Wrought iron railings are decorative pieces in staircases, porches, and balcony railings. Their installation typically costs an average of $2,600, ranging from $700 to $4,600.
Professionals specializing in wrought iron meticulously sculpt the material, which gives them a unique look that matches their price tag.
To have a better understanding of the costs associated with the installation of wrought iron railings, here is an in-depth explanation of the factors that affect its overall cost.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Wrought Iron Railings
Type
1. Plain Black Wrought Iron
Plain black wrought iron is the most budget-friendly choice since the cost is between $50 and $70 per linear foot.
This type of wrought iron is already available in standard sizes, such as 10 feet by 40 inches, for a relatively easy installation.
This cost-effective material, however, is only suitable for indoor installation because it’s susceptible to rust when exposed to extreme weather conditions.
2. Galvanized Wrought Iron
The cost for pre-galvanized metal ranges from $60 to $90 per linear foot.
This material is the best choice for outdoor use because the galvanization adds a protective coating against rust. This is very helpful, especially for areas with extreme weather.
This quality minimizes the need for maintenance while maximizing the overall durability. Just keep in mind that the galvanized metal can get rusty if the coating gets scratched, so it must be repaired quickly.
3. Ornamental Wrought Iron: Decorative or ornamental wrought iron railings come with a higher price tag between $60 and $120 per linear foot.
Pre-formed designs are available on the low end of the price range, and you can customize the designs according to your preference on the upper end.
Choosing this option comes with a higher expense, but they can transform any staircase into a breathtaking masterpiece.
Components
- Custom Balusters or Spindles: Balusters, also known as spindles, guard the open side of the railings. They also add durability and style since you can customize their appearance based on your preferences.
With balusters, people can strongly grab onto the handrails as they move up and down the stairs.
Replacing them typically costs between $260 and $2,000. That’s $130 to $1,600 per spindle and $130 to $400 for labor.
- Handrails: Handrails are generally installed for safety in staircases, but they can also add a visual appeal to them.
There are two different ways of mounting the handrails. You may attach them directly to nearby walls or they can be affixed to two posts.
Custom handrail prices vary based on material and size, with a standard 25-foot handrail costing at least $2,000.
- Paint: If you prefer a different color than plain black iron, you can use paint.
If you want a professional to do the job, the labor costs approximately $6 to $10 per linear foot of painted railing. For two 10-foot railings, this totals between $120 and $200 for most contractors.
If you want to do the job on your own, the paint costs around $30 to $40 for the same surface area. Just keep in mind that not all paints withstand outdoor conditions well and some even make the metal even more susceptible to rusting.
Labor
The installation labor for a wrought iron railing that spans 10 to 30 feet typically ranges from $300 to $1,000. Some staircase installers charge by the hour, ranging from $60 to $100 per hour, and this work usually requires 5 to 10 hours.
For larger remodeling projects, you may opt to hire a general contractor who charges $50 to $100 per hour. On the other hand, a handyman can be hired for smaller-scale projects and they charge around $50 to $80 per hour.
Additional Costs That May Be Incurred
Some other factors should also be taken into account when estimating the cost of wrought iron railings.
Building Permits
Your local authority might require a building permit if you install a new exterior railing.
The price of this permit ranges between $30 and $120, but you won’t need it for minor repairs or parts replacement. A professional can handle this, so be sure to discuss this with your contractor.
Location and Accessibility
If it’s difficult to access the railing or the working space is tight, it might take a lot longer for the contractor to finish the job and the charges may increase. So, ask him to visit the property first to ensure that the quoted rate is accurate based on his evaluation.
Old Railing Removal
If your new wrought iron railing will replace an existing one, the cost-effective way is to remove it out of the way yourself before installing the new one. Removing it and getting the new one to fit the old placement requires additional labor.
So if your contractor does this job, this cost will be factored into their hourly rate, which ranges from $65 to $100 per hour of work.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Compare multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Reach out to various contractors to obtain multiple quotes.
This not only provides a more comprehensive understanding of the prevailing market rates but also allows you to make an informed decision by choosing the most cost-effective option.
- Optimize design for budget: Collaborate closely with your chosen contractor to find a design that strikes the right balance between aesthetics and affordability.
Opting for a simpler design can substantially reduce costs while still achieving an elegant and functional wrought iron railing.
Your contractor’s expertise can guide you in making design choices that align with your budget without compromising the overall visual appeal of the railing.
- Bundle installation projects: Consider bundling multiple home improvement projects if you have several on your list. Many contractors are willing to provide discounts for bundled services.
