Other Materials

In addition to the more common structural materials previously outlined, there are several other materials that are occasionally used in the landscape as discussed in the following paragraphs.

Wrought Iron Wrought iron is a tough iron alloy that can be bent and welded. Wrought iron is available in long, relatively thin dimensions of various caliber sizes that are either solid or hollow. One distinct quality of wrought iron is that it can be twisted and shaped into simple or elaborate patterns, thus giving it great flexibility in use and appearance. One other aspect of wrought iron is that most features made with the material are custom handcrafted and so are relatively expensive to fabricate. Wrought iron can be used to:

• construct custom fences to the exact specifications established by the designer.

• establish a historic quality, especially when painted black.

• create simple or highly elaborate patterns that are appealing when seen sil­houetted against a simple background.

• provide a semitransparent screen that can be partially seen through.

Metal Screens Metal screens are typically constructed of wire to form panels of a given size. The thickness of the wire and the spacing varies with manufacturer, so there is a range of available screen units. Panels of metal screen are often used in the vertical plane and must be attached to another element such as a wood post or ma­sonry wall for support. Metal screen material can be employed in the landscape to:

• create a semitransparent screen that functions like a scrim to partially conceal or reveal what is on the other side.

• provide structural support for vines or other plants to climb through, thus creating a “green wall” (Figure 12—71).

• establish a foreground texture and color when placed against a flat surface.

• establish a hip urban and industrial appearance in a landscape.

Updated: October 14, 2015 — 12:22 pm