how to build a wrought iron fence

how to build a wrought iron fence

In this article we will show you how to complete a wrought iron fence installation by using one of our recent projects in Allen Texas. As a result, you should be equipped with the knowledge to build your own fence or at least be familiar with the process when hiring us.

First thing to remember, please use proper safety gear if you are replicating a project like this and are using similar tools such as a grinder or bandsaw.. I’m not giving you a speech to make it sound an OSHA inspector. Its truly from my heart to yours. For one thing, Angle grinders are especially dangerous. As a result, I never use a grinder/bandsaw without gloves and eye protection.

determine your goal for the fence

In this situation, the goal is to enclose a porch area. In addition, the primary purpose is keeping a small dog contained. We want something low maintenance and cost effective

select quality material

We are using Forney Fence Supply for our iron fence installation. The steel tubing is 14 gauge. To put into perspective, it is the same structural thickness as if we were hand fabricating custom wrought iron in the shop but it has added benefit of a superior coating because the metal is galvanized before it is powder coated.

mark your layout

Measure everything and mark where your posts are going to be set with a pencil. Now is the best time to talk to your customer (or significant other) and communicate any “preferences” before drilling your holes. Gate posts are directly to the left and right of the your walk gate. One side will hold the hinges and the other will hold the latch and receiver. The gates I have here are 48 inches wide. so that means that the opening from inside post to inside need to be 51″. That is equally important when installing your anchors.

drill holes

Use a 6″ concrete bit with rotary hammer drill. If you have a shop vac, its good to vacuum out the concrete dust after drilling so the anchor grabs securely . I like to put one anchor in so it holds the post in place while drilling the remaining 3 holes. Keeps it in place.

anchor your posts

You will need to use washers underneath your posts to adjust them to be level. We are using 3/8×3.5 simpson screw in anchors. Another key point, if you are using sleeve anchors then it is absolutely necessary to use construction adhesive before setting your anchors.
After you have all your anchors installed and posts are level, throw on your decorative boots to cover the anchor bolts. Only a couple more step and your fence installation will be complete!

hang gates and panels

Secure your adjustable hinges to the posts. You will need a half inch bit for your drill to tighten these down. Next, secure your latch. This is a simple bolt you tighten with an 11/16″ wrench. Cut the panels to size using your right angle grinder. Keep in mind to leave a little room for the brackets as they are 1/8″. After cutting them to the appropriate size, insert your brackets and use your drill to screw them into the post with self tapping screws.

cut down posts

We are getting close to the end now. Note where the top of the panel is, then measure up one inch and cut your post there. You will need to cut down your posts. This step is done last incase you need to adjust the height of the gate or adjacent panels. In general, I like to use a portable bandsaw beacuse its more efficient when you have alot of posts to cut but you can use your grinder as well.

touch up and clean up

In conclusion, touch up any areas with black spray paint. It is important to realize that anywhere you have to touch up paint, that area will wear faster than the uncompromised coating. As a result of the coating wearing faster, It will be good to communicate to your customer or make note where these areas are so you can maintain them every couple of years. Congratulations on completing your iron fence installation!

If you feel that now is not the time for a new install, thats ok we also can help with iron fence repair and iron fence paitning if that suits your situation better. Give us a call to set up an appointment to check out your project together. We understand every once in a while you just need someone to listen and give you an honest evaluation. We can do that!