What is the Advantage and Disadvantage of metal aluminum fence

Last Updated: May 14,

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Like any major home investment, purchasing fencing requires a fair amount of research. Before you take the plunge, think about the factors that are important to you. Are you looking for protective security fencing or something more decorative? Are you interested in investing in something timelessly stylish, or is the price tag the most important factor? Finally, you'll want to weigh the pros and cons of your chosen fencing material. Take, for example, aluminum fencing. Aluminum fencing is popular for its appearance (which mimics that of wrought iron) and its durable, lightweight build (which mimics steel). Interested in learning more about this innovative fencing material? Let's start by weighing the pros and cons of aluminum fencing.

Pros and Cons of Aluminum Fencing

Pro: Low-Maintenance

Aluminum fencing is a great choice for the homeowner who wants lasting aesthetic appeal with very little upkeep. Unlike wood, aluminum fences never require painting or refinishing. Aluminum fencing also won't rust, unlike materials like chain-link or wrought iron. Aluminum fences are also famously easy to clean. Just hose your fencing off once a month or so to clean off any lingering dust or debris. If you find tough spots that can't be hosed off, you'll want to give your fencing a deeper clean, especially at the end of a snowy winter or a stormy summer. Either way, aluminum fencing is virtually maintenance-free.

Pro: Inexpensive

Aluminum fencing is cheaper than materials like steel or wrought iron. Unlike wood, which requires regular repair and replacement, aluminum stands the test of time. And while aluminum fencing costs more than wood fencing, its low-maintenance nature may save you money in the long run. Think about it this way: You won't have to pay for professional cleaning or repair, and you can also install aluminum fencing yourself without having to pay a professional.

Pro: Versatile and Decorative

When it comes to fencing, function is likely your highest priority. However, you shouldn't have to sacrifice style for durability. One of aluminum fencing's biggest perks is its versatility. Most aluminum fencing lines are available in a wide variety of colors and styles to complement your home's exterior. For example, natural shades like brown or beige might complement homes with exteriors like adobe or stone. Classic white or black fencing is a great accent for Georgian or Victorian architecture. And if you can't find a fencing option you like, aluminum posts and balusters are lightweight and flexible enough to be molded into a custom design for you.

Pro: Easy to Install

Aluminum fences work great on any land ' flat or sloped ' without creating unsightly gaps in the fencing. And, as mentioned above, the fencing's malleable quality means it can be adjusted to different heights to match local standards and building codes. Aluminum's lightweight, flexible nature makes it easy and convenient to work with. Confident do-it-yourself homeowners can install the fencing over the course of a weekend, but professional installation is also relatively fast and affordable.

Pro: Environmentally Friendly

If you're concerned about your fence's environmental impact, look no further than aluminum fencing. First, most aluminum fence products are made from recycled aluminum, which reduces waste. Additionally, when you eventually replace your fence a few decades down the line, it can be recycled again, reducing the amount of landfill waste. These fences also require little energy to produce, making them a great option for your eco-friendly oasis.

Con: Less Privacy

Keep in mind that aluminum fencing will provide an attractive, low-maintenance barrier, but it doesn't conceal much at all. So if it's privacy you're after, you may want to think twice before purchasing aluminum fencing.

Con: Not Ideal for Security Purposes

If you're looking for a security fence, aluminum fencing likely won't cut it. Aluminum is more lightweight and less durable than materials like steel. However, this may only be a factor if you are worried about large animals breaking in or out ' or the potential for intruders.

Pro: Lasts a Lifetime

Aluminum is one of the most weather-resistant materials available today, standing up to rain, hail, snow, ice, and UV rays. It resists corrosion, rust, decay, insect infestation, and more. Many manufacturers also offer a lifetime limited warranty for their aluminum fencing products because they withstand wear and tear so well, outlasting wood, steel, chain-link, and wrought iron fencing. That durability ' combined with an attractive warranty ' means you'll get the most bang for your buck in the years to come.

Shop Aluminum Fencing

The MMC Fencing & Railing online store offers several styles from the top aluminum fencing brands. Feel free to browse the most popular types of aluminum fencing, including the CourtYard® Aluminum Fence. CourtYard fencing offers unmatched elegance and beauty with hidden picket fastener systems and no unsightly screws. We also offer several fencing options in the Regis® collection, including the Series Ornamental Aluminum Fencing system. (Check out the Regis .) Either of these options works as a backyard fence system or a design element for landscaping.

Aluminum fencing is durable, low-maintenance, affordable, and extremely attractive. Despite its cons ' the lack of privacy, for example ' aluminum fencing is an excellent asset to any home or business exterior. Still shopping around for fencing material? You might want to read our list of the pros and cons of vinyl fencing, as vinyl fencing offers similar benefits. Our experts are also available to help you choose the best fencing for your home.

Choosing between aluminum vs steel fence is an important decision. Both are excellent options for selecting a fencing material for design, durability, and minimum maintenance.

Both aluminum and steel fences are virtually maintenance-free, meaning you'll spend more time enjoying the yard ' not working in it. And, at a fraction of the cost of wrought iron, aluminum and steel fencing provide style and security without breaking the bank.

That said, there are some essential differences between steel and aluminum fences to consider when deciding on the suitable fence material for your home. This guide discusses the three top things to consider when choosing an aluminum vs. steel fence.

Table of Contents

• Durability
• Style
• Cost
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Are Aluminum Fences Strong?
• Will an Aluminum Fence Rust?
• Is Aluminum Fencing Expensive?
• Is Aluminum or Steel Fence Better?
• Whether Aluminum or Steel, Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions Is Your Best Choice

1) Aluminum vs Steel ' Durability

Compared to traditional fencing materials like wood and chain link, aluminum and steel offer exceptional durability.

Both are made to last. Aluminum, in particular, is impervious to the elements and will not corrode or rust. Steel can rust, but it is well-protected and virtually maintenance-free when treated with a protective coating (such as that found on Ameristar ornamental steel fencing).

If security is a top priority (or you have particularly 'adventurous' kids or pets), you may be better served with a steel fence. Unlike aluminum, a high-strength material, steel fences are manufactured using a welded construction process, reinforcing an already solid material.

You may also want to use more durable materials like aluminum or steel when building protective pool fencing.

2) Aluminum vs Steel ' The Style

Both aluminum and ornamental steel fences come in various styles, but it's worth noting that aluminum fencing offers a broader range of color options.

If complementing the style and color of your home is most important to you, consider an aluminum fence. Elite Ornamental Aluminum Fencing, for example, is available in seven standard colors ' and custom colors can be created, as well. Steel fences are typically offered in fewer colors (black and bronze are standard).

Keep in mind that no matter which material you choose, various styling options and accessories are available for steel and aluminum fences. From pressed pear pickets to ball caps, tri, and quad finials to arched loops, steel and aluminum can bring all the sophistication and elegance of wrought iron to your home ' without all the cost and maintenance.

3) Aluminum vs Steel ' The Cost

What about aluminum vs. steel fence cost?

Compared to expensive wrought iron fences, maintenance-intensive options like wood, aluminum, and steel fences offer incredible value. But steel is a bit more costly than aluminum due to its more resilient welded construction.

However, keep in mind that extra money spent up-front on either a steel or aluminum fence will doubtlessly save significant costs over time.

The ornamental steel and aluminum fences available from Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions feature protective coatings designed to minimize maintenance and protect your investment from the elements.

Minimum maintenance, along with aesthetic appeal, can additionally increase the resale value of your home, as well, significantly upping the long-term return on your investment in an aluminum or steel fence.

Protecting your investment is essential, which is why reputable manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties on their fences. Make sure when shopping for a fence you consider this important factor, as well.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Woda.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are just a few of the most frequently asked questions homeowners have when deciding whether to purchase aluminum vs. steel fences.

Are Aluminum Fences Strong?

They are stronger than most people might think.

While not as strong as steel or wrought iron fencing, residential-grade aluminum fence rails can usually support about 350 lbs. of pressure.

And if you're using industrial-grade fence models, you can expect them to stand up to even higher pressure ratings.

Will an Aluminum Fence Rust?

Aluminum fencing will not rust, making it an excellent maintenance-free fencing option.

Since it does not contain iron or steel, it doesn't react to oxygen or water to the same degree as other metal fencing.

However, it should be noted that quality iron and steel fencing is usually coated with a protective material to prevent rusting and maintain the fence's structural integrity.

Is Aluminum Fencing Expensive?

Aluminum fencing does tend to cost a bit more than other fence types.

According to HomeAdvisor, aluminum fences cost about $26 per linear foot. Compare that to vinyl ($17/sq ft) and wood ($12/sq ft).

That being said, there is a lot more to consider here than simple upfront costs.

For instance, aluminum fencing upkeep is significantly less costly than traditional wood fencing. With wood, you're cleaning, scraping, and repainting your fence every three years if you want to keep it in good shape.

On top of that, a well-built wood fence will typically last about 15 years.

On the other hand, an aluminum fence requires little to no maintenance throughout its lifetime. Typically, spraying it down with the hose every once in a while is all it takes to keep it clean.

Plus, you can expect a solid aluminum fence to last anywhere from 30 to 40 years'at least 2X as long as wood.

As you can see, paying a bit more upfront for an aluminum fence is the wiser financial choice in the long run.

For a more detailed breakdown of the expenses, be sure to check out our guide to aluminum fence costs.

Aluminum vs Steel Fence ' Which is Better?

So, steel or aluminum fence'which is better?

Simply put, it depends on what you're looking for in a fence.

When it comes to durability, a steel fence can take more of a beating than an aluminum fence, thanks to its welded construction process.

However, aluminum resists oxidation and will not succumb to rust like steel (unless it's coated with protective materials).

For style, aluminum offers more colors to choose from. This allows for more opportunities to match home styles and surrounding décor. Beyond that, custom colors can be created in some instances.

On the other hand, steel tends to only be available in a few shades.

Finally, aluminum beats out steel in terms of cost, but not much.

So, when comparing aluminum vs. steel fencing, it depends on which of these factors is more important to you.

Whether Aluminum or Steel, Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions Is Your Best Choice

Need help deciding whether an aluminum or ornamental steel fence is suitable for you? Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions has been the trusted St. Louis aluminum fence installers, serving the entire St. Louis area since .

Family-based aluminum fence installers in St. Louis with decades in the industry, we offer the best in American-made fencing in the St. Louis area as a fencing contractor.

And if you are weighing the pros and cons of purchasing an aluminum vs. steel fence, we can help.

For more information on aluminum and steel fencing options from Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions, visit our showroom or request a free, full-service estimate.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit metal aluminum fence.

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