Welcome to 2026! We know from working with property managers and rental owners that this is the season for upgrades. Those long-deferred upgrades can finally move from the “someday” list to this year’s priorities. And fencing is one improvement that can deliver immediate and long-term value.
How does aluminum fencing provide long-term value?
We could talk about aluminum fencing aesthetics and styles all day long. But we know that as a business person, your top priority is your bottom line.
You might be thinking that aluminum fencing is more expensive than wood or vinyl fencing. While it is true that aluminum fencing often incurs higher up-front investment, it also lasts longer and requires less maintenance.
How long does aluminum fencing last compared to other materials?
Wooden fences commonly last around 10-20 years, depending on how well you maintain them. Even then, one bad storm can tear apart your fence line. Missing a spot when staining can leave your wood susceptible to termites or rot.
Chain link fences can last around 20–30 years when properly maintained. Compare that to aluminum fencing, which can last 30–50 years or more when properly installed.
Lower Maintenance Means Lower Long-term Costs
Wood fencing often requires regular staining, sealing, board replacement, and structural repairs. Over time, those costs add up—sometimes equaling or exceeding the original installation price within 20 years.
Aluminum, by contrast, requires very little upkeep. There’s no repainting, no refinishing, and no rot or warping to address. Routine care typically amounts to occasional rinsing or cleaning.
One cost guide* estimates that the annual maintenance for wood fencing is around $0.75–$1.50 per linear foot. So for a 400-foot run, that wooden fence can cost around $300–$600 a year in maintenance.
Compare that to aluminum fencing which is around $0.05–$0.10 per linear foot. For that same 400-foot run, aluminum fence maintenance would cost around $20–$40 a year. Again, aluminum fencing really only needs routine rinsing and cleaning. Maybe some minor repairs if a panel gets loose.
*However, that is only one cost guide. Another guide estimates that wooden fence maintenance can cost up to 40% more than aluminum over their lifespan when accounting for labor.
A Tough, Durable Material for Better Security
Chain link fencing may seem secure but they can make your rental property feel like a prison. Plus, any determined teenager can easily scale a chain link fence. Or someone with ill-intent could simply purchase cable cutters, metal snippers, or any number of tools from the local hardware store.
Compare that to aluminum fencing which has heavier posts, thicker rails, and a minimum ultimate strength of 35,000 pounds per square inch (PSI). That means you would need to apply 35,000 pounds of pressure to permanently deform and deeply dent the material.
Aluminum fencing has the strength needed to manage access, guide foot traffic, and deter intrusions. It’s a strong fit for offices, multifamily communities, retail properties, amenities, pools, parking areas, and controlled entry points.
Consider the Total Cost of Ownership.
When evaluating fencing, it’s tempting to focus on upfront price alone. But for commercial and rental properties, the total cost of ownership is what really affects long-term budgets.
- Long service life (often 30–50+ years)
- Minimal maintenance and repair costs
- Reduced replacement risk
- Stable appearance without recurring refinishing
Start the Year with an Upgrade That Pays Back
A new fence may not be the flashiest capital improvement, but it’s one of the most practical. Aluminum fencing offers durability, aesthetics, security, and financial sense in a single solution—making it an ideal upgrade as you plan for the new year.