Here at Cheshire Metalcraft, we may be the experts in the gate industry, but we like to think that we are well versed in other wrought iron alternatives too. After all, we also have a wide variety of window grilles, balconies and railings made from the best wrought iron on the market. Plus, all of our products are manufactured in house! Read on as we delve into the history of wrought iron railings…
The development of blast furnaces in the 15th century is thought to be how some of the first wrought iron railings were manufactured. In fact, they can often be found in well maintained church yards dating back to the 1400s. The popularity of wrought iron prospered until the late 19th century when steel emerged, leading to the development of cast iron decorative features like gates, railings and panels. With this said, wrought iron remained an integral part of Victorian architecture and continued to be installed in a wide range of locations in order to provide security and adorn a property with typical Victorian features.
With this said, the Second World War caused over 60% of wrought iron railings to be removed and melted down in order to help the war efforts. Eventually, it was discovered that iron could not be repurposed in such a way and a lot of the metal railings were dumped at sea. Interestingly, Victorian wrought iron railings located near basement levels were not removed in order to prevent people from falling during the blackouts.
Despite its inability to be recycled, wrought iron is a very malleable metal which means that it can be easily bent. This means that any damage can often be fixed rather than replacing it with a new design, allowing the modern 21st century to relish in the old Victorian architecture. Nowadays, wrought iron production is a successful industry and the metal can be used in order to make a wide variety of products for property owners who are looking to add an old-fashioned aesthetic to the exterior of their home. By using various welding equipment, our manufacturers are able to create customized security features for properties. The manufacturers work in a workshop, creating beautiful iron pieces. The workshop is extremely organized, as we make use of lead reels for welding hoses to make sure the workshop is kept clean and hazard-free. This helps us to find equipment quickly, allowing us to be more productive and efficient.
Whether you are securing your garden or looking for a perimeter for a public space, our wrought iron railings are a triple threat as they offer durability, reliability and security. In fact, our team of highly-qualified contractors are more than experienced enough to help you make the best decision for your needs. To find out more information about our range of railings, get in contact with the best gates in Manchester and speak to a member of the Cheshire Metalcraft team today!