We take great pride in our products here at North Valley Forge, especially our bespoke electric gates. For over 30 years, we’ve been handcrafting these stunning gates using traditional blacksmithing methods passed down through generations of our artisans.
As well as being beautiful, our gates are designed to last for decades. Our expert team employs a variety of different techniques, including galvanising and powder coating, to ensure that our gates are as sturdy as they are stylish.
Curious about why galvanisation is so popular and how it benefits your wrought iron gates? Let’s dive into the process and discover how it helps your gates stand the test of time – and why we recommend it to all our customers!
What is galvanisation?
To put it simply, galvanisation is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to your gates to prevent rust and corrosion. This means your gate (or railings) will become a set-and-forget fixture in your outdoor space that, apart from the occasional wipe down with warm soapy water, doesn’t require any additional maintenance!
The primary reason we galvanise our gates and railing is to increase their lifespan. As strong as steel is, when it’s not galvanised and it’s exposed to the elements, corrosion can happen surprisingly quickly, which weakens the structural integrity of your gates. With this protective coating, on the other hand, your gates will last decades.
The galvanisation process
The most popular method of galvanisation is hot dipping, which follows the British standard EN ISO 1461. The process starts by thoroughly cleaning the steel to remove dirt and debris, creating a smooth surface for the galvanisation. Then, the steel is submerged in molten zinc at a temperature of 449 degrees Celsius.
While submerged, the molten zinc forms a protective coating around the steel. After the coating cools and dries, the gates and railings are then powder-coated. This is done using electrostatic techniques, where powder is applied and then baked in an oven. This process gives your gates and railings a deep, rich colour that enhances their appearance.
When the process is complete, the zinc coating adheres fully to the steel underneath. This creates a protective layer with no gaps for water or debris, so not only are they protected completely from the elements, they won’t rust either, so you don’t have to keep up with a yearly painting schedule for your electric gates!
Now, before we go any further it’s worth mentioning that what we refer to as wrought iron is actually mild steel. These days, very few people use traditional iron because it’s not as strong and tends to rust more easily; the name, however, has stuck! So now, wrought iron gates refer more to the style of the gate rather than the actual material it’s made from.
So, why should you choose galvanised gates and railings?
The galvanisation process effectively creates a strong barrier against harsh weather, preventing rust and corrosion, so you can enjoy your gates for decades without the need for constant maintenance. The smooth finish enhances both the durability of your gates and their aesthetic value, offering a pristine result! Plus, galvanised wrought iron gates (especially electric ones) can even boost your property’s value due to their stylish appearance and dependability as a security asset!
We’ve condensed the benefits of galvanisation into this handy list:
- Weather resistance – Protects your gates against rust, corrosion, and harsh environmental conditions.
- Low maintenance – Minimal upkeep required, saving you time and money.
- Longevity – Helps your gates last for decades, maintaining a pristine look with no deterioration.
- Enhanced kerb appeal – The sleek, modern finish galvanisation leaves complements any property style.
- Property value boost – Galvanised gates add long-term value to properties with their durability and aesthetic appeal.
- They’re an investment – A set-and-forget solution that reduces the need for any costly repairs or replacements over time.
At North Valley Forge, we have over 30 years of experience crafting gorgeous electric gates for driveways. Our skilled artisans use traditional blacksmithing techniques combined with modern engineering to create stunning and durable ironwork that stands the test of time. Every piece we create is custom-made, allowing you to choose from a wide range of designs, from classic Victorian to contemporary styles to anything your mind can conjure. If you can think of it, we can make it!
So, whether you’re looking for a striking entrance or elegant railings, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team on 01282 677 300. We’re here to help!