You might be surprised to learn that most landscapes are not, in fact, flat! Chances are your yard has some level of grade to it, whether it’s a slight variation or a complete hillside. This can have some impact on the process of installing a wrought iron fence. Some manufacturers choose to use a fence panel that bends in accordance with the grade of your yard, but this is not the most ideal solution.
Panels that can ‘rack’ up and down a grade tend to have a weaker weld that will bend. This ends up decreasing the overall strength of the panel. Iron that bends usually causes the finish to pop off as well, leaving your fence vulnerable and susceptible to rust.
Addressing Fence Slopes
So if the solution is not to bend, how does one handle installing a wrought iron fence over a hill or slope? That will depend largely on how much grade there is. For cases where there is only a couple inches of variation, nothing really needs to be done and the fence can be left alone. For a more even look you can always re-grade by leveling off small bumps using a shovel or filling with landscaping material.
Sometimes fences will be installed with a stair-stepping approach. In this case, panels are mounted between posts and then mounted next to one another a little higher or lower, depending on the grade. This creates a stepped look for the fence, and is the most common solution for fences with a grade. Longer posts may be required for bigger grades. Your Fencing professional will advise you as needed.
In some unique cases where the slope is too great even for stair-stepping, custom panels may be used. Slope measurements are taken and custom panels made to follow the slope. Some customers also prefer this option aesthetically over the stair-stepped look.
Aluminum and Iron Fences from Hercules Custom Iron
Are you installing an aluminum or iron fence for your next project? Hercules Custom Iron is here to help. By working with professionals, you can ensure you end up with the right fence contractor for the job and the right fence for your home. That’s where Hercules Custom Iron comes in. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or giving us a call at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.