Aluminum fencing is a widely used form of outdoor barrier. It is sturdy and relatively low-cost, making it ideal for use in numerous situations. Will an aluminum fence do the job for your purpose, though? Here are five ways to determine if you should choose aluminum fencing.
Cost per Foot
Most kinds of fencing will be more expensive than aluminum. For example, wrought iron costs start at around $24 per linear foot. Conversely, an aluminum fence may cost as little as $8 per linear foot. Wrought iron installation costs also tend to be significantly more expensive.
There are other options like vinyl and wood. However, these tend to not offer the security value of metal fencing.
Low-Maintenance
Aluminum fencing is popular for applications where property owners don't plan to do lots of maintenance. Repainting a wooden fence in front of a house every few years is one thing. If you're installing fencing as a barrier to keep people out of a vacant lot, you're probably not thinking about caring for hundreds of feet of fencing regularly. It needs to stand up to the elements while being low-maintenance.
Modern treatment processes also mean that aluminum holds up well to corrosion. It doesn't rot like wood, and it won't rust anywhere close to as fast as iron or steel will. Likewise, it handles prolonged UV exposure much better than vinyl.
Lightweight
Especially if you need to carry lots of fencing to a relatively inaccessible spot, the weight of the materials will matter. An aluminum fence comes in sections, and each section is light enough for one person to carry.
This also makes it a greater choice for projects that break down several times. If you're renovating several buildings, you might fence each remodel off one at a time. As you move from site to site, the fence can move along with you.
Reusable and Recyclable
Aluminum is highly reusable. Construction companies, for example, frequently reuse the same fence sections for many projects over many years. If you need to get rid of it, it's also easily recyclable. Consequently, you don't have to worry about wastefulness when you use aluminum fencing.
Deterrent Value
Most aluminum models provide sufficient deterrent value to people and small animals. It shouldn't be your only line of defense, but an aluminum fence will do the job of warding off wanderers and most would-be intruders. It is greater for use near pools, at parks, and around large facilities.
For more info about aluminum fencing, contact a local company.