Regarding fencing materials, vinyl (PVC) is much stronger than wood (timber), although timber fencing is a classic. Wrought iron is attractive and sophisticated. However, aluminum fencing comes with many benefits that rival other fencing types.
Aluminum stands out as a versatile and practical material offering an array of benefits. Its popularity in the fencing industry is on the rise due to its durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. Aluminium fencing strikes a perfect balance between functionality and style, making it a preferred choice for residential, commercial, and industrial properties alike.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of aluminium fencing, exploring its characteristics, advantages, installation process, maintenance tips, and popular styles.
Understanding Aluminium Fencing
Aluminium fencing is crafted from lightweight yet sturdy aluminium alloy, making it an excellent alternative to traditional materials like wrought iron or wood. The fabrication process involves extruding or molding the aluminium into various fence components such as pickets, rails, and posts. These components are then assembled using fasteners or welding techniques to create durable and visually appealing fences.
Top 5 Benefits of Aluminum Fences
1. Environmentally Friendly
An aluminum fence doesn't rust, and its color doesn't fade away. You don't have to paint it regularly. This means you won't have to waste materials to maintain or replace it like you would with other fences. Other materials also aren't recyclable, like aluminum. If you need to remove your fence, you can rest easy knowing that it can be recycled and won't sit in a landfill. Aluminum fencing protects your house and shows that you care for the environment.
2. Landscaping Support
Aluminum fences can be styled and shaped according to your needs, allowing them to easily complement your home's landscaping. It's beneficial, especially if you plan to resell your apartment. According to Signature Concrete Design, landscaping adds approximately 14% to the resale price of your home. An aluminum fence is a wise investment to add value to your home.
3. Safety
Aluminum fences are safer than wood fences because they're harder to break into. Wood fences are easily removable and easy to break, unlike aluminum fences. The fence acts as a barrier to protecting your kids and pets. You can install it around your garden and house to keep invaders away.
4. Durability
Aluminum fencing isn't prone to corrosion. So, unlike iron, aluminum doesn't rust. It doesn't fade or rot, so you don't have to worry about sunlight, hail, termites, snow, or moisture damaging it over time.
5. Simple Maintenance
Aluminum fences are the easiest type of fence to maintain. Unlike regularly painted and refinished wood, aluminum doesn't need a new protective coat. To care for an aluminum fence, you only need to keep off debris like piles of fallen twigs and leaves.
Aluminum fencing boasts environmental friendliness, easy maintenance, durability, safety, and amazing visual appeal. Moreover, it looks similar to steel and wrought iron models, thus giving you a classic look at a lower cost. It's light to transport and typically requires lower labor costs to install. Consider installing aluminum fencing around your garden or home to enjoy these benefits.
Disadvantages of Aluminum Fence
While aluminium fencing offers numerous advantages, it's essential to consider potential drawbacks before deciding if it's the right fencing option for your needs. Here are some cons of aluminium fencing to keep in mind:
1. Initial Cost
One of the primary drawbacks of aluminium fencing is its relatively higher initial cost compared to some other fencing materials, such as wood or vinyl. While the long-term durability and low maintenance requirements can offset this initial investment, the upfront expense may be a deterrent for some homeowners.
2. Less Privacy
Aluminium fencing typically consists of spaced pickets or panels, which provide limited privacy compared to solid fence options like wood or vinyl. If privacy is a priority for you, aluminium fencing may not be the best choice without additional privacy features like added screening or landscaping.
3. Installation Challenges on Uneven Terrain
Installing aluminium fencing on uneven terrain or slopes can pose challenges due to the rigid nature of the material. Customizing the fence to accommodate changes in elevation may require additional planning and labor compared to more flexible materials like vinyl.
Despite these drawbacks, aluminium fencing remains a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. By weighing the pros and cons carefully and considering your specific needs and priorities, you can determine whether aluminium fencing is the right choice for your property.
How to Install Aluminium Fence?
Installing aluminium fencing is relatively straightforward, especially when compared to more labor-intensive materials like wrought iron. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you install an aluminium fence:
Gather Materials and Tools: Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools for the installation. This typically includes aluminium fence panels, posts, rails, pickets, concrete, post hole digger, level, tape measure, screws or brackets, and a drill.
Plan and Measure: Start by planning the layout of your fence and measuring the area where it will be installed. Mark the locations for the fence posts, ensuring they are spaced evenly and aligned according to your design preferences.
Dig Post Holes: Use a post hole digger to excavate holes for the fence posts. The depth and diameter of the holes will depend on factors such as the height of the fence and local building codes. As a general rule, aim for a depth of at least one-third to one-half of the post height.
Set Posts: Place the fence posts in the holes and fill them with concrete to secure them in place. Use a level to ensure the posts are plumb (vertical) and aligned correctly. Allow the concrete to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding.
Install Rails: Once the concrete has cured, attach the horizontal rails to the posts using screws or brackets. The rails should be spaced evenly and level across the length of the fence.
Attach Pickets or Panels: Depending on the style of your aluminium fence, you'll either attach individual pickets or pre-assembled panels to the rails. Use screws or brackets to secure them in place, ensuring they are spaced evenly and aligned properly.
Add Gates and Accessories: If your fence includes gates or other accessories, install them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure hinges, latches, and other hardware are securely attached and functioning correctly.
Check for Level and Alignment: Once the fence is fully assembled, use a level to check for any areas that are out of alignment or not level. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the fence is straight and evenly spaced.
Finish Touches: Add any finishing touches, such as decorative caps for the posts or additional embellishments, to enhance the appearance of your aluminium fence.
Clean Up: Finally, clean up any debris or excess materials from the installation site and enjoy your newly installed aluminium fence.
It's important to note that while installing an aluminium fence is relatively simple, it's always a good idea to consult local building codes and regulations before beginning any fencing project. Additionally, if you're not comfortable or confident in your DIY abilities, consider hiring a professional fencing contractor near you to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Maintenance Tips For Your Aluminum Fence
If you're looking to install a new fence for your yard or pool, you might consider aluminum fencing. According to SidmartinBio, one of the things that makes aluminum fencing so attractive is its relatively low maintenance compared to other fencing material types. Here's a quick guide to show you how to care for your aluminum fence.
Clean Your Fence Regularly
A simple way to clean an aluminum fence is to spray it every so often with a garden hose. This alone should be enough to remove all the accumulated dirt and debris to keep your fence looking as new as possible. When using a garden hose this way, clean your fence from the bottom to the top and vice versa. Let your fence air dry, or use a cloth to wipe it dry. Besides light cleaning, you can also target stains with a regular degreasing product before rinsing thoroughly. If the stains are not coming off easily, rinse the surface with clean water and then use a sponge, dish soap, and water to get them off. Then rinse it, and you'll have a clean aluminum fence.
Perform Regular Maintenance
You might need a long-term maintenance schedule to ensure your aluminum fence remains in the best condition possible. For instance, if you live in a coastal area, it's essential to spray-clean your fence regularly to get rid of salt and dirt deposits. Be sure to avoid stacking or mounting any objects or materials near your fence, so it doesn't damage it. You may also need to re-tamp and realign any loose posts as needed.
For the most part, your aluminum fencing won't require much upkeep. The most involved task you may need to do is to apply touch-up paint once in a while. You should also frequently inspect your fence to check for dirt, stains, or loose components.
As you can see, a durable aluminum fence doesn't require constant care and maintenance. Using these easy-to-do tips, you should be able to keep your fence looking good and keep it strong for longer. It all begins with investing in a high-quality product and installation from the start.
Regular Cleaning: Periodically wash the fence with mild soap and water to remove dirt, grime, and other debris. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
Inspect for Damage: Routinely inspect the fence for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or loose components. Promptly repair or replace any damaged parts to prevent further deterioration.
Lubricate Moving Parts: If your aluminum fence features gates or other moving parts, lubricate hinges, latches, and rollers as needed to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.
Popular Types of Aluminium Fencing & Gates
Aluminium fencing offers a wide range of design options to suit various architectural styles and personal preferences. Some popular styles include:
1. Aluminum Horizontal Slat Fencing
Aluminum horizontal slat fencing is a popular style of fencing that uses horizontal slats, or boards, to create a modern and sleek look. It's known for its clean lines, minimalist design, and ability to provide varying degrees of privacy depending on the spacing of the slats.
2. Aluminum Vertical Slat Fencing
Aluminum vertical slat fencing is a type of fencing system characterized by closely spaced vertical slats made of aluminum. These slats are installed vertically between horizontal rails or posts to create a solid and visually appealing barrier.
3. Aluminum Horizontal Louver Fencing
For aluminum horizontal louver fencing, the slats are designed in a louvered or angled fashion, allowing for adjustable control of light, airflow, and visibility.
4. Aluminum Vertical Blade Fencing
This style features vertically oriented slats that run from the bottom to the top of the fence, which can help create a sense of height and elegance.
5. Aluminum Picket Fence
A classic and versatile choice, aluminum picket fences offer a timeless look with vertical pickets spaced between horizontal rails. They come in various heights, picket shapes (square, pointed, etc.), and can be used for both front and back yards.
6. Privacy aluminum fence
No matter your style, budget, or fencing needs, an aluminum fence can be a fantastic addition to the home. Just remember that if it’s time for an upgrade, there are rules and regulations to follow and more often than not, neighbors to be consulted, so be sure to do your research.
Get A Free Quote For Install New Aluminum Fencing in Melbourne
The versatile world of aluminum fencing offers many benefits and options. Contact a top fence company, like Latitude Fencing & Gates, if you need commercial or residential fencing. They can give you a free quote for their services. They will talk to you about your choices and show you exciting aluminum fencing options you didn't know you had.