Aluminum: More Than Just Another Metal

There is more to a fence than the material it is made of, but consumers often incorrectly judge a material without considering all the information.

Aluminum is often compared to wrought iron, and many people automatically jump to the conclusion that aluminum is the inferior metal choice. However, the topic of which metal is better is not quite so black and white. There are a lot of reasons that aluminum is falsely perceived to be inferior, one of which is the comparison to aluminum cans. Cans are purposely built thin and flimsy so they do their job but are easily recyclable, leading to less waste. The fact that aluminum can be thinned out so well shows how strong of a material it is. Would you want metal fencing panels protecting your home that were made of a material that would shatter when pounded out into a different shape? If you are like most people, you’d want a metal that is durable no matter how it is laid out.

Durability is most important

When it comes to a durable fence, you cannot get much better than wrought iron or aluminum. Both materials stand up to extreme weather conditions with ease. They are also made to last quite a long time, with minimal wear and tear. Aluminum has a leg up on wrought iron in the sense that aluminum fencing is treated to be completely rust-proof. Wrought iron will not rust away after just one rainy season, but it is something to keep in mind. Many people choose iron so they can have the antique green-like patina finish that is currently in fashion. However, when thinking practically about what is best for the longevity and durability of a fence, you should choose one that will stay in the same shape as the day you bought it.

Heavyweight champion

Aluminum has another leg up on wrought iron thanks to its ease of installation. Not only is the product itself and its delivery less costly, but you also have a better chance of being able to do it yourself! Wrought iron is quite heavy and very cumbersome to install without professional help. That can get expensive, and you also have less say over how things are done. If you are taking control of your fence building and want a product and material that you can maneuver with ease but will withstand time, weather and rust, aluminum is the clear choice.

Is aluminum just an inferior metal to wrought iron?

Wrought iron is not superior or inferior to aluminum when it comes to metal fencing panels. Both are wonderful choices for a protective barrier around your property. Some people just assume aluminum is inferior because its price is lower than that of iron. Iron is strong and sturdy and most often seen in large, intricate fences surrounding commercial properties or larger, expensive homes. Nevertheless, aluminum can be just as large and in charge, especially when you use industrial-style aluminum fencing to create a fence with more girth and strength.

The question should not be about which metal is sturdier but which one better fits your needs. If you want a strong, sturdy, weatherproof and rustproof fence but don’t want to break the bank, an aluminum fence fits the bill.