Is the ornamental iron at Superior Ornamental Supply actually wrought iron?

The term "wrought iron" is widely used in the trade as a general descriptor for ornamental ironwork, though most modern components are fabricated from mild steel, which is stronger and more workable than true historical wrought iron. Cast iron is used for decorative elements such as collars, base shoes, spears, finials, balls, and rosettes where complex shapes are needed. Superior Ornamental Supply's ornamental iron products follow this industry-standard use of the term.

Do ornamental iron components rust?

Steel and cast iron components will rust if left unprotected. For outdoor use, all components should be primed and painted or powder coated after assembly. Rust-inhibiting oil-based primer followed by a quality oil-based or powder coat topcoat is the standard protection method. Regular inspection and touch-up of chipped areas will maintain long-term appearance.

What finish do ornamental iron components come in?

Most ornamental iron components are supplied in raw mill finish steel for field finishing by the fabricator. Some cast iron components may have a black lacquer or wax coating. Contact us to confirm finish options for specific items. All components can be painted, powder coated, or hot-dip galvanized after fabrication.

What are ornamental iron balls used for?

Iron and steel balls serve both structural and decorative purposes in ornamental ironwork. They are commonly used as post top caps, as intermediate decorative accents on balusters and gate frames, and as focal elements in scroll arrangements and basket designs. Balls welded to picket tops also serve as safety features by eliminating sharp points.

Are the balls solid or hollow?

Both solid and hollow steel balls are available. Solid balls are heavier and weld more securely. Hollow balls are lighter, easier to drill, and preferred for larger decorative applications where weight is a concern. Contact us to confirm which types are currently stocked.

How are balls attached to pickets or posts?

Balls can be welded directly to the top of a picket or post, or purchased pre-drilled to slip over the picket top before welding. Some balls are designed to press-fit over standard picket sizes and can be secured with epoxy or a set screw without welding.

What is the purpose of an ornamental post cap?

Post caps serve two functions: they protect the hollow top of a tube post from moisture entry, which prevents internal rusting, and they provide a finished, decorative appearance to the top of a fence or railing post. Cap styles range from simple flat or pyramid tops to ball caps and ornate cast iron designs.

Do post caps need to be welded?

Caps designed for tube posts typically press-fit over the post top and can be secured with epoxy or a small tack weld. Solid post caps for round or square bar posts are generally welded in place. For outdoor applications, welding or epoxy sealing is recommended to prevent moisture from working under the cap and causing corrosion.

Cast Top with Ball 224B - Various Sizes and Prices

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From $2.25

In stock

SKU

224B

Available Options:

1) 1" Cast Top with ball. Height: 2 1/2". Width: 1 3/8". Ball diameter 1 1/8". 60 per box

2) 1 1/2" Cast Top with Ball. Height: 3". Width: 2. Ball diameter 1 15/16. 42 per box

3) 2" Cast top with ball cover. Height: 3 7/8". Width: 2 1/2". Ball diameter 1 15/16. 12/box

4) 2 1/2 Cast Top with ball cover. Height: 4 1/8". Width: 3 7/8". ball diameter 2 1/8". 8 per box

5) 3" Cast top with ball. Height: 4 1/2. Width: 3 1/2" Ball diameter 2 1/2". 2 lbs. each.

6) 4" Cast Top with Ball cover. Height: 4 7/8". Width: 4 1/2". Ball diameter 2 3/4".

7) 6 x 6 cast oist cap with ball cover. Height: 7 7/8". Width:6 3/4". Ball diameter 4".

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