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How Installing Metal Fencing Impacts Home Value

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 04:40:48 GMT

Quality metal fencing around your property offers privacy, security, and a 70% return on investment . This profitable upgrade will offer several benefits if you decide to sell in the future. Here's a closer look at how the installation positively impacts home value and attracts house hunters.

Why Fences Raise Property Value

The boundary helps boost curb appeal by adding visual interest. Whether it wraps the entire property or only the back half, most designs are visible from the road and attract the eyes of passersby. It also offers convenience, as buyers that desire a fence are likely willing to pay a higher amount for a home with one already installed.

Additionally, fencing creates a safety barrier. It boosts security by keeping out unwanted guests and animals while preventing pets and kids from wandering. These qualities are attractive to young families, allowing you to list a high purchase price.

What to Consider When Choosing an Option

Think about the needs and desires of future buyers. For example, if aesthetics is a top priority, opt for decorative fencing. Look for designs with lots of detail that also complement the current exterior design scheme.

If security is a concern, install tall and durable metal fencing to offer peace of mind. The addition of pickets with pointed tops is also an attractive security feature, as they'll discourage trespassers. If you're selling in a neighborhood that appeals to young families, choose wide-gauge pickets with small spacing to prevent their pets and kids from wandering away.

If you want to install a fence before listing your house, turn to Creative Iron Arts in Hayward, CA. These professionals will help you choose an eye-catching metal fencing design that attracts buyers, enhances curb appeal, and raises your property value. Get more information about their products online , or call (510) 910-2175 to request a free estimate.

3 Types of Residential Fences

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 04:36:33 GMT

There are several fence styles and materials available, and each has its own unique look, from basic chain-link to beautiful wrought iron . While some options can be installed to boost security, others can complement your home’s architecture and enhance its curb appeal. Here are a few suggestions to consider if you want to install a residential boundary.

A Guide to Fence Materials

1. Vinyl

Vinyl fences are usually made to imitate wood and feature a grain pattern, and they offer more durability than the natural material. They look best with rustic homes, including cottage and ranch styles. Choose from a split-rail fence with long horizontal rails running between occasional upright posts or a picket fence, which has a face made up of many upright boards close together.

2. Wrought Iron

Wrought iron is the most decorative style available. This material is best suited for elegant brick and stone houses and those with many exterior embellishments, such as crown molding, as they need an elaborate fence to match.

It comes in many patterns, with arrowhead points, loops, curlicues, plant motifs, and gold decorations. Choose a style that echoes the shapes of your home—for example, tall and pointed posts for a property with a high-peaked roof.

3. Simple Metal

For a modern house, a simple fence with clean lines and minimal texture is ideal. Metal fences can be made in a regular, straightforward style, featuring thin, round or square posts and rails. If you want something with more visual interest, opt for a style with simple geometric shapes, like circles or a diamond pattern.

If you want to install a fence around your house, turn to Creative Iron Arts in Hayward, CA. This company has provided homeowners with stylish, custom residential boundaries since 1991. Its professional fabricators focus on producing high-quality metal pieces, including ornate wrought iron and simple metal fences. View a gallery of their past work online , or call (510) 910-2175 to request a free project estimate.

A Guide to Solid & Hollow Iron Balusters

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 04:31:53 GMT

If you are renovating your house and wish to install custom metal railings, you’ll have to decide between hollow wrought iron and solid iron balusters. Also known as spindles, balusters provide handrail support and safety in addition to decorative elements. Learn about solid and hollow balusters here to determine what’s best for your home.

Solid

Solid wrought iron balusters typically weigh 3 pounds each. Because they are forged rather than machine-made products, solid balusters have a rough texture likened to Old World styles. Product weight makes these balusters more expensive to ship than hollow versions. Their solid nature also contributes to cutting challenges during installation, which can increase labor costs.

Forging solid balusters allows artisans to create complex designs. Products may feature “S” shapes and other curved styles that add beauty and originality to homes. Solid spindles are also strong, durable products with little to no flex. This makes them a safety-conscious and attractive choice for your home.

Hollow

Hollow balusters use a higher-quality iron but in lower quantities, making them less expensive than solid balusters. They are poured and shaped via mold casting processes, resulting in smooth finishes with rounded corners and a weight of about 1.5 pounds each. The hollow products are lightweight compared to solid balusters and therefore cost less to ship. While they are relatively flexible, that flex does not impact their durability. Hollow balusters are considered just as strong as solid versions, especially when they include high-grade steel.

These products do not offer as many design possibilities as their forged counterparts because they are made in molds, but their simplistic appearance makes them ideal for any contemporary residence. Installation costs are less, as well, because cutting through the hollow products takes less time. Both hollow and solid balusters meet building code standards to help your home safety efforts.

Work with the metal fabricators at Creative Iron Arts for custom wrought iron balusters and railings you’ll enjoy for years. This full-service design and build company serving Oakland, CA, and the surrounding areas creates elegant metal products that improve home aesthetics and safety, working closely with clients to ensure satisfaction. Call (510) 910-2175 today to request a free estimate, or visit their website to view past i nstallations.

3 Tips for Maintaining Custom Metal Balusters & Railing

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 04:25:35 GMT

If you're planning to have metal balusters or railing professionally installed in or around your home, they will add another layer of ornate beauty to the property, especially if maintained properly. Here are several tips for keeping these custom metal decorative pieces looking their best.

A Guide to Taking Care of Metal Railing & Balusters

1. Dust Weekly

Keep dust and debris away with weekly dusting; a clean microfiber cloth or feather duster will do the trick to remove unwanted particles. Use the cloth to wipe along the custom metal ornaments' grooves and crevices, and dust any spaces underneath where bits of debris can also become trapped. Use a vacuum cleaner or broom to eliminate particles that fall on surrounding floors and stairs.

2. Polish When Needed

Once in a while, do a deep clean of your metal balusters or railings. Use non-abrasive cleaning products; a solution of one part white vinegar and two parts water will remove any accumulated grime and restore the attractive metal luster. Saturate a clean cloth in the solution and wring out the excess before thoroughly wiping down all the areas, then dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots. Avoid steel wool for cleaning or polishing, as it can cause scratches in the metal coating that may trap dirt and lead to rusting.

3. Take Care With Sharp or Heavy Objects

Custom metal pieces are highly durable, but sharp objects may cause minor scratches on the coating that protects your railing and balusters from oxidization. Keep knives and other sharp utensils away that could knick the coating and cause chipping. Be cautious when carrying heavy or hard-edged furniture over the stairs, as scraping or bumping them against the metal railing and balusters could also damage this coating.

If you're thinking about installing beautiful metal railing or balusters in your home, come to Creative Iron Arts in Hayward, CA. This premier metal fabrication company specializes in beautifully crafted custom metal designs. From precise blueprints and unique styles to safe and accurate installations, count on these fabrication specialists to make your home's interior and exterior stand out. Visit the website to learn more, or call (510) 910-2175 to speak to a professional technician about your no-obligation estimate.

3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Metal Gate

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 03:52:47 GMT

Metal gates not only provide entry and exit points on a property but also enhance security and privacy and boost curb appeal. A well-constructed gate will maintain its strength and functionality for many years, but the time will come when even the best gate wears down. Here are three common signs that the time has come to replace your gate.

How to Tell If You Need a New Metal Gate

1. Structural Damage

Gates can be exposed to all sorts of hazards that impact their structure and stability. Damage from vehicles, falling trees or limbs, and extreme weather events are just a few examples. In most cases, the longer the damage goes unattended, the worse it will get. You especially want to consider a new gate if there is significant leaning, sagging, or warping, as these often indicate impending failure that could result in property damage or personal injury if the gate falls.

2. Rust

Most metals will rust if they haven't been treated with protective coatings, haven't been cared for properly, or have been subjected to an inordinate amount of rainfall. Rust occurs when the metal is exposed to oxygen and moisture, and once the process begins, it can be difficult to reverse. If you see rust spots on your current gate, especially around joints and hinges, it's time to consider a new one. Consider obtaining a new gate made with wrought iron, which has a fibrous makeup that provides a high level of defense against rust.

3. Worn Hinges or Fasteners

A gate needs to open and close smoothly on its hinges and fasteners. Once these components start to break down, they will cause the unit to squeak during movement. You may also see the bottom of the gate scraping the ground as the connectors loosen. Whether the wear is from routine use, rust, or accident damage, a new unit will restore full functionality and increase the stability of the surrounding fence.

If you experience any of these metal gate issues, contact Creative Iron Arts . Since 1991, these metal fabricators have been serving residents of Hayward, CA, with custom gates designed to meet the needs of each client's property, style, and budget. They also design metal staircases, balconies, handrails, awnings, and other products. Call (510) 910-2175 to request a quote, or visit their website to learn more about their services.

3 Benefits of Installing Metal Stairs at Home

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 18:10:26 GMT

Many people slowly evolve their homes over time to include more modern elements. For some, this means eventually replacing a worn-down or unfashionable staircase. While these fixtures can be made out of many materials—including wood, stone, or tile—many property owners are discovering the advantages of custom metal staircases . The guide below explores why you might want to make this investment.

Why Choose a Metal Staircase?

1. Low Maintenance

Most people with carpeted stairs have struggled to balance a vacuum on a too-short step. Being able to sweep steps clean, like you can with metal, is much more convenient. In addition, metal doesn't show scratches, scuffs, or spills as easily as wood does. As a result, the stairs will not require regular waxing, resealing, or staining to disguise damage from walking over them in wet or pointy shoes.

Metal also doesn't crack or warp when it expands and contracts with changes in temperature the way wood does. Because of this, you can expect this element of your home to last for a lifetime with minimal maintenance.

2. Beautiful & Variable

While wood can provide natural elegance and glass stairs can appear light and airy, metal has endless versatility. Not only can different kinds of metal be used depending on your preferences, but metal fabricators can easily turn your staircase into a statement piece of your home. For example, contractors can shape wrought iron into flowers, your family's crest, or creatively make a design of sharp angles. This can suit different aesthetics that range from "quaint country home" to "modern, museum-like masterpiece."

3. Easy to Install

Designers can alter their plans to fit whatever space you have in mind. For example, if your current straight stairs take up too much living space, they might suggest opting for a spiral instead. If you want simple, wide, no-nonsense stairs that can work with a stairlift, they can do that as well.

While your custom metal staircase will require precise measurements and forethought, the pieces needed for this project will be crafted ahead of time at an area off-site. Combined with metal's light weight, these home fixtures are easier to install than their wooden counterparts, so you can enjoy the finished results sooner.

If you're interested in outfitting your property with a custom metal staircase, reach out to Creative Iron Arts in Oakland, CA. This full-service company creates beautiful, functional wrought iron products for indoor and outdoor use. They can also enhance your current stairs with new railings for added safety. To request a consultation with their team, call (510) 910-2175 . To see photos of some of their designs, visit the website .

3 Benefits of Wrought Iron in Outdoor Design

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 18:04:49 GMT

Wrought iron is a strong and beautiful material frequently used for fencing, railings, and awnings. It can even be fashioned into attractive outdoor furniture. With appropriate upkeep, wrought iron fixtures will become valuable long-term investments for your home. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect.

Why Use Wrought Iron in Your Exterior Spaces?

1. Highly Durable

Wrought iron is a fibrous alloy, which makes it corrosion-resistant and far less susceptible to breaking than normal iron. This is why items made of this metal, such as outdoor benches, patio furniture, and plant stands, hold their forms over many years despite regular exposure to weather or weight. Furthermore, the metal is non-toxic, unlike some paints and stains for vinyl or wood that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

2. Low-Maintenance

Wrought iron’s durability means its repair costs are relatively low since few forces can damage it. Even though it is resistant to oxidation, any metal can rust if not properly cared for, which is why most wrought iron pieces are given a rust-proof coating for additional protection. Cleaning is simple: if a fixture becomes noticeably dirty, wash it with warm water, liquid soap, and a sponge or wire brush, then dry the surface with a non-abrasive cloth. The rust-repellant coating can easily be reapplied every three years or so to reseal any scratches caused by dirt or debris.

3. Versatile

For centuries, wrought iron has been utilized as a decorative material in architecture. As a result, it can be seen in a wide variety of design styles, ranging from traditional to modern and minimalist. Because of its versatility, wrought iron is also an excellent material for customizing your outdoor fixtures. Make your metalwork distinctive by using intricate patterns or designs and by combining it with other building materials, such as glass, wood, steel, or brick.

If you are ready to bring the beauty of wrought iron into your backyard design, turn to Creative Iron Arts in Oakland, CA. This metal fabrication company has over 30 years of experience creating and installing custom wrought iron products for clients throughout the Bay Area. Visit their website or call (510) 910-2175 to discuss your project with a team member.

How to Choose a Quality Metal Fabricator

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:39:33 GMT

If you're in need of metal fabrication at your home or business, choosing the right company will go a long way toward ensuring great results. High-quality custom metal fixtures should not only be aesthetically appealing but also able to stand the test of time, and the company should be one you can trust. Here are several factors to consider when deciding who will help enhance your property.

What Should You Look For in a Metal Fabrication Company?

1. Experience

Metal fixtures fabricated for homes should be pleasing to the eye to ensure great visual appeal, and they must also be sturdy and dependable. A fabricator with experience is more likely to achieve these two goals with ease. Years of experience allow metal fabricators to properly hone their skills and abilities until they're able to create an impressive finished product.

2. Reputation

Craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customer service can all affect a business's reputation. When a fabricator exhibits all these qualities in their work, they're more likely to enjoy a great reputation with customers. You can determine what consumers think of a business by checking out online reviews, although there is also the option of asking the business for references of its own.

3. Services

Not all fabricators offer the same services, so review this with the company before moving forward. For example, some businesses focus on practical applications of metal for architectural and structural purposes, while others excel at ornamental uses. If you're planning a new handrail or gate at your home, look for a fabricator who is comfortable creating aesthetic embellishments in addition to handling practical aspects of the new fixture.

If you are looking for quality and professional metal fabrication services, reach out to Creative Iron Arts in Oakland, CA. Backed by more than 31 years of experience, their impressive attention to detail is evident in every fixture they create, from gorgeous balconies to elaborate wrought iron fencing. As a full-service company, they handle a wide range of projects and will personalize their services to meet your needs. Learn more about what these metal fabricators offer by visiting the website , or get started on a free estimate by calling (510) 910-2175 today.

4 Ways to Maintain Wrought Iron

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:39:33 GMT

Wrought iron is an attractive material for residential properties. It has a rough finish with decorative features that highlight its intricate curves. However, when it comes to preserving appearances, it requires several steps. Take a closer look at the following to ensure the proper level of care.

How to Care for Wrought Iron

1. Clear Away Brush

It can be difficult to trim the weeds that grow underneath your wrought iron fence. The issue is that these clumps tend to retain moisture, which can increase the risk of rust. This will cause a gradual decay that could jeopardize the integrity of the metal. Use a pair of hand shears to clear away the taller growth and give the fence a chance to dry out.

2. Keep It Clean

Dirt and debris that collect along the surface of wrought iron furniture will soon become nearly impossible to remove. Any moisture will cause it to turn into clay and stick like glue to the inner sections of the design. Wiping it down at least once or twice a month with a solution of warm water and mild detergent should keep it looking pristine.

3. Repair Damage

If rust has a chance to take hold, then you'll need stronger treatment. Use a fine-wire brush and sandpaper to gently scrub the affected area. Once you remove the flakes, scrub the metal clean and leave it to dry. Apply a coat of wax, protective spray, or paint to prevent additional moisture from causing issues.

4. Cover With Tarp

Families who go away for an extended period should cover their wrought iron furniture with a tarp. Secure it with a couple of bungee cords or rope to ensure it doesn’t blow away. This will serve as a barrier against the elements and keep dust from collecting on the material.

If you’re looking to include wrought iron in your home or landscape design, reach out to Creative Iron Arts in Hayward, CA. This full-service metal fabrication company specializes in creating custom pieces. Their staff is skilled at both design and installation and provides a personal approach to each project. Call (510) 910-2175 to request a free estimate or visit their websites for examples of their metal fencing and gates.

A Guide to Metal Awnings

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:39:33 GMT

A building's awnings or overhangs are coverings affixed to its exterior walls to provide shade from the sun. While they are available in a variety of designs that might enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, they are typically constructed of fabric or metal. If you're considering installing an awning on your home, here's what you can expect from the ones made of metal.

What Are the Different Types of Metal Awnings?

Supported Flat Metal Awnings

You may have seen a flat metal canopy supported by two arms over your favorite outdoor restaurant. Such a structure can withstand harsh weather conditions better than a fabric canopy. For instance, fabric awnings can shield your home from sun rays and light rain, but they aren't as durable as metal against hail and strong wind. In addition, metal awnings can be customized to match the look of your home without compromising on protection from the elements.

Unsupported Metal Awnings

As with flat metal types, you can customize unsupported awnings to meet specific requirements. Because this canopy lacks arms that reach the ground, it requires a stable mounting base for support in the air. To avoid collapse, limit the proportions of an unsupported metal canopy to 20 feet wide; it should project no more than 4 feet from the building. You can install multiple awnings side by side if you wish to cover a larger area.

Hybrid Fabric and Metal Awnings

This canopy is the ideal balance of design and shade. Typically, the fabric is set down on a metal frame. The awning itself allows nearly endless creative options, while the robust metal base ensures the structure isn't easily displaced by wind. This results in improved aesthetics and weather protection.

Why Install a Metal Awning?

No matter the style or metal type, here's what this kind of shade can offer:

Durable: Steel and iron are some of the longest-lasting metals used in the construction of canopies, able to withstand the elements.
Stylish: Fabricators can achieve a modern look while maintaining functionality. Additionally, it is relatively easy to coordinate with any decor.
Fire Retardant: The melting point of wrought iron is around 2,800 degrees, so you can rest assured that it won't spread a fire.

Protect your home interiors from the sun by installing a custom metal overhang from Creative Iron Arts in Oakland, CA. Their team of artisans creates wrought iron and steel awnings tailored to your preferences. They also build railings, fences, metal gates, and spiral staircases for clients throughout San Francisco and the surrounding areas. Visit the website to see how they transform your property with expertly fabricated metalwork. Call (510) 910-2175 to discuss your needs.

bsbv7136-dukkteo3q8ett8u9

How Installing Metal Fencing Impacts Home Value

Why Fences Raise Property Value

What to Consider When Choosing an Option

3 Types of Residential Fences

A Guide to Fence Materials

1. Vinyl

2. Wrought Iron

3. Simple Metal

A Guide to Solid & Hollow Iron Balusters

Solid

Hollow

3 Tips for Maintaining Custom Metal Balusters & Railing

A Guide to Taking Care of Metal Railing & Balusters

1. Dust Weekly

2. Polish When Needed

3. Take Care With Sharp or Heavy Objects

3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Metal Gate

How to Tell If You Need a New Metal Gate ﻿

1. Structural Damage

2. Rust

3. Worn Hinges or Fasteners

3 Benefits of Installing Metal Stairs at Home

Why Choose a Metal Staircase?

1. Low Maintenance

2. Beautiful & Variable

3. Easy to Install

3 Benefits of Wrought Iron in Outdoor Design

Why Use Wrought Iron in Your Exterior Spaces?

1. Highly Durable

2. Low-Maintenance

3. Versatile

How to Choose a Quality Metal Fabricator

What Should You Look For in a Metal Fabrication Company?

1. Experience

2. Reputation

3. Services

4 Ways to Maintain Wrought Iron

How to Care for Wrought Iron

1. Clear Away Brush

2. Keep It Clean

3. Repair Damage

4. Cover With Tarp

A Guide to Metal Awnings

What Are the Different Types of Metal Awnings?

Supported Flat Metal Awnings

Unsupported Metal Awnings

Hybrid Fabric and Metal Awnings

Why Install a Metal Awning?

How to Tell If You Need a New Metal Gate