Written by

Sarah Noel

September 20, 2023

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Wrought iron fence cost

Installing a wrought iron fence costs $10,000 to $17,000 on average. The cost of a wrought iron fence is $50 to $85 per linear foot installed, depending on the height, type, iron quality, and coating. Adding a wrought iron gate costs $200 to $650 for materials alone.

Cost of wrought iron fence by height

The cost of a wrought iron fence is $50 to $85 per linear foot for heights of 4' to 6' tall. The cheapest 3' tall wrought iron fences cost $40 to $50 per linear foot but this height is less common.

Wrought iron fence prices by type

Wrought iron fence prices vary by the design type and fence coating used:

Plain black

A plain black wrought iron fence costs $50 to $60 per linear foot installed. The cheaper prices apply for uncoated fence types 4' tall. The higher prices are for fences up to 6' tall with a thicker black coating. This plain fencing has straight pickets and a minimum of two horizontal bars for bracing support.

Galvanized

A galvanized wrought iron fence costs $60 to $65 per linear foot installed for the average 5' to 6' tall models. These prices are for simple designs, and the added zinc coating protects this galvanized metal from rusting.

Ornamental

An ornamental wrought iron fence costs $65 to $85 per linear foot installed with specialty designs like twisted pickets and decorative scrolls. This price applies to most types from 5' to 6' tall. Ornamental fences are most common in the front yard or around high-end properties.

A custom-designed ornamental fence costs $85 to $130 per linear foot, depending on the total amount of work and welding involved. The higher iron content of this exclusive type also drives up the price.

Wrought iron gate cost

A wrought iron gate costs $200 to $650 on average for materials alone. The total cost installed depends on the size, iron quality, and whether it's a single or double door. Electric-powered door openers and connections to a security system are the most expensive gate-installation options.

• A wrought iron gate for a single-car driveway costs $4,000 to $6,000 installed with an automatic swing-opener and wireless keypad.

• Wrought iron swing gates 10' wide or larger cost $6,500 to $9,000 installed with a solar-powered supply system for automated opening.

Wrought iron fence cost estimator

The average labor cost to install a wrought iron fence is $15 to $25 per linear foot. See the following table for an installation cost breakdown:

Wrought iron fence installation costs depend on the following factors:

• Site preparation:

  • Old fence removal costs $7 to $20 per linear foot extra, including disposal.

  • Yard grading costs $500 to $3,000 for leveling an uneven property.

  • Tree removal costs $150 to $500 to uproot a small tree.

  • Tree stump removal costs $100 to $400.

• Customizations & finishing – Ordering custom designs has higher costs and takes longer due to the craftsmanship of welding by hand.

• Brick or stone columns – A brick pillar or column costs $500 to $1,800, and a natural stone driveway pillar costs $1,300 to $3,000.

• Height & length – Taller and longer fences have higher costs for materials and installation labor. However, the cost per linear foot decreases on big jobs.

• Thickness – While thicker fences provide better security, the additional iron raises the total material costs.

• Iron quality – High-quality wrought iron with 99% iron is more durable and rust-resistant but comes at a higher price from local blacksmiths.

• Design – Closely spaced bars increase strength and security but also increase material costs. The cheapest iron fences have only 2 horizontal reinforcement bars, while expensive types have 4+ horizontal bracing bars.

• Delivery – Delivery costs depend on the distance to the installation location. Some installers include free local delivery for smaller fences.

• Posts – Many wrought iron fences are heavy and need concrete posts set into the ground before installing the fence. The size and type of the posts affects the cost.

• Number of gates – Adding multiple gates, specialized gates, or custom-size gates increases the overall project cost.

• Fence location – Hard-to-reach areas with obstructions may require more labor and specialized equipment, increasing the cost.

• Geographic location – Urban areas typically have higher costs than rural areas.

• Surveying – A land survey costs $200 to 1,200 to mark property lines and show where to legally build a fence.

• Permit – A fence permit costs $40 to $150, depending on the location.

• Lighting & accessories:

  • Outdoor lighting installation costs $80 to $300 per fixture.

  • Landscaping costs $50 to $100 per hour for general yard work.

Pros and cons

Wrought iron fences are costly to install, so consider the following advantages and disadvantages before installing a wrought iron fence:

Wrought iron vs. other fence types

Wrought iron fences are more costly that other fence types. Some less costly fence installation alternatives include:

• A wood fence costs $20 to $50 per linear foot.

• A vinyl fence costs $30 to $60 per linear foot.

• An aluminum fence costs $25 to $75 per linear foot.

• A metal fence costs $20 to $85 per linear foot.

• A chain-link fence costs $9 to $30 per linear foot.

Wrought iron fence FAQs

Why should I install a wrought iron fence?

People typically install a wrought iron fence for their durability, higher security, and elegant aesthetic appeal. This fence type outlasts most other fences and is more customizable to your style preferences than other fencing options.

What should I consider when installing a wrought iron fence?

When planning to install a wrought iron fence, consider factors like:

• Budget – A wrought iron fence is the most expensive type, though it is also long-lasting.

• Maintenance requirements – Unless you buy a 99% iron fence, you'll need to continue repainting and sealing the fence regularly to prevent rust.

• Local codes – Homeowners associations might have regulations about which designs you're allowed to install, which affects the cost.

Does a wrought iron fence add value to a house?

Wrought iron fences and gates significantly boost your home's curb appeal, potentially increasing its value and leaving a lasting first impression.

How long does a wrought iron fence last?

A well-maintained wrought iron fence can last for 50 to 100 years. The longevity depends on how much iron content is in the metal, the craftsmanship, environmental conditions, and how well you maintain it. Pure wrought iron with 99% iron content lasts for many generations without rusting.

The mass-produced modern wrought iron or "mild steel" is more prone to rust due to the lower iron content.

How do I take care of a wrought iron fence?

Take care of your wrought iron fence by cleaning regularly, removing rust, and applying fresh paint annually.

• The cost to paint a wrought iron fence is $5 to $12 per linear foot.

• Wrought iron fence repair costs $300 to $1,100 on average.

How do I make a wrought iron fence more private?

You can make a wrought iron fence more private by adding bamboo screens, decorative slats, or by planting landscaping elements like tall plants or shrubs next to it.

• Landscapers charge $25 to $85 to plant a shrub.

• Privacy hedges cost $15 to $45 per linear foot.

What is the difference between wrought and cast iron?

The difference between wrought and cast iron lies in their manufacturing processes and carbon content. The word "wrought" means handcrafted while "cast" means poured into a mold. Casting makes metal more brittle from the solidification in molds, and more carbon is added to cast metals.

• Real wrought iron is 99% iron so after a blacksmith heats it, they shape it into intricate shapes by hand with their tools. Traditional wrought iron is very expensive and not mass-produced. Only a blacksmith makes real wrought iron fences.

• Modern wrought iron is "mild steel" made into traditional wrought iron designs and coated or painted to look like iron. This type of wrought iron is the most common and mass-produced.

Getting estimates from wrought iron fence installers

Before hiring a wrought iron fence installer near you, be sure to:

• Read their online reviews on Google and HomeGuide.

• Confirm they have licenses, insurance, and have been in business for 5+ years.

• Avoid choosing the cheapest bid that typically results in low-quality work.

• Ask for a list of references.

• Compare 3 to 5 in-person estimates.

• Ask for a written contract and workmanship warranty before the work starts.

• Don't make your last payment until after the job is complete.

Questions to ask a fence installer

Evaluate potential fence installers by first asking them:

• How many years have you been installing wrought iron fences?

• Can you show me photos of past projects with wrought iron fences?

• What is the expected time for installation?

• How much maintenance will the fence require?

• Which coatings do you recommend?

• Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your work?

• How many people will install the fence?

• Are there any potential challenges with my property?

• Can you handle the necessary permits and inspections?

• Are all materials, labor, delivery, and the cleanup fee listed in this estimate?

• What steps do you take to prevent rusting if this material has low iron content?

• Will the fence installation affect my landscaping?

• Do you call the utility department to mark where underground lines are?

• Do you have any references I can contact?

• How much can you customize the fence design to match my home's style?