We all want to live in a healthier, safer, and greener world without sacrificing our modern-day comforts. In homeownership, small changes can make a significant impact on our community. Aluminum fencing is not only durable, aesthetically versatile, and resilient, it’s an environmentally responsible option.
The Sustainability of Aluminum: What makes the difference?
Aluminum fences can last upwards of 50 years! Compare that to wooden fences that only last around 20-25 years and need regular repairs. Aluminum can also be recycled indefinitely without losing its strength or quality. Manufacturers are incentivized to recycle because recycling only requires 5% of the energy needed to produce new aluminum.
So, Aluminum can uniquely conserve natural resources and keep waste out of landfills. But what can it do for your home?
Recyclability is great, but homeowners are not going to feel that effect. However, we will notice less maintenance. Aluminum fences require very little maintenance; you really just need to wash yours with mild detergent. It is already resistant to rust, mold, and mildew.
Compare that to wooden fences that require frequent painting or staining with chemicals that can harm the environment. Synthetic sealants and stains may contain toxic ingredients. However, you can use water-based stains and sealants with a low VOC content. (Volatile organic compounds.) Wood is susceptible to mold and mildew, so you will need a harsh solution like bleach to kill that growth.
Even if you use the most environmentally conscious cleaning and maintenance solutions, most wood is treated with chemical preservatives during production.
But it’s just your home. How bad can a few harsh chemicals and one wood fence be in the grand scheme of things?
You might opt for a wooden fence because your choices are just a drop in the bucket. That certainly feels true, but those drops add up. And they will have an immediate impact on your immediate environment.
Chemical preservatives and harsh cleaning chemicals leach into the soil and groundwater. Not only can they harm the plants and wildlife of your neighborhood, but they can irritate the skin of any pets or kids playing in the dirt.
You might feel like one house— one fence isn’t going to make a difference. But it’s not just one house or fence; there are entire industries perpetuating unsustainable, environmentally harmful practices.
We don’t want to contribute to those harmful practices. That’s why we’re both Green and HUBZone Certified— and proud!
Green Certified means we’re recognized by Green America, an objective, third-party nonprofit, for following environmentally friendly practices. When you buy from us, you can feel confident that our products have a minimal environmental impact.
HUBZone Certified is a designation the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides to businesses that operate and employ people in Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZones). So, we contribute to economic development and employment growth within our own communities.
Conclusion: Aluminum fences are great for the environment and your home.
Aluminum fencing is durable, long-lasting, and resilient but also aesthetically versatile. You can customize your fence to your liking. That’s not to mention that aluminum fences enhance curb appeal and property value.
If you’re looking for protection, style, safety, and a healthier environment, we have it all! Contact us to start designing your fence.