Gate construction is a big one to watch out for too.  Unlike a fence panel that is fixed in place and does not move, the gates need to be able to support the weight of the entire leaf as well as any leverage force pressures exerted on them.  This is where a proper gate frame comes into play.  Many companies will simply weld two posts to the end of a fence section and call it a gate.  Functional, but not really all that strong.  You will sometimes see cross-bracing on wider gates as a band-aid to poor construction as well.  The correct way to make a gate is with a fully boxed and welded gate frame like our Stronghold Iron line.  That makes a solid, 3-sided frame that will withstand way more pressure and weight without cracking or deforming.  Here is an image showing the U-frame on one of our gates.

To address this issue, homeowners can opt for aluminum windows with thermal breaks or install double or triple-pane glass to improve insulation. Additionally, adding curtains or blinds to aluminum windows can help to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency.

What factors contribute to the high cost of wrought iron?