Comparing Steel And Aluminum Fencing

Steel and aluminum are two of the most popular types of metal fencing available on the market right now, and provide a number of distinct benefits based simply on the differences between the two materials. Though both an aluminum and a steel fence will provide the same function for your home, understanding the differences between the features that both these types of fences have to offer can help you choose the type of fence that best fits your needs.

Steel Fences

Steel fencing is an extremely durable fencing option that provides the epitome of a security fence to your home - it is able to withstand a great deal of physical trauma before it becomes damaged or falls over. Additionally, steel fencing closely resembles wrought iron fencing, which is significantly more expensive than steel fencing, providing a luxurious but affordable aesthetic to your home.

However, while steel fencing is less expensive than wrought iron fencing, it is still more expensive than aluminum fencing, making it the less ideal option for homeowners who have a tight budget. Furthermore, steel fences are prone to rusting, which can be a major downside in coastal areas or areas that receive a lot of salt. Lastly, steel fences are extremely heavy, which means that the installation process is long and complicated, which drives up the amount of time and money that has to be spent before your fence is finally installed. Lastly, steel fencing does not hold paint very well, which means that new coats will have to be reapplied fairly often, again increasing long term costs.

Aluminum Fences

Aluminum fencing is not designed for security, but rather for privacy or ornamentation. Aluminum is significantly less expensive than steel fencing, providing a more affordable option for all homeowners. Additionally, aluminum fencing is completely immune to corrosion, which means that it will not rust no matter how much salt it is exposed to. This can help reduce your long term repair and replacement bills, saving you money in the long run. Furthermore, aluminum fencing is much more lightweight than steel fencing, which makes it much less costly and time consuming to have installed. Additionally, aluminum fencing can be easily painted, which allows for more customization than steel fencing.

However, aluminum fencing is not as durable as steel fencing, and can become damaged much more easily than steel fencing can be by physical force. This means that over time, aluminum fencing can become dented or dinged much more easily, which means that repair and replacement bills will be increased over time in the long run. 

Talk to a professional who specializes in steel and aluminum fences for more information.


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