A fence plays a unique role on your property. Its practical function is to keep the property safe from intruders. However, a fence can also add to (or detract from) your property’s curb appeal.
Your goal is to choose a style of fence that looks impressive, remains durable, and functions as intended. Perhaps you’ve narrowed down your list of potential fence styles to two options: steel and aluminum.
Which is better? There’s no universal answer to that question. The following guide will cover the pros and cons of both, helping you better determine which type of fence is ideal for you and your property.
Corrosion-Resistance
Aluminum is among the most corrosion-resistant metals in common usage, according to a paper from Oregon State University. However, it’s also worth noting that certain types of steel, like galvanized and powdered steel, are also corrosion-resistant.
A steel fence without such protective coatings may rust over time without proper maintenance. Consider this if aesthetic value is a significant factor in your choice of fence style. To ensure your fence won’t succumb to rust too quickly, choose an aluminum fence or a steel fence with a coating.
Strength
Account for the type of property you’re protecting when choosing what type of fence to install. Doing so makes choosing the ideal style easier.
For example, an aluminum fence may be perfectly strong enough to protect a residential home. That said, it’s important to understand that aluminum can bend much more easily than steel can. Thus, if you’re choosing a fence for a commercial property or a property where you’ll be storing anything that could damage weaker fencing (like machinery, livestock, etc.), consider steel instead.
Appearance
You already know that aluminum and steel with a protective coating can ward off rust for years. Additionally, both aluminum and steel fences come in ornamental varieties designed to blend in with the beauty of the surrounding property.
However, ornamental aluminum fences come in a wider variety of colors than ornamental steel fences. Explore your options to find a fence that’s as attractive as the property surrounding it.
Cost
Don’t settle for poor quality in the name of saving money when investing in a new fence for your property. Buying a durable fence now will save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to spend as much money repairing your fence over the years. A high-quality durable fence also won’t need to be replaced as early as a poor-quality fence.
Still, you always need to account for your budget when making this type of purchase. Consider purchasing an aluminum fence if you’re trying to save money. Aluminum is generally less expensive than steel.
Speak With a Fencing Professional
The most important point to remember from this guide is that the right fence for one person and property isn’t necessarily the right fence for another. The best way to choose the ideal fence for your goals is to speak with an expert. They can evaluate your needs to determine what type of fence you’d be happiest with.
Learn More About Aluminum and Steel Fences
At Anderson Fence, offering both aluminum and steel fences to residential and commercial customers, we’d be happy to answer your questions on this topic. Find out more about what we can do for you by contacting us online today.
