There are different types of pet fencing available to keep your furry family member safe:

• Chain link fencing is an affordable but not visually appealing option.

• Vinyl panel fencing is less easily damaged than wood. 

• Wood fencing is customizable but requires regular maintenance. 

• Metal iron fencing provides a sleek look but doesn’t block your pet’s view. 

• Electric fencing eliminates the need for a traditional fence, but it could be painful to your pet. 

• Picket fencing adds to your curb appeal but won’t contain most pets. 

• Brick or stone fencing stops pets from digging out of the yard but costs more.

A high-quality wrought iron fence is one of the most durable options available and can last a lifetime, or even centuries, with proper care. However, wrought iron is susceptible to rust and corrosion if not maintained.

To maximize its lifespan, regular maintenance is required. This includes:

• Cleaning the fence with soapy water every six months.

• Scrubbing away any rust or corrosion as soon as it appears.

• Applying a new coat of paint or refinishing the fence every few years to protect the metal from moisture and oxygen. The recommended frequency varies, with sources suggesting anywhere from every 1 to 10 years.

If significant rust develops, it's wise to hire a professional fence repair company to clean the rust and reseal the fence. The cost to refinish a fence is typically between $5 and $12 per square foot, a worthwhile investment to ensure its longevity.

In most cases, wrought iron fencing will cause your property value to increase. Most types of fence—but especially high-quality wrought iron fences—make your home more secure and deter burglars, which adds to property value. Fences can also help keep children and pets safe, which most homebuyers will appreciate. Wrought iron fences are also highly decorative, and while they don’t provide much privacy, they do add to your home’s curb appeal, which often leads to higher home value.

While there’s no hard evidence to support this idea, driveway gates at least provide an additional obstacle that may deter crime. After all, a would-be burglar or trespasser would have to break into the gate and the property itself. The extra work could encourage them to move onto a house without a driveway gate.