Steel or iron are two materials which can be used to enhance your property in a number of different ways and they have many benefits, both practically and aesthetically. From bespoke iron gates to stainless steel countertops, there are many different ways these metals can be used to improve the look and security of your home. If you’d like to find out more about why steel and iron are much sought after materials and the ways you can use them to enhance your property, see below for our handy guide. 

There are many different types of metal out there, but steel has several properties which make it an excellent choice above other metal alternatives. Steel is a combination of iron and carbon which makes it incredibly durable and strong, and when properly coated, it won’t erode, rust, rot or catch fire. Proper coatings also make it weather-resistant, meaning it’s ideal for products such as railings or gates as it won’t rust or become weak in wet weather. 

Despite its strength, another advantage is that steel is actually very flexible. This allows it to be wrought into all sorts of bespoke, creative shapes, allowing customers to design gates, railings or balconies in beautiful, intricate designs. 

Steel is also highly affordable and naturally energy efficient; it’s 100% recyclable which means it reduces the overall amount of CO2 emissions released into the air. 

Wrought iron is an iron alloy with a very low carbon content (in contrast to cast iron). This makes it very workable as a material and it can be bent, forged or rolled while hot into a number of intricate shapes. Despite its malleability, wrought iron is still very strong, which makes it the perfect choice for intricate gates or railings. 

As it’s an alloy, it’s also highly resistant to rust so won’t tarnish or degrade in wet weather. If your iron gate or balcony is looking a bit tired, however, it’s a very simple material to restore and can look good as new with a new coat of paint. Wrought iron is also fully recyclable and can usually be sold to a scrap metal dealer for a competitive price. Choosing iron is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint as this material hardly ever needs to be replaced, and even when it does, the old iron can be recycled into something new. 

As you can see, the flexible and durable nature of steel and iron make them ideal building materials for both the inside and outside of your home. From delicately wrought balconies to solid security gates, read on for some of the ways you can use steel and wrought iron to enhance your home. 

Adding a balcony to your property not only looks stylish, but it can also provide valuable outdoor space and increase the overall value of your home. There are many balcony options available, from a slim width Juliette balcony to a larger balcony where you can sit outside and entertain. 

The type of balcony you choose will depend on the type of property you live in and your budget, but a wrought iron or steel Juliette balcony gives a lovely focal point to frame French doors. A stainless steel balcony or balcony railings looks sleek and modern, and it’s a low maintenance material which will stay shiny and rust-free for a very long time. 

If you have the space and budget, consider adding a larger extended balcony (a building company will be able to give you options which comply with any necessary buildings regulations). A glass balcony with steel railings ensures any views aren’t obscured and provides an excellent space to entertain outdoors. 

Steel or wrought iron railings can be forged in a wide variety of different styles and enhance both the aesthetic appeal and the security of your property. If you’re looking to protect your home with extra security but are worried metal railings will look harsh and uninviting, not to worry; iron railings can be made in many delicate, intricate patterns. 

Traditionally made iron railings are timeless and elegant, so you don’t have to worry about them looking dated in years to come. They’re also highly durable and can withstand all weather conditions, making them an excellent choice for the outside of your property. 

Unlike a wooden fence, iron railings will provide a secure perimeter around your property which won’t rot or wear down in bad weather, and they’re much harder to breach if you’re concerned about opportune break-ins. 

Many people choose to include a wrought iron gate which matches the railings on their property and a secure gate can significantly enhance the curb appeal and security of your property. Like railings, wrought iron gates can be crafted in a variety of shapes and designs, from a minimalist modern style to a more ornate, traditional gate. 

The malleability of iron means that most metal gate fabricators can work with you to create a bespoke design for your gate, but there are many popular styles to choose from, including bow top, flat top, post and ball, and spiked. Iron gates are also incredibly durable and strong, providing a powerful deterrent to any would-be intruders and ensuring your property stays safe and secure. 

If you’re choosing to install or replace a staircase in your home there are many decisions to make, including the location, size and material. Many people nowadays are choosing to opt for steel, either for the main structural frame, the handrails or the entire staircase. A steel frame with glass steps creates a stunning modern look and opens up the space if your home is on the smaller side. 

A staircase with a steel frame will also be extremely strong, and even if you choose a timber overlay for the actual steps, it removes the worry of the stairs becoming weak over time. If you’re looking for a more ambitious design, steel can even be used to create one staircase that serves both the inside and outside of your home; for example, linking an outdoor balcony or deck on the first storey of your house all the way to the ground floor. This also removes the need to use separate materials as steel is just as hard-wearing and durable whether it’s used inside or outside. 

Choosing stainless steel countertops for your kitchen has many advantages and gives a sleek, modern feel if that’s the type of style you like. Stainless steel is resistant to water, heat, stains, rust and almost anything else you can think of. This makes it an ideal material for a kitchen, which is arguably the room in your home which sees the most wear and tear. 

Stainless steel is also very easy to clean and spills such as grease, oil, wine or acids can be easily mopped up without damaging or staining the countertop. Steel is also flexible enough to be used in a variety of interesting designs, or you could include a steel countertop with a sunken sink for a seamless, streamlined look.

If you’ve been thinking about enhancing your property with steel or iron, get in touch with the expert team at Underwoods Steel. As the steel stockholder and fabrication specialists in the West Midlands, we have everything you need to transform your home with high-quality metal materials. We can work with you to bring your bespoke designs to life, whether it’s for a balcony, gate, railings or more.

To find out more about our services or to discuss your requirements, give us a call today or visit our website.