History

• Barbed wire was invented in the 1860s.Rusty old Barbed Wire curled around old fence post image by Steve Lovegrove from Fotolia.com
  
  Wire fencing was invented in the 1860s to keep livestock rounded up. It began as barbed wire, which is still in use on cattle ranches today. Today's fencing goes beyond barbed wire and has become ornamental as well as functional. Decorative wire fencing is made in various thicknesses.
  
  

Characteristics

• Most decorative wire fencing is made from steel.fencing barriers image by marilyn barbone from Fotolia.com
  
  Most decorative wire fencing is made of steel, but some is made of copper, bronze or aluminum. In all cases, it is coated with a chemically bonded coating to prevent rust. The wire mesh is measured in "gauges," indicating how much steel is included. Most decorative wire fencing is between four and six in gauge. They are constructed in panels that are easily installed.
  
  

Components

• Wire mesh is one component of a decorative wire fence.old fence image by Alexander Zhiltsov from Fotolia.com
  
  The components of a decorative wire fence are a framework with posts, a gate of some kind, the wire mesh and fittings to hold it all together. Depending on the diameter of the wire, the components can offer strength or be more ornamental. The fence that is chosen should match the gate and should complement the house and other exterior architectural details.
  
  

Features

• Woven wire can be made into a variety of artistic shapes.toile d'araign??e image by Marc Chapelat from Fotolia.com
  
  Decorative wire fencing is versatile, strong and aesthetically appealing. It can offer a variety of openings and sizes and is available in a multitude of styles and applications. Chain link has gone beyond function and now can be purchased in woven artistic patterns that look like lace while having the durability of steel.
  
  

New Developments

• Decorative wire can be used as a fireplace screen.fireplace with iron lattice image by Nikolay Okhitin from Fotolia.com
  
  Decorative mesh is evolving from the yard to the inside of the home and office. It is now available as drapery and can be used as a divider, wall decoration, folding screen and fireplace screen. In commercial applications, it can be used as ceiling decoration and as covers for unsightly pillars. Wire is now being woven into many different patterns and serving a new variety of uses.