If you are searching for something to jazz up your log home, consider adding some wrought iron and cast iron items for a rustic and creative look. Popular wrought iron items include railings, gates, fences, and fireplace tools. Common cast iron items include skillets, griddles, waffle irons, and door accessories.

Wrought iron and cast iron products are easily found online and in retail stores. Hundreds of different styles are available to dress up rooms, shelves, and walls in a log home. We commonly think of them in black but other colors are available.

Wrought Iron Versus Cast Iron

Products made from wrought iron and cast iron add a historical and rustic touch to log homes, especially those painted black. These products have been around a long time from the days when blacksmiths made them to today’s factory-made items. Iron, in terms of mass, is the most common element on earth. Wrought iron and cast iron are made from virtually pure iron but they are not the same, and here’s why:

Wrought Iron – This iron product consists of 98%-99% of iron and the balance is slag. Slag is a byproduct of smelting iron that consists of phosphorus, silicon, and sulfur. Wrought iron is made by heating, bending, and working it multiple times with a hammer. This process is repeated as many times as necessary to create products. Wrought iron is stronger than cast iron because each time it is heated and worked it becomes stronger.

Cast Iron – Cast iron is created by pouring molten iron into molds or forms that become various products when the metal hardens. Cast iron items are easier to produce than wrought iron because there is less time and effort involved. Cast iron is harder than wrought iron and is better able to resist deformation under pressure or stress.

Wrought Iron Items For Log Homes Are Amazing

Wrought iron can be used in combination with beautiful wood for decorative shelves. It is also used to create a Western-inspired look, such as tree branch-like railings. Other uses include:

Light fixtures Coat racks Napkin rings
Coat and hat hooks Table legs Picture frames
Railings Art horseshoes Shelf brackets
Gates and fences Log holders Blanket ladders
Straps for roof trusses Bookshelves Towel ladders
Fireplace tools Book ends Hinges

Do a little research and you will see many more items for home or office use. The most popular color for wrought iron is black although others are available.

“If you are searching for something to jazz up your log home, consider adding some wrought iron and cast iron items for a rustic and sturdy look.”

Cast Iron Items For Log Homes Are Popular

Cast iron products vary from wrought iron in several ways. Cast iron is a durable and efficient material for household items some of which are familiar to us. Its many uses are:

Frying pans Crepe makers Door latches
Dutch ovens Deep fryers Door locks
Griddles Woks Door hinges
Waffle irons Tetsubin Door handles
Flattop grills Potjies English hardware
Panini presses Karahi Faux hinges

Wrought iron products are typically more expensive than cast iron products. The production processes are more labor-intensive, requiring skilled blacksmithing to create each piece. As you can see from the lists of products for both types of iron, they make practical and decorative additions to any log home.

Enameled Versus Unfinished Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron skillets or frying pans are poured, shaped, and cast from molten iron that hardens to shape. They are incredibly durable and can last for generations. Cast iron cookware is typically available in enameled cast iron and unfinished cast iron.Cast iron skillets or frying pans are poured, shaped, and cast from molten iron that hardens to shape. They are incredibly durable and can last for generations. Cast iron cookware is typically available in enameled cast iron and unfinished cast iron.

Enameled cast iron is coated with a layer of enamel, ground porcelain or glass fused to the surface. A smooth, non-porous, non-reactive cooking surface is formed from the process. It is easier to cook with and care for. Unfinished cast iron lacks a protective coating and requires regular seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties. Cast iron skillets are perfect companions for log homes and cabins.

Cooking With Cast Iron

For those who love cooking, here are some ways to use cast iron cookware. You may already be enjoying some of these food products.

  • Frying – Cast iron is a good choice for frying a variety of foods, such as meat and potatoes
  • Cornbread – Cast iron retains heat well and cornbread baked in a cast iron skillet has a crispy crust and soft interior
  • Shakshuka – This cookware is often used to make shakshuka, which is a spicy egg bake and is relatively quick to prepare
  • High Heat – Cast iron is ideal for cooking with high heat for searing, browning, and sautéing
  • Oven Cooking – This type of cookware is good for baking, braising, and roasting

Wrought iron and cast iron products continue to be popular. We hope this article has been helpful for selecting some useful and decorative items for your house or cabin.

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