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What is the Difference Between Cast Iron and Regular Iron?

Regular iron and cast iron are not so different as they are both the same material. The only difference is in some of the properties they possess and the way the metal is shaped. These subtle, yet drastic differences actually mean that each metal type has different uses and applications.

Iron is one of the most widely used metals and is found within the earth’s crust. Here it is sourced from iron ore mines, and the core iron ore metal is then smelted into various types of metals. How the metal is smelted depends on the metal that you want. Each type of iron is manufactured differently and thus the properties and applications of each iron type can differ immensely, such as the differences between cast iron and regular iron.

Regular Iron

So what is regular iron? Regular iron is also known as wrought iron, and it is traditionally smelted at a low temperature for a long period of time. This produces a spongey substance known as bloom. The smelting process is to rid the metal of the impurities, and then the metal is worked on with tools to shape it. The fact that the metal is worked on gives it its name ‘wrought iron’.

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The resultant wrought iron actually has a very small carbon content, less than 1% carbon. It is therefore, incredibly strong and resistant to corrosion. Due to the purity of wrought iron, this metal is able to withstand harsh weather by not rusting.

Cast Iron

This is produced using a similar method. However instead of smelting the metal at a low temperature for a long period of time, this iron is smelted at an incredibly high temperature for a short period of time. This creates a liquid state as a result of the high temperature smelting. As a result, the metal becomes drenched with carbon because of the furnace fuel – approximately 5% compared to the relatively little carbon found in wrought iron.

The liquid metal is then poured into casts to mould the metal into the required shape, as opposed to being hammered into shape. The fact that the metal is poured into casts gives it the name ‘cast iron’. Also because cast iron isn’t treated for a sustained period of time, like that of wrought iron, it isn’t as pure.

Finally the high carbon content actually makes this metal much more rigid and, even at hot temperatures, which is just as well because it is often used for cooking. However because it isn’t as pure, it can rust much easier compared to wrought iron and as a result it is often known as ‘brittle iron’.

When it comes to the uses of wrought and cast iron, there are marked differences. Mainly this is to do with the fact that cast can be shaped using moulds and so can be moulded into any shape that is needed. This therefore makes it a very useful metal for cookware and outdoor appliances. Whereas wrought iron is often used for shapes that are simple and easy to produce such as drains or garden gates.  

Wrought Iron Railings

The difference between cast and wrought iron. The many uses of wrought iron in furniture and in accent and decorating pieces.

The difference between wrought iron and cast iron is the way they are made in the first place. Wrought iron is hammered iron, while cast iron is iron that is melted and then poured into a cast and cooled. Because of the way wrought iron is a solid piece that is hammered into shape, it is inherently much stronger than cast iron. It is extensively used for furniture and other weight bearing applications for this reason. In addition, because it can be hammered into shapes, it is often used for decorative items.

The use of wrought iron for furniture is seen in beds, outdoor furniture, park benches and bar stools. As you can see, these types of structures need straight to the legs to withstand the weight of people, and legs made of wrought iron will be strong enough for hits purpose. Besides the strength, the attraction of wrought iron is that these legs can be formed into lovely designs that add to the beauty of the piece. This kind of furniture will give a room a county look, but you can be sure the furniture will be strong and sturdy. The most common types of wrought iron furniture will be either black or dark grey, and frequently, wood might be incorporated into the design. If you want the beauty of your wrought iron furniture to be displayed at its best, keep the walls of hate room light and bright.

Wrought iron is used most extensively for all kinds of decorations because of the intricate designs that can be achieved. Lovely entrance gates, that add to the look of a home, while withstanding any kind of weather, is one of the most popular uses. Garden structures, such as a lattice is another popular use. Plants such as ivy or roses can grow easily on the metal, weaving in and out of the design, while the structure remains strong in the out of doors through any sort of weather. You will also see wrought iron candle sconces and curtain rods, which add a contract to lighter walls or curtains.

Is Wrought Iron Decor or Cast Iron Better for Your Home?

If you were asked if you which you would prefer between wrought iron or cast iron as wall art – would you know the answer? Would know the difference enough to make a choice? Many people are unaware of the differences and perhaps even dismiss the fact that there could be a difference. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. There is a large group of homeowners and decorators that are in that category. Once we know the difference you will know right away just by looking at a piece of iron art whether it is wrought iron or cast iron. At first you may think that of iron work as a more modern style of art. In a lot of cases it is quite the opposite. You will find out that iron work is extremely versatile and anyone can use wrought iron or cast iron pieces in their home.

Though both are have amazing results when added to your home décor and both are able to bring dimension into your home, there is a difference.

Cast iron is just that – iron set in a cast or mold. This allows the iron to take on the intricate designs and details the artist intends for you to see. This also lets you pick a cast iron piece more directed towards the design of a room. For example, if you have a child’s room decorated in in a western style, it would be much easier to find a horse or cowboy hat and lasso. This adds to more of the defining quality in decorating that many look for. Cast iron is also used for many gates, fencing and even furniture in homes and businesses.

Wrought iron is twisted and formed with tools. The winding metal and different shapes and sizes helps you bring elegance and style to any sized room. Many decorators use wrought iron pieces in place of an oil paintinsg or canvas wall art to add variety to the room. A large empty space on a wall that everyone sees would be well suited for a larger piece of wrought iron art. Because you are still able to see the wall color through the wrought iron piece, you are able to use something slightly larger than if you were to choose a painting. The wall color peeking through keeps the piece from becoming to overwhelming.

With both cast iron and wrought iron, you will be more likely to find something for that awkward space, say a smaller space from a corner to a window or a high ceiling and wall in a stairwell. There are many different sizes and shapes as well. Choosing either cast or wrought iron decor will definitely add to your home décor and add that little extra to draw attention to a room or furniture piece.

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