How to Add Wood to Wrought Iron Fence

On its own, a wrought iron fence can have a bit of an imposing, unwelcoming look. Though there’s something very elegant about wrought iron, it’s not exactly warm. Adding some wooden elements to a wrought iron fence is a great way to balance this.

A wrought iron and wood fence can bring a perfect blend of privacy, style, and strength to your property. It’s versatile, suiting many different home styles, and it will certainly stand the test of time!

But how do you construct a wrought iron fence with wood? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to add wood to wrought iron fence. We’ll cover the tools you need, offer some installation tips, and explain how to maintain your fence for years of privacy and security.

Why Build a Wrought Iron and Wood Fence?

A wrought iron fence with wood blends the timeless, elegant look of wrought iron with the natural warmth of wood, making it a great choice for anyone who wants the best of both worlds. Let’s explore why building a wrought iron and wood fence might suit your property.

Aesthetic Appeal

One of the main reasons to choose a wrought iron fence with wood is the stunning visual appeal it creates. The sleek lines of wrought iron bring a modern, sophisticated look, while the wood adds warmth and a natural element that complements outdoor spaces.

You can add alternating panels, wood slats within iron frames, or custom finishes that reflect your home’s style. Whether you prefer a rustic or contemporary aesthetic, a wrought iron and wood fence can bring significant curb appeal.

Privacy Benefits

On their own, wrought iron fences don’t offer a lot of privacy, but adding wood to the design can solve this problem. Solid wood panels or slats provide coverage that blocks the view from the outside, giving you the best security fence and more privacy without sacrificing style.

This is perfect in residential settings where you may want a secluded backyard or pool area. By integrating wood, you maintain the style of iron while enjoying the practical benefit of increased privacy.

Durability and Strength

Wrought iron is known for its strength and longevity, making it a great material for fencing. When combined with wood, it can be even more durable and strong. Wrought iron is highly resistant to damage from impact or rust when properly maintained, while wood adds an extra layer of support.

The sturdiness of iron helps protect the wood from warping or breaking over time, while the wood shields certain areas of the fence from wear and tear. Together, these materials create a fence that is both durable and strong, providing long-term value and putting more money back in your pocket.

How to Add Wood to Wrought Iron Fence: Step-by-Step Guide

So, let’s talk about how to add wood to wrought iron fence. Whether you’re looking to upgrade an existing fence or build a new one, here’s how to install wrought iron fence with wood elements.

Planning Your Design and Measuring

Before starting your project, it’s essential to plan the design and layout of your fence. Decide how much wood you want to incorporate – whether you’re adding full wood panels for privacy or smaller wood slats between the iron rails.

Measure the sections of the wrought iron fence where you plan to attach the wood, making sure the dimensions align with the size of your wood panels or slats. Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure a perfect fit and to avoid unnecessary cutting or material waste.

Gathering the Right Materials and Tools

Once your design is finalized, gather all the necessary materials and tools for the project. You’ll need:

Wooden slats or panels (typically cedar, redwood, or treated lumber for outdoor durability)
Metal brackets and screws (appropriate for both wood and iron)
Drill with metal and wood bits
Measuring tape and level
Saw (if custom cutting wood is required)
Sandpaper or a sander (for smoothing wood edges)
Wood sealer or stain (find the best stain for cedar fences here)
Safety gear (gloves, safety goggles, etc.)

Make sure to purchase high-quality materials to ensure the fence stands the test of time, especially if the fence will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. If you are in a tough climate, check out these guides on how to prepare fence for winter and how to brace a fence against wind.

Preparing the Wrought Iron for Installation

Before you figure out how to add wood slats to wrought iron fence, inspect the wrought iron for rust or debris. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any rust spots or rough areas, ensuring the surface is clean and smooth.

This step is important because any corrosion left on the metal can worsen over time and affect the structural integrity of the fence. If needed, apply a rust-inhibiting primer to protect the wrought iron from future damage. Allow it to dry fully before proceeding to the next step.

Attaching Brackets to the Wrought Iron Fence

To secure the wood panels or slats to the wrought iron fence, you’ll need to attach metal brackets. These brackets are designed to connect wood to metal securely. Start by positioning the brackets at the desired locations along the wrought iron frame, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Use a drill with a metal bit to create pilot holes in the iron where the screws will go. Then, fasten the brackets to the fence using appropriate screws that are rated for outdoor use. Make sure the brackets are level and tightly secured, as they will provide the main support for the wood.

Installing the Wood Slats or Panels

Now, it’s time to learn how to add wood to wrought iron fence. Depending on your design, you may be installing vertical slats, horizontal panels, or even decorative patterns. Position the wood pieces against the brackets, ensuring they are properly aligned and level.

Use a drill with a wood bit to secure the slats or panels to the brackets with screws. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this can damage the wood. Continue installing the wood along the entire length of the fence, checking that each piece is evenly spaced and properly attached.

Sealing and Staining the Wood

Once the wood is installed, it’s important to protect it from the elements using a high-quality wood sealer or stain. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a clear sealant to maintain the natural wood look or choose a stain that complements the color of the wrought iron.

Sealing the wood will help prevent water damage, rot, fence leaning, and fading caused by exposure to the sun. Use a brush or sprayer to apply the sealer evenly, following the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.

Tips on Maintaining a Wrought Iron Fence With Wood

Now that you know how to add wood to wrought iron fence, it’s time to learn how you can preserve your fence to keep it in tip-top shape, saving you from costly, time-consuming repairs year after year. Here are some tips to get you started.

Preventing Rust on the Wrought Iron

Rust is one of the biggest threats to wrought iron. To prevent rust from forming, make sure the iron is properly sealed with a rust-inhibiting primer and paint or finish. Over time, rain and humidity can cause paint to chip and expose the iron beneath, so inspect the fence regularly for any signs of rust or peeling paint.

If you spot rust, learn how to clean wrought iron fence and apply a fresh coat of rust-resistant paint. It’s a good idea to check your fence annually, especially before winter or rainy seasons when moisture levels are higher.

Weatherproofing the Wood Components

For a wrought iron fence with wood slats, you have to worry about both rust and rot! To protect the wood in your fence, apply a sealer or wood stain designed for outdoor use. This will help the wood resist water damage, rot, and UV fading.

Depending on your climate, you may need to reapply a protective coat every 1-2 years to keep the wood looking fresh and weatherproof. If you notice cracks, warping, or signs of decay in the wood, replace the damaged sections.

Cleaning and Routine Inspections

Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining both the iron and wood components of your fence. Dirt, debris, and moisture can build up on the surfaces, leading to potential damage if left unchecked.

For wrought iron, use a soft brush or sponge and a mixture of mild soap and water to remove dirt, and be sure to dry the metal afterward to prevent rust. For the wood, a gentle cleaning with water and a soft brush should suffice, but avoid power washing, as the pressure can damage the wood fibers.

Also, periodically check the brackets and fasteners holding the wood and iron together. Tighten or replace any loose or rusted screws to ensure the structural integrity of your fence.

Source Materials or Leave the Entire Project to the Experts at Viking Fence in Texas!

When it comes to installing a wrought iron fence with wood slats or panels, you have two main options: sourcing the materials and completing the project yourself or entrusting the work to professionals. Either way, our experts at Viking Fence can help!

We have the best quality fencing materials, four decades of local DFW fencing experience, and unbeatable prices. We locally manufacture almost everything, with an on-site lumber mill, custom iron facility, and gate fabrication facility to make all different types of gates for driveways.

If it’s fencing supplies you need, we’re your go-to for:

Don’t want to deal with learning how to add wood slats to wrought iron fence? No worries! Our team has the experience and resources to handle the entire process, from design and material selection to installation and finishing.

We use only the finest materials to ensure long-lasting, weather-resistant fences that add value and security to your property. And, with an extensive on-site inventory of materials, we can have your fence installed faster than anyone else. Contact us here for a quote:

We can help with any project, from adding a wrought iron fence with wood slats to giving you some country driveway gate ideas, or even installing a chain link fence on a slope. We do it all!

Final Thoughts on How to Add Wood Slats to Wrought Iron Fence

So, now you know how to add wood to wrought iron fence! The combination of wrought iron’s durability and wood’s natural warmth creates a beautiful, long-lasting fence that offers privacy, strength, and style.

If you’re going to add wood to your wrought iron fence, it’s essential to use only the best quality fencing materials. You don’t want to have to deal with costly repairs or replacements after just a year or two – start with the best materials for a fence that stands the test of time.

At Viking Fence, we manufacture most of our own materials, which means we don’t have to wait on slow suppliers, and also means we have quality products you just won’t find anywhere else. And, if you don’t want to install your own fence, our experts can run the whole project for you!

Don’t take any chances when it comes to protecting your property – call Viking Fence for a quote today.