There are a few key differences between steel and aluminum fencing that you should consider before you decide which is better for your needs.
Whether you’re planning a new fence around your home or around a commercial property, you’re making a sound investment. A fence is a great way to keep loved ones and property safe and secure. It is an investment in the future of your home or building. In many cases, where wood fencing isn’t the preferred material, the choice for metal fencing comes down to steel or aluminum. While both have their pros and cons, you have to decide on one or the other before your metal fence installation project can get underway. Let’s investigate the differences between steel and aluminum fencing.
Durability
Both steel and aluminum are made to be extremely durable. Aluminum will never corrode or rust and can withstand anything that nature throws at it. Steel can rust, but most steel fencing is treated with a protective coating (like powder coating) that protects the metal from the elements without any work on your part. Steel also tends to have a higher strength than aluminum (and steel is typically welded), but both are solid and sturdy choices for most fencing needs.
Aesthetics
If aesthetics are your biggest concern, either steel or aluminum is a fine choice. Both come in a variety of styles and offer truly beautiful fences. Aluminum does typically come in more color options, but both can achieve styles that mimic the look and elegance of wrought iron.
Cost
Since steel is constructed with welded components, it is typically more expensive than aluminum. Both are very cost-effective options for fencing, however, especially when compared to something like ornamental wrought iron. When compared to wood, both tend to be more expensive up front, but over the long haul, once you add in the cost of maintenance for a wood fence, they come out about the same. It is also important to remember that a fence can help improve the value of your home, and a metal fence tends to achieve a more upscale look than a wooden one does.
Maintenance
finally, the amount of maintenance you can expect to do for either of these metal fencing options is minimal. Typically metal fencing comes with a coating that protects it from the elements, but even without the coating, aluminum will not need maintenance to keep it from rusting and weathering. Steel needs that protective coating, or it will rust, but as long as that coating is intact, you will not need to do any maintenance to protect it.
Commercial Fences from Hercules Fence DC
Hercules Fence DC has been providing property owners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well-equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. We have extensive experience working with families and pet owners to keep the most important members of their homes safe, so call us today about installing a new pet fence for your family. Contact us by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
