The Pros & Cons of Aluminum Fencing

As experienced fence contractors at Hurricane Fence, we've installed countless fences across various materials over our 30+ years in business. One material that continues to grow in popularity is aluminum fencing. Known for its sleek appearance and durability, aluminum fencing has become a go-to choice for many property owners. However, like any fencing option, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of aluminum fencing to help you make an informed decision for your property.

Aluminum Fencing PROS:

1. The Elegant Aesthetics of Aluminum Fencing

One of the most significant advantages of aluminum fencing is its aesthetic appeal. Aluminum fences offer a clean, modern look that can enhance the appearance of any property. Their sleek design complements various architectural styles, from contemporary homes to traditional estates.

Aluminum fencing comes in a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes, allowing for customization to match your property's unique character. Whether you prefer a simple, understated look or something more ornate with decorative finials and scrollwork, aluminum fencing can accommodate your vision. This allows property owners to achieve a high-end look without the associated costs and maintenance requirements of traditional wrought iron fencing.

2. The Strength of Aluminum Fencing

Despite its lightweight nature, aluminum fencing boasts impressive strength. Modern aluminum fences are engineered to withstand significant force and impact, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications.

The strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum is particularly noteworthy. It provides robust security and boundary demarcation without the excessive weight of materials like steel. This strength ensures that your fence will stand up to various environmental challenges and potential impacts without compromising its structural integrity.

3. Aluminum Fencing Has A Long Lifespan

Aluminum fencing is known for its exceptional longevity. When properly installed and maintained, an aluminum fence can last for decades, often outliving many other fencing materials. This long lifespan is attributed to several factors, including its resistance to corrosion, its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, and its overall durability.

The longevity of aluminum fencing translates to a better return on investment for property owners. While the initial cost may be higher than some alternatives, the extended lifespan means you won't need to replace your fence as frequently, saving money in the long run.

For our customers, you get the added benefit of a limited lifetime warranty when you get an ActiveYards Aluminum Fence. Hurricane Fence is the Tidewater, VA, and Richmond, VA area’s exclusive installer of American-made, industry-leading fence products. Find out what makes ActiveYards fences a cut above the rest in this blog post.

4. Aluminum Fencing is Rust & Weather Resistant

One of the standout features of aluminum fencing is its superior resistance to rust and corrosion. Unlike steel fences that can rust over time, or wood fences that are prone to rot, especially in humid or coastal environments, aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents corrosion.

This rust-resistant quality makes aluminum fencing an excellent choice for areas with high moisture levels or properties near saltwater, like our Tidewater, Virginia area customers have to contend with neighboring the Chesapeake Bay.

Aluminum fencing has been a top choice for our coastal area customers for our entire 30+ years working in the area, both residential and commercial. From military installations in Norfolk and commercial projects along Hampton Road's Port of Virginia to residential areas throughout the Tidewater area, including Chesapeake, Newport News, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, and beyond, aluminum fencing is tried and true when it comes to all manner of seaside applications. When it comes down to it, you may love living by the beach, but your standard wood fence doesn't. If you live in such an environment and are looking for a fence that will stand the test of time despite the challenging climate, aluminum is, without question, the way to go. Customers in the Greater Tidewater, VA region can call 757-853-5669, or send us a request online to speak with our residential Portsmouth office for more information.

In addition to rust resistance, aluminum fencing stands up well to a wide variety of other weather conditions. It doesn't warp or crack in extreme temperatures, nor does it rot or decay like wood fencing. This weather resistance ensures that your fence remains functional and attractive regardless of climate challenges.

5. Aluminum Fencing is Easy to Install

As fence contractors, we appreciate the ease of installation that comes with aluminum fencing. The lightweight nature of aluminum makes it easier to handle and maneuver during the installation process. This not only speeds up the installation but also reduces labor costs, potentially lowering the overall project expense.

Many aluminum fencing systems are designed with DIY-friendly features, such as pre-assembled panels and simple connection methods. While we always recommend professional installation for the best results, the user-friendly design of aluminum fencing systems can make the process smoother and more efficient.

6. Aluminum Fencing Requires Little Maintenance

One of the most appealing aspects of aluminum fencing for many property owners is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood fencing which needs regular painting or staining, or wrought iron that requires periodic rust treatment, aluminum fencing needs minimal upkeep to maintain its appearance and functionality.

Routine maintenance typically involves nothing more than occasional cleaning with soap and water to remove dirt and debris. The powder-coated finish on most aluminum fences resists fading, chipping, and peeling, ensuring that your fence continues to look great year after year with minimal effort.

This low maintenance characteristic not only saves time but also reduces long-term costs associated with fence upkeep. It's particularly beneficial for commercial properties or homeowners who want an attractive, durable fencing solution without the hassle of frequent maintenance.

Aluminum Fencing CONS:

While aluminum fencing offers numerous advantages, it's important to consider potential drawbacks to make an informed decision. Here are the main cons to consider:

1. The Initial Cost of Aluminum Fencing

One of the primary disadvantages of aluminum fencing is its higher initial cost compared to some other fencing materials. The upfront investment for an aluminum fence can be significantly more than options like chain link or certain types of wood fencing.

However, it's crucial to consider this cost in the context of the fence's longevity and low maintenance requirements. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term value often outweighs the upfront cost for many property owners. When factoring in the reduced need for repairs, replacements, and ongoing maintenance, aluminum fencing can prove to be a cost-effective choice over time.

2. Aluminum Fencing Lacks The Benefit of Additional Privacy

Aluminum fencing, with its typically open design, may not be the best choice for those seeking maximum privacy. Most aluminum fence styles feature pickets with spaces between them, allowing for visibility through the fence. While this can be desirable for maintaining views or creating an open feel, it may not provide the level of privacy some property owners desire.

There are aluminum fence designs with closer picket spacing or added privacy panels, but these options may come at an additional cost and still may not offer the complete privacy of a solid fence material like wood or vinyl.

3. Aluminum Fencing Might Not Be Right for Small Pet Enclosures

For pet owners, particularly those with small dogs or animals that like to dig, standard aluminum fencing may present some challenges. The spaces between pickets in many aluminum fence designs could allow small pets to squeeze through. Additionally, the open bottom of most aluminum fences doesn't prevent pets from digging underneath.

While there are aluminum fence options designed with closer picket spacing and extended bottom rails to address these issues, they may come at a premium and still might not be as secure as a solid fence for containing pets. 

With that said, ActiveYards does offer an accessory called “Puppy Picket” to address this issue. Puppy Picket is essentially an add-on that attaches to the bottom third of aluminum fences that features half-spaced pickets, making it much more difficult for even the smallest pets to escape the safety of your yard.

Is Aluminum Fencing Right for You?

Deciding whether aluminum fencing is the right choice for your property depends on various factors. Here are some key considerations to help you make your decision:

1. Property Type and Purpose: Consider the primary purpose of your fence. If you're looking for an attractive boundary marker or a pool enclosure, aluminum fencing could be an excellent choice. However, if maximum privacy or pet containment is your primary concern, you might want to explore other options.
2. Budget: While aluminum fencing has a higher initial cost, consider your long-term budget. Factor in the reduced maintenance costs and long lifespan when making your decision.
3. Aesthetics: If you're looking for a sleek, modern appearance that complements various architectural styles, aluminum fencing is hard to beat. Its customizable nature allows it to enhance the look of many properties.
4. Maintenance Capabilities: If you prefer a low-maintenance fencing solution, aluminum is an excellent choice. Consider your willingness and ability to perform regular maintenance when choosing your fencing material.
5. Climate: For those in harsh climates or coastal areas, the weather-resistant properties of aluminum fencing make it a particularly attractive option.
6. Security Needs: While aluminum fencing provides a secure boundary, it may not offer the same level of privacy or impenetrability as some other fencing materials. Consider your specific security requirements when making your choice.

At Hurricane Fence, we understand that choosing the right fencing material is a significant decision. We're here to help you navigate your options and find the best solution for your specific needs and preferences. Whether you decide on aluminum fencing or another material, our experienced team can provide expert advice and professional installation to ensure your satisfaction.

Aluminum fencing offers a blend of aesthetics, durability, and low maintenance that makes it an attractive option for many property owners. By weighing these pros and cons against your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision about whether aluminum fencing is the right choice for your property.

If you're considering aluminum fencing or want to explore other fencing options, we invite you to reach out to us at Hurricane Fence. With our extensive experience and commitment to quality, we can help you find and install the perfect fencing solution for your property. Contact us today at 804-353-6030 for our Richmond area customers or 757-853-5669 for our Tidewater area customers. Alternatively, visit our website to request a consultation. Let us help you enhance your property with the perfect fencing solution.