An Introduction to Estate Railings and Gates

Metal estate fencing is made of wide-set horizontal bars, with vertical bars between each panel for stability, creating a traditional Victorian look that is frequently used on country estates, public parks and more recently, new build housing estates. They are available as traditional loose components for self-assembly using fixing pins, or as a fully welded unit panel.

Types of estate fencing

There are two types of metal estate fencing available, known to us as Welded Unit and Traditional estate rail. These two products have some key differences that are worth knowing about when specifying estate rail on your project.

Welded Unit Estate Rail

• Fully welded panel, no self-assembly required
• Installed into concrete foundations
• Can be polyester powder coated for low maintenance – this also combines with the galvanised finish to increase anti-corrosion properties of the metalwork

Traditional Estate Rail

• Supplied in loose components
• Self-assembly on site using fixing pins
• Can not be polyester powder coated – the powder coating could potentially get scratched while the loose components are being put together.

Benefits of estate railings

Metal estate fencing has large gaps between bars so the risk of getting stuck between the fence railings is low. This also allows for animals to pass through while acting as a barrier for larger wildlife, like cattle and deer. More recently, they are becoming an increasingly popular choice on new build housing developments.

Thanks to their simple design, they can easily look good in many different types of surroundings. Estate fencing also provides a prestigious touch to wherever it is installed thanks to its history of typically being installed around high-end estates.

Both products have their benefits – if your project is running on a tight budget, traditional loose component estate rail is a much more cost-effective option as there are no labour or powder coating costs. However, this is a compromise as you need to assemble the materials yourself and paint them yourself if required. It is also worth noting that a wet paint finish will not last as long as polyester powder coating and will have to be repainted after some time.

If appearance is at the forefront of your project, welded unit estate rail may be the choice for you. While being the higher cost option, they will be delivered to site fully welded and ready to install. Unlike the traditional estate rail, they can be polyester powder coated in a RAL colour of your choice. The quality of this finish is far better than wet paint and can last in excess of up to 20 years with minimal maintenance.

Estate railings from Alpha Rail

Alpha Rail’s full-service approach means that you will be supported through every step of the project. From initial enquiry to project completion, you can rely on our ability to consult and offer technical advice.

As specialists in bespoke metalwork for almost 40 years, we understand that site conditions can differ greatly. Whether it is curves, gradients, or unconventional fixing methods, Alpha Rail is able to take on these challenges where others may not be able to.

Our surveyors are able to carry out in-depth site surveys using industry leading equipment and working with our skilled CAD technicians and in-house fabrication team, we are able to match your exact requirements.

Do you have an upcoming project that requires estate railings or other metalwork products? Contact us today to discuss with our sales team, who will be able to offer advice and prepare a quotation based on your requirements. You can reach us via email at websales@alpharail.co.uk or give us a call on 01623 750214.