Everything Homeowners Should Know Before Installing a Wrought Iron Fence

If you're thinking about installing a wrought iron fence, you've probably got a lot of questions. Is it worth the investment? Will it rust? Is it safe for pets? Will it meet pool code? How long will it last?
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After personally building fences across North Texas for more than 25 years, I've learned that the quality of a wrought iron fence isn't determined by how it looks on the day it's installed—it's determined by how well it's built, the materials used, and the attention to detail during installation.

Whether you're installing a fence around your pool, your front yard, your backyard, or your entire property, here's what every homeowner should know before making a decision.

Why Choose a Wrought Iron Fence?

Modern wrought iron fences—more accurately called ornamental steel fences—offer an excellent combination of strength, security, and curb appeal. Unlike wood fencing, they don't block your view, require very little maintenance, and can last for decades when built with quality materials.

They're an excellent choice for:

• Swimming pools
• Front yards
• Decorative property boundaries
• Pet containment
• Security fencing
• Large backyards
• Lake properties
• Homes with scenic views

A well-designed wrought iron fence adds elegance without making your property feel closed in.
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Choosing the Right Style

Not every wrought iron fence is the same. The right style depends on how you plan to use it.
Some homeowners want an open, decorative look for the front of their home, while others need a secure pool enclosure or a fence designed to safely contain pets. Height, picket spacing, gate placement, and decorative accents should all be chosen with your property's layout and your family's needs in mind.
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The best fence is one that's designed specifically for your home—not simply copied from another project.
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The Importance of Quality Posts

Every fence is only as strong as the posts holding it in place.

Proper post spacing, adequate depth, and quality concrete installation are essential for long-term durability. North Texas presents unique challenges because our expansive clay soils swell during wet periods and shrink during dry conditions.

A properly installed post helps prevent:

• Leaning fences
• Loose panels
• Gate sagging
• Fence movement during high winds

This foundation work is one of the most important parts of the entire project.

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Why Powder Coating Matters
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One of the biggest advantages of today's ornamental iron fencing is its durable powder-coated finish.
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Unlike traditional paint, powder coating bonds to the metal during manufacturing, creating a smooth, durable finish that resists:

• Rust
• Chipping
• Peeling
• Fading
• Weather damage

Quality powder coating helps your fence maintain its appearance for many years with minimal maintenance.
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Will a Wrought Iron Fence Rust?

This is one of the most common questions I hear.

The answer depends on the quality of the materials.

Most modern ornamental iron fences are manufactured from galvanized steel and then finished with a high-quality powder coating. Galvanizing protects the steel beneath the surface, while powder coating adds another layer of defense against moisture and weather.

Like any exterior product, damage to the finish should be repaired promptly, but a properly manufactured fence is designed to resist rust for many years.

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Gates Matter More Than Most People Realize
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Gates experience more stress than almost any other part of a fence.

Every time a gate opens and closes, it places pressure on the hinges, latch, and supporting posts.
Quality gates should include:

• Heavy-duty hinges
• Strong gate frames
• Proper alignment
• Secure latching hardware
• Smooth operation

For pool fencing, self-closing hinges and self-latching or magnetic latches are often required for safety and code compliance.
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A well-built gate should continue operating smoothly long after installation.
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Pool Fence Requirements

Many homeowners choose wrought iron because it provides excellent visibility around swimming pools while helping keep children and pets safe.

Pool fencing requirements vary by city, so it's important to understand local regulations before installation.
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Common requirements often include:

• Minimum fence height
• Self-closing gates
• Self-latching or magnetic latches
• Proper spacing between pickets
• Appropriate clearance beneath the fence

Working with an experienced installer helps ensure your fence meets applicable local requirements.

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Are Wrought Iron Fences Good for Pets?
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Absolutely—when they're designed correctly.

For larger dogs, a standard wrought iron fence often works well.

For smaller dogs or puppies, adding puppy panels to the lower portion of the fence can greatly reduce the spacing and help prevent pets from slipping through.

The right fence design depends on:

• Breed
• Size
• Age
• Activity level
• Whether your pet likes to climb or dig

Every property is different, so pet safety should always be considered during the design process.
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Why Professional Installation Makes the Difference

A quality fence starts long before the first panel goes up.

Professional installation includes:

• Careful layout
• Accurate measurements
• Proper post placement
• Level installation
• Correct gate alignment
• Quality hardware
• Attention to detail from start to finish

Even the highest-quality fence materials won't perform as intended if they're installed improperly.

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Maintenance Is Simple
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One reason many homeowners choose wrought iron is the low maintenance.
To keep your fence looking its best:

• Wash it occasionally with mild soap and water.
• Inspect gates and hinges annually.
• Tighten hardware if necessary.
• Touch up damaged areas promptly if the finish is scratched.
• Keep vegetation from growing through or against the fence.

Compared to many other fencing materials, maintenance requirements are minimal.
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Why Experience Matters

After more than 25 years of personally building fences throughout North Texas, I've learned that every property is different. Soil conditions, drainage, gate placement, slope, pets, and intended use all affect how a fence should be designed and installed.

At Mike Downs Fencing, I personally build every fence we install. We never use subcontractors or rotating installation crews because I believe every homeowner deserves the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail from start to finish.
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Whether we're installing a decorative front-yard fence, a secure pool enclosure, or a custom pet-friendly design, my goal is always the same: build it right the first time using quality materials and proven installation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a wrought iron fence last?
A properly installed galvanized and powder-coated ornamental iron fence can last for decades with routine maintenance.

Does wrought iron require painting every few years?
Modern powder-coated fences typically require very little maintenance and do not need frequent repainting.

Can wrought iron be installed on sloped property?
Yes. Experienced installers can adjust panel placement to accommodate changes in elevation while maintaining an attractive appearance.

Is wrought iron good for pool fencing?
Yes. It's one of the most popular choices because it provides security without blocking visibility.

Can wrought iron keep small dogs inside?
Yes, especially when equipped with puppy panels designed for smaller pets.

Will my fence rust?
Quality galvanized steel with a durable powder-coated finish is designed to resist rust and weathering for many years.

Is wrought iron stronger than wood?
For security, durability, and longevity, ornamental iron generally outperforms wood in many applications.
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How do I know what style is right for my home?
The best design depends on your property, intended use, HOA requirements, and personal preferences.

Mike Downs Fencing - Serving North Texas since 2002
903-814-8118
www.fencingplusmore.com 


Serving North Texas with Quality Fence Installation
Mike Downs Fencing proudly installs custom wrought iron fences, wood privacy fences, chain-link fences, split-rail fencing with no-climb wire, and custom gates throughout North Texas, including Sherman, Denison, Pottsboro, Whitesboro, Howe, Van Alstyne, Anna, Melissa, Celina, Prosper, Gunter, Aubrey, Pilot Point, Sanger, Gainesville, Bonham, Trenton, Whitewright, Leonard, Tom Bean, Collinsville, Muenster, and surrounding communities.
When you hire Mike Downs Fencing, you're hiring more than a fence company—you're hiring over 25 years of experience and the peace of mind that comes from knowing Mike personally builds every fence.
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  There are several excellent pet-friendly fence options, and the right one depends on your pet's size, behavior, your property, and your goals.

At Mike Downs Fencing, we build custom wood privacy fences, wrought iron fences, chain-link fences, and three-rail fences with no-climb wire. Every fence can be customized to meet the specific needs of your pets, whether you're keeping in a small puppy, a large active dog, multiple pets, or creating a safe backyard for your entire family.

After more than 25 years of building fences across North Texas, I've learned that there isn't one perfect fence for every homeowner. The best fence is the one that's designed around your property and your pets.
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What Is the Best Fence for Dogs? The best fence for dogs depends on several factors:
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• Your dog's size
• Whether your dog likes to jump or climb
• Whether your dog barks at everything they see
• How much privacy you want
• Your budget
• The size of your yard

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That's why I spend time talking with every homeowner before recommending a fence. Every yard is different, and every pet has different needs.

​Custom Wood Privacy Fences

Custom cedar privacy fences remain one of the most popular choices for pet owners throughout North Texas.

Pros

• Excellent privacy for your family and your pets.
• Reduces distractions from passing cars, people, and other animals.
• Helps minimize barking for many dogs.
• Attractive and adds curb appeal.
• Can be customized in height and style.
• Built with Genuine Western Red Cedar and steel posts, they provide outstanding durability.

​Cons

• Costs more than some other fencing options.
• Requires occasional staining or sealing to maintain its appearance.
• Some very athletic dogs may require a taller fence.

Recommended for: Families wanting privacy, security, and a beautiful backyard.

Wrought Iron Fences

Ornamental wrought iron fencing provides an elegant appearance while maintaining an open view of your property.

Pros

• Beautiful curb appeal.
• Extremely durable.
• Powder-coated for long-lasting protection.
• Low maintenance.
• Ideal around pools and landscaped areas.
• Doesn't block your view.

​Cons

• Standard spacing may allow smaller dogs or puppies to slip through.
• Offers very little privacy.
• Dogs can see outside activity, which may increase barking.

Can Wrought Iron Be Made Pet Friendly?Absolutely.
For homeowners with smaller dogs or puppies, we can install puppy panels along the bottom of the fence. These smaller openings help keep pets safely contained while maintaining the classic look of ornamental iron fencing.

Chain-Link Fences

Chain-link fencing has been protecting pets for decades and remains one of the most practical options available.

Pros

• Budget-friendly.
• Strong and durable.
• Excellent for large yards.
• Low maintenance.
• Long-lasting.

Cons

• Offers no privacy.
• Less decorative than wood or ornamental iron.
• Dogs can easily see everything happening outside the yard.
• Small dogs may require a tighter mesh.

Recommended for: Homeowners looking for dependable pet containment at an affordable price.
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Three-Rail Fence with No-Climb Wire

For country homes, ranches, and larger properties, a three-rail fence with no-climb wire is one of my favorite recommendations.


Pros

• Perfect for acreage.
• Maintains an attractive, open-country appearance.
• Securely contains most dogs.
• Strong and long-lasting.
• Great for multiple pets.
• Allows you to enjoy your view while keeping pets safe.

Cons

• Doesn't provide privacy.
• Not common in neighborhoods with HOA restrictions.
• Wire may occasionally need tightening after years of use.

Recommended for: Homeowners with larger properties who want a natural-looking fence without sacrificing pet safety.

Puppy Panel Options for Wood Privacy Fences

Many homeowners don't realize that wood privacy fences can also be customized for smaller dogs and puppies.

If you have a small breed, a curious puppy, or a dog that likes to squeeze through openings, we can incorporate custom puppy panels into your wood fence design. These panels allow your pets to safely see out while preventing them from slipping through larger openings around gates or other areas of the fence.

Puppy panels can also be built into gates or selected fence sections to improve visibility without sacrificing the privacy and security of a traditional wood fence.

Pros

• Helps safely contain small dogs and puppies.
• Can be custom-built to fit your pet's size.
• Maintains the privacy of your wood fence while providing visibility where desired.
• Adds a unique custom feature that many homeowners appreciate.
• Can be incorporated into new fence construction or certain replacement gates.

​Cons

• Slightly increases the cost of construction due to the custom craftsmanship involved.
• Not every homeowner wants visible openings in a privacy fence.
• Placement should be carefully planned to maximize both safety and appearance.

Recommended for: Families with puppies, smaller dog breeds, or homeowners who want a custom fence designed specifically around their pets.

Why Choosing the Right Fence Matters

A fence isn't just about property lines.

It's about giving your pets a safe place to run, protecting children while they play, creating privacy for your family, and investing in something you'll enjoy for many years.

That's why I personally build every fence we install.

When you hire Mike Downs Fencing, you aren't hiring a revolving crew or subcontractors. You're hiring someone with more than 25 years of experience who takes pride in building every fence the right way—from properly setting posts to making sure every gate operates smoothly.

Serving Pet Owners Across North TexasMike Downs Fencing proudly installs pet-friendly fencing for homeowners throughout Sherman, Denison, Pottsboro, Howe, Van Alstyne, Whitesboro, Gainesville, Anna, Melissa, Celina, Gunter, Prosper, Bonham, Trenton, Leonard, Aubrey, Pilot Point, Sanger, Sherman, Grayson County, Fannin County, Cooke County, Collin County, Texoma, and surrounding North Texas communities.

If you're wondering which fence is best for your pets, I'd be happy to visit with you, answer your questions, and recommend the option that best fits your home, your yard, and your family.

Mike Downs Fencing
✔ 25+ Years of Experience
✔ Veteran Owned & Operated
✔ Mike Personally Builds Every Fence
✔ No Subcontractors—Ever
✔ Custom Wood Privacy Fences
✔ Wrought Iron Fencing
✔ Chain-Link Fencing
✔ Three-Rail Fencing with No-Climb Wire

Best Fence. Best Price.
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🌐 www.fencingplusmore.com
📞 903-814-8118

After more than 25 years of building fences across North Texas, I can tell you one thing for sure—no two backyards
are exactly alike.

Most people think building a fence starts when the first post hole is dug. It doesn't. It starts by understanding the property.

I was born and raised right here in Texas, and every bit of my experience has come from building fences throughout North Texas. I

I've worked through our scorching summers, heavy spring rains, high winds, and everything in between. I've built fences on clay, rock, sand, and just about every type of ground you'll find in this part of the state.

That's why I spend as much time evaluating a property as I do building the fence itself.

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1. The Ground Beneath Your Fence

Every yard is different. 

Some properties have solid ground, while others have expansive clay that swells when it's wet and shrinks when it's dry.

​ Drainage also plays a huge role in how well a fence performs over time.

Understanding what's below the surface helps determine how a fence should be built so it stays straight and strong for years to come.

That's one of the biggest lessons I've learned after more than 25 years of building fences throughout North Texas.

2. How You'll Actually Use Your Fence

Every homeowner has different priorities.

Some want complete privacy for their backyard.

Others need a safe place for children or pets to play.

Some are looking for security around a swimming pool, while others simply want to improve the appearance of their property.
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The right fence starts with understanding how you'll use it.

That's why I take time to recommend the style that fits your needs, whether it's a wood privacy fence, ornamental wrought iron fence, chain link fence, horizontal fence, board-on-board fence, side-by-side cedar fence, split rail fence, pipe and wire fencing, custom gates, or professional fence staining to protect and extend the life of your investment.



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3. The Layout of Your Property

Before we ever dig a hole, I'm looking at slopes, drainage, trees, landscaping, utilities, existing structures, and where your gates need to be.

Good planning today prevents problems years down the road.

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4. The Details Most People Never Notice

​Most homeowners notice the finished fence.

I notice everything underneath it.

Post placement.

Gate openings.

Corners.

Transitions.

Water runoff.

Areas that need extra support.

These are the details that don't just make a fence look good—they help it stay standing for decades.

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​5. Building It Right the First Time


​I've built hundreds of fences over the last 25 years, and one thing has never changed.

I'd rather spend a little more time building it right than come back later to repair shortcuts.

That's also why Mike Downs Fencing never uses subcontractors or revolving crews.
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When you hire me, you're getting me—from the estimate to the final walkthrough. Every fence is built to the same standard because my name is on every project.

6. Knowing North Texas Makes a Difference

One thing I've learned over the years is that you can't build every fence the same way.

A fence installed in Sherman may sit in heavy clay that expands and contracts with the weather.

Just a short drive away, you may hit solid limestone while digging post holes.

Other properties have sandy soil, rolling terrain, drainage issues, or mature trees that completely change how a fence should be built.

That's why local experience matters.

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I've spent more than 25 years building fences throughout Grayson County, Cooke County, Collin County, Fannin County, Denton County, and Bryan County, Oklahoma. Every county—and sometimes every neighborhood—can present different challenges.

Whether I'm building in Sherman, Denison, Howe, Van Alstyne, Whitesboro, Gainesville, Lake Kiowa, Anna, Melissa, Celina, Prosper, Gunter, Aubrey, Pilot Point, Tioga, Sanger, Bonham, Trenton, Leonard, Whitewright, Durant, or anywhere across Texoma, I build each fence based on the conditions of that property—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
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That's experience you only gain by spending decades building fences right here in North Texas.

​Experience Matters

Whether you're looking for a cedar privacy fence, ornamental wrought iron, chain link, split rail, pipe and wire fencing, custom gates, or professional fence staining, my goal is always the same—to build a fence that's made to last.
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If you're thinking about a new fence anywhere in North Texas, I'd be honored to earn your business.

Mike Downs Fencing
✔ 25+ Years of Experience
✔ Born & Raised in North Texas
✔ Veteran Owned & Operated
✔ Mike Personally Builds Every Fence
✔ No Subcontractors—Ever
✔ Financing Available
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🌐 www.fencingplusmore.com
📞 903-814-8118

  ​If you've ever gotten estimates from several fence companies, you've probably heard something like this:
"Our crew will be out Monday."
"Our installers will take care of everything."
"We'll have a team there next week."
Most homeowners don't think much about those words.
I do.
Because one of the most important questions you can ask before hiring a fence contractor is this:
"Who is actually going to build my fence?"
For me, the answer has always been simple.
I am.
When you hire Mike Downs Fencing, you're hiring the same person who comes to your home, listens to what you're looking for, measures your property, answers your questions, and personally builds your fence from start to finish.
There are no subcontractors.
There are no revolving crews.
There are no strangers showing up that you've never met.
That's how I've chosen to run my business for more than 25 years, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

I Didn't Always Feel This Way
A lot of people assume I've always worked alone.
The truth is, early in my career I tried doing things the way many companies do.
I hired crews.
I brought in extra help.
On paper, it seemed like the right business decision.
The problem wasn't that the people were bad workers.
The problem was consistency.
Every crew was different.
Some paid attention to every detail.
Some didn't.
Some took pride in their work.
Others were focused on finishing as quickly as possible so they could move on to the next job.
One crew might build an excellent fence.
The next crew might leave me disappointed.
And at the end of the day, it wasn't their name on the truck.
It wasn't their company people remembered.
It was mine.
That's when I realized something that changed the way I do business.
I can only guarantee the quality of the work if I'm the one doing the work.
That decision shaped Mike Downs Fencing into the company it is today.

A Fence Is Only as Good as the Person Installing It
People spend a lot of time comparing fence materials.
Should I choose cedar?
Should I use steel posts?
Board-on-board or side-by-side?
Those are important questions.
But here's something I've learned after replacing hundreds of fences across North Texas.
The installer matters just as much as the materials.
I've removed fences where the cedar pickets still had years of life left.
The problem wasn't the wood.
The problem was the installation.
Posts weren't set deep enough.
Concrete was inadequate.
Corners had been rushed.
Gates were installed out of alignment.
The homeowner blamed the fence.
The real problem started on the first day it was built.
That's why I believe craftsmanship matters every bit as much as the lumber you choose.

 What Homeowners Never See
Most people judge a fence by how it looks when it's finished.
I understand that.
But after building fences for more than two decades, I've learned the real quality is hidden underground and in the small details.
You don't see the time spent carefully laying out a straight fence line.
You don't see checking every measurement before digging.
You don't see making sure each post is positioned correctly before concrete is poured.
You don't see taking the extra time to make sure gates swing smoothly and latch properly.
Those details aren't exciting.
But they're the difference between a fence that still looks great years from now and one that starts giving you problems long before it should.

North Texas Doesn't Forgive Shortcuts
Growing up and working in North Texas has taught me something.
Our weather can be hard on fences.
We deal with blazing summers, heavy spring rains, strong winds, and expansive clay soils that constantly move with changing moisture.
I've also dug through solid limestone in parts of our area where installing fence posts takes patience and the right equipment.
Every property presents its own challenges.
That's one reason experience matters.
Building fences here isn't the same as building them somewhere else.
Knowing how North Texas soil behaves helps me build fences that are designed to stand up to our conditions.

Why I Choose to Personally Build Every Fence
People sometimes ask me if building every fence myself limits how many jobs I can take.
The honest answer is yes.
It probably does.
But that's a trade-off I'm willing to make.
I'd rather build fewer fences that I'm proud of than build more fences I can't personally stand behind.
When I leave your property, I want to know exactly how every post was installed.
I want to know every gate was adjusted correctly.
I want to know every board was installed the way I would want it if it were my own home.
That kind of confidence only comes from being personally involved in every project.

The Difference You'll Notice
Working directly with the person building your fence changes the experience.
If you have a question, you're talking to me.
If you want to make a small change during construction, you're talking to me.
If you notice something you'd like adjusted, you're talking to the same person who installed it.
Nothing gets lost between a salesperson, a project manager, and an installation crew.
That direct communication helps projects go smoother and gives homeowners confidence throughout the entire process.

Questions I Think Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring Any Fence Company
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Even if you don't hire me, I encourage you to ask these questions.

• Who will actually build my fence?
• Are they employees or subcontractors?
• How much experience does the installer have?
• Will the same people be there every day?
• Who adjusts the gates before the project is complete?
• Who do I call if I have questions during construction?
• Who is responsible if something isn't installed correctly?
• How long has the company been building fences?
• Can they explain why they build the way they do?

A trustworthy contractor should be happy to answer every one of those questions.

Is Using Subcontractors Always Bad?
No.
There are good subcontractors in every trade.
I've met many hardworking people over the years.
This article isn't meant to criticize companies that choose a different business model.
It's simply explaining why I chose mine.
For me, personally building every fence is the only way I know to consistently deliver the workmanship my customers expect.
It's a commitment I've made to myself and to every homeowner who trusts me with their property.

What My Customers Tell Me
One comment I hear over and over is this:
"It was nice knowing exactly who was going to be at our house."
I never take that for granted.
You're trusting someone to work around your family, your pets, your home, and one of your biggest investments.
I believe you deserve to know exactly who's doing that work.

My Promise to Every Customer
I'll probably never be the biggest fence company in North Texas.
And honestly, that's never been my goal.
My goal has always been much simpler.
Build every fence like it's going in my own backyard.
Treat every customer with honesty and respect.
Never cut corners.
Never rush quality.
Never ask someone else to do work that I'm not willing to do myself.
When my name is on a fence, I want to know it was built the right way.
That's been my philosophy for more than 25 years.
It's the reason Mike Downs Fencing has earned the trust of homeowners across North Texas.
And it's the reason I'll continue personally building every fence for as long as I'm able.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Does Mike Downs personally build every fence?Yes. I personally install every fence that Mike Downs Fencing builds. I don't hand projects off to subcontractors or revolving installation crews.

Why don't you subcontract labor?Because I've learned that consistency matters. Personally building every project allows me to maintain the same level of workmanship and attention to detail on every fence.

What types of fences do you install?I install custom cedar privacy fences, ornamental iron fences, chain link fences, ranch and agricultural fencing, custom gates, and provide professional fence staining throughout North Texas.

How long have you been building fences?I've been building fences for more than 25 years and have worked on projects throughout Grayson County, Cooke County, Fannin County, Collin County, Denton County, Bryan County, and surrounding communities.

What areas do you serve?Mike Downs Fencing proudly serves Sherman, Denison, Gainesville, Whitesboro, Howe, Van Alstyne, Pottsboro, Collinsville, Gunter, Anna, Melissa, Celina, Prosper, Aubrey, Pilot Point, Tioga, Sanger, Bonham, Trenton, Durant, Lake Texoma, and many surrounding North Texas communities.

Let's Build Your Fence the Right Way
If you're planning a new fence, replacing an old one, or simply have questions about the best options for your property, I'd be happy to help.

When you call Mike Downs Fencing, you'll talk directly with me. When your project begins, I'll be the one building it. And when it's finished, you'll know exactly who stood behind every post, every board, and every gate.
That's the way I've done business for more than 25 years.
And I wouldn't have it any other way.

Mike Downs Fencing
✔ Mike Personally Builds Every Fence
✔ Never Uses Subcontractors
✔ 25+ Years of Hands-On Experience
✔ Veteran Owned & Operated
✔ Genuine Western Red Cedar
✔ Heavy-Duty Steel Posts
✔ Free Estimates
✔ Financing Available

www.fencingplusmore.com
903-814-8118