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What Is the Difference Between Steel, Wrought Iron and Cast Iron?
Wrought iron is worked and bent by hand, cast iron is poured into molds, and steel is iron with a small amount of carbon added, which makes it stronger and more flexible than either. True wrought iron hasn’t been made in volume for about 100 years. The “wrought iron” balusters sold today, including ours, are low-carbon steel. Wrought iron is just the name the stair industry has always used for decorative metalwork.
Steel vs. Wrought Iron vs. Cast Iron
| Steel | Wrought iron | Cast iron | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it’s made | Iron with a little carbon, rolled and formed | Iron heated and worked by hand | Molten iron poured into a mold |
| Strength | Strongest | Strong, tough | Hard but brittle |
| Under force | Bends | Bends | Can crack or snap |
| Made today? | Yes. What railings use now | Rarely, for restoration | Yes, for some decorative castings |
| Cost | Lowest | Highest | Middle |
Which Is Best for a Stair Railing?
Steel. It’s strong, it bends instead of snapping, and it can be formed into any style, from plain bars to hammered, twisted and scrolled designs. That’s why steel is what nearly every iron baluster is made from today. Ours are low-carbon steel, finished with a powder coat or faux finish. See all our iron balusters.
When Did Steel Replace Wrought Iron?
Steel started replacing wrought iron in the late 1800s, once new processes made it cheap to produce in large amounts. By the early 1900s, steel had taken over for most building work, and wrought iron became a specialty material. The name stuck, though, so decorative steel railings are still called wrought iron.
Does It Matter for Your Stairs?
Not really. What matters is the style, the finish and how well the balusters are installed. For style and finish help, see the best colors for iron railings and solid vs. hollow balusters.
Steel vs. Iron FAQ
Is wrought iron better than steel?
For railings, no. Steel is stronger and cheaper, which is why it replaced wrought iron. Today’s “wrought iron” balusters are steel.
Which railing is best, steel or iron?
Steel. Modern iron balusters are made from steel because it’s strong, bends instead of breaking, and costs less.
What is the difference between cast iron and wrought iron?
Cast iron is poured into molds and is brittle. Wrought iron is worked by hand and bends instead of breaking.
Are iron balusters really iron?
Most are low-carbon steel. “Wrought iron” is the traditional name for decorative metal railings.
