Center Plates

Center Plates – Collection FAQs

1. What are center plates used for?
Center plates reinforce central joints in beams, trusses, pavilions, pergolas, and timber-frame structures. They help secure multiple members meeting at a single point while adding a bold architectural iron detail.

2. How are your center plates different from standard steel plates?
Old West Iron center plates are made from thicker steel, cut with clean precision, and hand-finished with forged-style textures. Unlike thin stamped hardware-store plates, ours provide true structural support with authentic Old World styling.

3. How do I choose the right size center plate for my project?
Measure the span and layout of the beams meeting at the center point, then select a plate large enough to cover and reinforce the joint proportionally. Larger timber structures need wider, heavier plates. Match your bolt or screw diameter to the pre-drilled holes.

4. What finish and texture options are available?
Center plates are available in matte black, natural iron, oil-rubbed bronze, and hand-distressed rustic finishes. Hammered, peened, and antique textures are applied in-house to coordinate with our straps, bolts, and other architectural hardware.

5. Are your center plates hand-forged?
Plate bodies are precision-cut for strength and accuracy, while edges, rivet details, surface distressing, and finishes are hand-applied by our American blacksmiths. This creates the rugged, historic look associated with true wrought iron.

6. What are the lead times and where are they made?
Most center plates ship within 1–10 business days, depending on size and finish. All decorative and custom-finished plates are made or finished in the USA at our Idaho forge.