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01 · Ask
Railing, gate or feature piece?
Practical security or decorative feature? Describe and the AI tells you style and budget options.
Order wrought iron gates.
Heritage wrought iron — pedestrian and driveway gates, scrolled or plain, hot-dip galvanised.
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Hire a blacksmith. Hot-forged, hot-zinc'd.
Read the brief on hot-forged vs cold-bent and finishes — then let Three local blacksmiths quote.
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02 · Read the brief
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Hot-forged finish, galvanising, powder-coating, period styles, structural calcs. Know what 'bespoke' actually means.
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Hot-forged vs cold-bent.
Hot-forged metalwork has the hammered texture and tapered ends; cold-bent is regular factory bar. Big visual difference, especially for heritage.
Get a hot-zinc or powder-coat finish.
Bare steel rusts within 18 months outdoors. Galvanised + powder-coat = 25-year life. Insist on the finish on the quote.
Match the period.
Victorian railings, Edwardian gates, Art Deco balconies — distinct profiles. A blacksmith should sketch options before fabricating.
Get a structural calc on gates.
Large driveway gates need engineering for wind load and hinge strength. £200 of calcs saves £2,000 of failed posts.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Bespoke railing (per linear m)
£250–£700
Garden gate (single, hot-forged)
£500–£2k
Driveway gates (pair)
£2.5k–£12k
Balustrade (per linear m)
£350–£900
Repair / re-paint existing
£250–£1.5k
Custom hardware (handle, hinge)
£80–£400
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
InfographicThe Metalwork & Blacksmith briefing.
Infographic
Metalwork & Blacksmith quick-view
Wrought iron gates provide security and heritage character. Bespoke designs from local blacksmiths. Expect to pay £600–£5,500 for UK wrought iron gates.
What Does the Work Involve?
Blacksmith designs gate to fit opening. Custom forged ironwork. Powder coated or wrought iron finish. Hinges to brick piers. Lock mechanism. Optional motorisation. Heritage match for listed properties.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard wrought iron gate | 500 | 1,800 | Single, simple |
| Decorative wrought iron gate | 1,200 | 3,500 | Premium |
| Double drive gates | 1,500 | 5,500 | 2-pane |
| Heritage match listed building | 2,500 | 10,000+ | Specialist replica |
| Motorised wrought iron | +£800 | +£3,000 | Plus motor system |
| Side gate (smaller) | 300 | 900 | Domestic standard |
| Install labour | 200 | 800 | Plus brickwork |
How Long Does It Take?
Standard bespoke gate: 4-8 weeks lead. Install: 1-2 days.
DIY or Professional?
Specialist blacksmith essential. Heritage work specialist.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Local blacksmith. NABA (National Association of Blacksmiths) member. Listed building experience.
UK Regulations
Listed buildings need consent. Conservation areas may restrict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrought iron vs steel?
Wrought iron: heritage character, lighter, more decorative. Steel: cheaper, modern, mass-produced.
How long do they last?
Quality wrought iron: 100+ years with maintenance. Painted refresh every 10-15 years.
Motorised wrought iron?
Yes — £800-£3,000 additional. Linear actuators. Convenience worth it.
Heritage match for listed?
Specialist blacksmith. Period-correct design. Heritage consent required.
Maintenance required?
Annual paint touch-up. Hinge lubrication. Light surface rust treatment.
Cost vs aluminium gates?
Wrought iron: 2-3x aluminium. Premium for character and longevity.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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