What is Aluminum Fencing, and Why is it Perfect for Fencing?
We know aluminum fencing is attractive, but what else does it have going for it? Here, we cover what aluminum is and what makes it such a great option for your fencing project. Most commonly known for its use in soda cans, aluminum is a diverse light silvery-gray metal that can be morphed into a whole host of items besides the container for your favorite beverage. In this article we’ll be discovering what aluminum actually is, its unique properties, and why it may just be the perfect solution for your properties fencing needs.
Getting to Know Aluminum
Aluminum, or aluminium in other countries, is a chemical element in the boron family on the Periodic Table of elements. Not only reserved for canned goods, aluminum is a lightweight, malleable metal also used in foils, kitchen utensils, aeroplane parts, and, of course, fencing. Proudly sitting as the Earth’s most abundant metal and coming in strong as the third most extensive element overall, aluminum is prized by many industries for its unique properties. The most widely used metal after steel, one of the key factors that sets aluminum apart from other metals is its lightness; compared to steel, aluminum is 2.5 times less dense, so tip your hat to aluminum next time you easily lift a soda can to your lips!
Why Both Manufacturers and Customers Love Aluminum
Aside from how light it is, there are a multitude more reasons why aluminum is at the top of the list for manufacturers and consumers alike, with demand for this silvery metal at around 29 million tons each year – that’s well over 4 million elephants’ worth! Easily recyclable, and with no difference between ‘virgin’ (aka brand new), and recycled versions, aluminum can be used time and time again without compromising on its quality. One of the most important aspects of aluminum to know, particularly in regards to its many outdoor applications, such as fencing, is that it is corrosion resistant. This means that it is very hard to rust, and will last decades whilst still looking as fresh as the day it was installed. Aluminum is also soft and malleable, allowing itself to be transformed into stylish yet practical designs that will last the test of time.
The Perfect Metal for Fencing
There are so many reasons to fall in love with aluminum fencing over its more traditional counterparts such as wrought iron or steel, with one of the most important considerations for customers being price. The malleability of aluminum means that it can perfectly replicate the look of traditional metals, but at a fraction of the cost. A standard 3-foot aluminum gate can set you back as little as around $195.00, whereas the same sized gate in wrought iron would cost you well over $295.00 dollars. As previously mentioned, aluminum is near impervious to rust, however, for the more expensive steel or wrought iron, rust is one of the metals key pitfalls. To protect an iron or steel fence, it has to be treated either with primer, e-coating or galvanizing, and even then, if not done properly the fencing can start to drastically deteriorate in as little as two years! Why would anyone bother with the extra financial outlay, the stress of extra treatments, and the lack of guarantee of their effectiveness over the cheaper hardier aluminum? As it remains rust free, aluminum fencing can also be used around wet areas, such as pools and ponds, not only adding a striking design feature, but also giving peace of mind, particularly if you have young children or pets. Aluminum’s lightness also amazingly means not only is it simple and affordable to ship, but it can be installed with ease by property owners themselves, compared to cumbersome steel fencing, which almost always requires a professional, of course at an extra cost. Homeowners can transform an entire yard into a stylish space, adding value and curb appeal in as little as a weekend with minimal tools and the whole family can be involved too. Best of all, with this clear concise guide, the installation process can become an absolute breeze.
The Most Affordable Low Maintenance Fencing Option
So, what is aluminum fencing, and why is it perfect for fencing? As you can see, there are so many reasons to love aluminum fencing. One of the most significant reasons business and homeowners turn to this type of fencing is due to its low maintenance practicality. If you are going to have fencing put up, the last thing you want to do is turn around and just have to re-do it within a year or two. Not only is that a lot of work to put on your shoulders, but it can also be pretty pricey. Aluminum fencing is an option that is low maintenance, so you never have to worry about having to dish out cash to fix it or replace it.
Aluminum fencing offers an aesthetic appeal that lasts without requiring extensive upkeep. Wood fences, while very popular and aesthetically pleasing, come with a considerable amount of maintenance. You have to continually worry about the wood rotting and having to refinish or paint it. With aluminum fencing, you never have to worry about either of those issues. You install your aluminum fence and enjoy its simplistic low maintenance beauty.
Offers Versatile Fencing for all Homeowners
Another unique feature of aluminum fencing is how versatile it can be for business and homeowners. If you’re installing fencing, odds are you care most about its functionality. However, most homeowners have begun to prefer fencing options that function efficiently while also being aesthetically pleasing.
Aluminum fence is among the most highly efficient fencing options, if not the most efficient. It is outstandingly durable and gives homeowners peace of mind when they have this fencing installed. For those homeowners who are interested in both functionality and aesthetics, aluminum fencing wins out again. If you want a fence to match your business or home’s look and feel, this is also the best option for you. Aluminum fencing comes in a wide variety of colors and styles. With so many options to choose from, business and homeowners have no trouble finding something to match their exterior.
For example, if you have a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can select natural fencing shades like taupe or light browns that will expertly complement your home’s aesthetic. If you have a more modern home, you can always select the classic white and black shades to compliment your home. No matter what type of aesthetic you are trying to create, aluminum fencing will have the perfect option for you.
The Resilient Fencing Your Home or Business Needs
As previously mentioned, aluminum fencing can hold up its own, but to fully appreciate that, you have to understand just how resilient this fencing option is. Aluminum is not chemically susceptible to harsh weather. Unlike iron fences or steel, aluminum will never rust. Also, unlike wood, it will never rot. It will stand firm even during the most problematic elements Mother Nature has to throw your way – hail, wind, ice, and snow. It does not matter where you live or what type of climate you endure, the aluminum fencing will stand strong through it all. It will never wear, tear, dent, or become damaged. When you purchase aluminum fencing, you know you are going to be getting fencing that can outlast anything. Homeowners love this feature because it means you will be less likely to have to replace the fencing after harsh weather or natural disasters.
A Nod to the Environment
As it can be recycled a limitless amount of times without compromising on its quality, an aluminum fence makes a great option not only for the financially savvy, but also the eco-conscious too. Its rust-free qualities mean it needs no maintenance, so no coating with nasty chemicals is required. As also mentioned, aluminum is abundant. Comprising over 8% of the world’s crust, and so easily reused, it can be comfortably considered as a sustainable resource. Finally, if you do want to remove your fence, maybe to change things up with another fabulous design, removal is not only easy, but recycling is too!
Final Thoughts
So, if you’ve been wondering what aluminum fencing is and why is it perfect for fencing, we hope you now have the answers you need to make the best decision. In a world that is growing ever more eco-aware and with the cost of living growing higher and higher each year, an aluminum fence represents a sensible investment for the security and style of your property. Cheaper, with no maintenance and easy install, an aluminum fence is a superior choice over heavy, pricey, and hard to maintain steel or wrought iron. Whether you’re looking to transform your yard, protect your property, or add safety to your poolside, think smart, and think aluminum fencing.