking, or peeling. If you notice the problem before the rust sets in, fixing it won’t be too much trouble. Remove the peeling paint first with a wire brush. After the area has been cleaned well, apply two coats of priming and two coats of rust-resistant paint. If rust has formed, the area must be stripped of paint and corrosion using a wire brush. 

Upkeep of a PVC Fence

The vinyl fence requires the least amount of care and upkeep. A vinyl fence, however, does need occasional maintenance. Most of the problems that arise with other materials are not present with vinyl. It resists decay and corrosion. As it hasn’t been painted, it won’t chip or flake. There’s no risk of warping or moisture absorption with this material. The vinyl is built to last because to its sturdy composition. Nonetheless, grime and stains on the surface might make a vinyl fence seem worn and outdated.

Maintenance of a Vinyl Fence

Vinyl fences are very easy to maintain and clean. As a rule, nothing more complicated than a lawn hose is required. Spray from the bottom up, then back down again. Sponges dipped in soapy water may be used to eliminate any lingering stains. When cleaning a vinyl fence, the only time you’ll need anything extra is if the stains are still active. Typically, black, yellow, or greenish algae are responsible for living stains. You’ll need to eliminate the algae that’s causing the stain in order to win. Killing the algae and removing the discoloration requires a diluted mix of chlorine diluted bleach or, for a more natural method, white vinegar and water, as well as some elbow work. If you have a big enclosure and washing it by hand would take too long, consider renting a power washer and cleaning it using a concentrated cleaning solution designed for power washers.

Conclusion

The most common cause of fence failure is unsurprisingly water. The easiest method to keep your garden fencing fife in perfect condition and extend its life is to clean it regularly with a hose pipe, wash it by hand, or use a power washer. Every two to three years, or every five to six years, fences made of wood need to be refinished or restricted. Concerns about the protective coating’s integrity are paramount with an ornamental fence. Patching up any imperfections with primer and paint is a good plan of action. There is no need to do more than a quick surface cleaning to keep a vinyl fence as good as new.

Choosing The Right Garden Fence Panels Fife

Your choice of a fence to demarcate your garden. And, it will have an effect on the aesthetic value of your property and on the degree of privacy. The encouraging news is that you may choose your garden fence panels fife from among a wide variety of options. Because there are many different choices, it may be tough to decide which one to really install on your computer.

Certain types of fence materials could not only provide protection from the native flora and fauna. But they can also be the most aesthetically pleasing option for your yard. Should you want to enclose your garden with a fence. Following are some considerations to take into account while selecting, the best kind of fencing.

Security

Animals can be kept out of gardens with the help of fences is one reason of its widespread usage. If you want to keep the local wildlife out of your garden. The first thing you need to do is determine what sorts of animals already call that area home.

Some of the more common animals that may be a problem in a garden are groundhogs, raccoons, deer, skunks, and voles. All of these creatures should be avoided. It will be easier for you to take preventive actions in your garden if you first identify the probable species of pests. For instance, a rabbit guard might be necessary for smaller rodents, but a welded-wire fence would be necessary for larger ones.

Garden Fence Panels Fife

Privacy

Putting up a fence around your garden is an excellent method to conceal what you are cultivating from prying eyes. It is important to consider if your garden is located in the front yard or is next to a neighbour. The degree of seclusion you want in the garden will have an impact on the construction materials. And, this can be achieved from your materials choice. When compared to the less private atmosphere created by black railing fences. The cosier atmosphere created by closed-board wood panels provides an ideal spot to unwind and take it easy.

It’s possible that you won’t be able to keep an eye on what’s going on. In the rest of your yard if your garden is enclose by a privacy fence. However, a wall might assist hide unsightly features of your yard that you don’t want visitors to view.

Style

Your choice of garden fence panels fife will almost always have an effect on the overall appearance of your garden. For instance, if you want your garden to have a contemporary and elegant appearance, a black rail fence would be an excellent choice. If your backyard has more of a country feel to it, you may want to consider installing a fence made of wood. Choose a material for your fence that complements the design of the rest of your backyard and garden.

Maintenance

Think about how much time and effort you are prepare to put into maintaining your garden. And the time required for selecting the fence. This will help you narrow down your selections. Wood, PVC, and metal are the three materials that are use most often in the construction of garden fences. Garden fences made of plastic and metal are fantastic options since they need minimal maintenance.

In contrast, wooden fences often need maintenance and cleaning. It is common practice to apply wood preservatives to wooden fences and then paint them at regular intervals every few years. If this does not occur, the state of the material will worsen.

Plants

If you have climbing plants in your yard, you may want to consider installing an openwork fence so that the plants can grow through the openings. Openwork fences are an excellent option for smaller gardens that need to make the most of the available planting space.

If your garden is on the smaller side and you need to weed it, for example, you can find yourself working quite close to the boundary fence. Due to the fact that it is open-sided, the garden fence panels fife provides more mobility even in spaces that are otherwise constrained. There are two varieties of openwork fencing: one uses wires stretched between wooden posts, while the other uses black rails.

When looking into the many possibilities for a garden fencing design, keep the following advice in mind. After you have selected a material, get in contact with the installation specialists at Alpine Timber Ltd to discuss your options.