You may have noticed the various fencing options while driving around your neighborhood. While wood has traditionally been the most popular fencing material, you may have noticed an increased use of metal fences. Maybe it's time for you to get a metal fence, too! A metal fence can be beneficial to your home. It will not only add texture to the outside of your home but also deter intruders and animals.
Even if you live in an area where wood fences are common, a metal fence could be an excellent choice. If you have a small yard, a metal fence will provide you with the benefit of something visible and protective while keeping your yard as open as possible.
Continue reading for more information on the history of metal fences and our top reasons why you should get a metal fence for your property!
Metal Fence History
Only the wealthy could afford to import wrought ironwork for their properties in our country's early days. However, by the early 1800s, domestic blacksmithing had grown, and ornamental iron fencing had become more affordable. When you think of the traditional wrought-iron fence, you probably think of the popular style during the Victorian era. Foundries began casting and mass-producing elaborate pickets, posts, and scroll details at this time, making them more widely available.
Even if they are designed to look like traditional wrought iron, most metal fences today are made of aluminum or steel. Even the classic glossy-black paint on wrought iron has been upgraded to a longer-lasting, multistep powder-coating process that significantly reduces maintenance. Along with traditional steel fencing, many homeowners prefer aluminum or chain-link fencing. We'll review the top five reasons for each metal fence choice.
Read more: All About Metal Fences
5 Reasons to Install a Metal Fence: Chain Link
Security
Families install fencing around their homes primarily for security reasons. However, the fence's purpose is not to keep intruders out but to keep people and pets from fleeing! This is likely a concern for you if you have young children or pets.
When you install a chain-link fence, you can rest assured that your children and pets can play outside safely and securely. Chain link fencing is an excellent choice, especially compared to wrought iron fencing, which may allow smaller animals to pass through.
Affordability
Chain link fencing is very inexpensive, especially compared to other fencing types. Instead of using a lot of material, a chain link fence comprises thin wires crossed over to form a strong unit. These fences are much more affordable because material costs have been reduced. Chain link fencing is less expensive than vinyl, wood, and wrought iron, making it an excellent choice for the astute buyer.
Easy Installation
Chain link fences can be installed much faster than wrought iron or vinyl fencing, resulting in lower installation costs. Furthermore, it is quick and simple if you need to replace your fence in the future. Regardless of how your fence was damaged (which is uncommon), replacing individual sections usually takes only a few minutes.
Low Maintenance
Traditional wood fencing necessitates a significant amount of upkeep. Because wood is a natural material, it will rot, and its paint will peel over time. Chain link fencing is made of metal and is powder-coated to keep water out. As a result, it is rust-free. Because of this barrier, your chain link fence is more like a man-made material than a natural metal, requiring little to no maintenance.
Long-Lasting
Chain link fencing is extremely durable and resistant to damage and harsh weather conditions so it can last for years. While natural fences made of wood or bamboo degrade over time, a metal fence protected with a powder or paint layer should last. Considering a chain-link fence's long lifespan, the cost per year drops dramatically. As a result, it becomes an even more affordable investment in your home.
5 Reasons to Install a Metal Fence: Aluminum
Versatile
Only a few styles of chain link and wrought iron fences are available. Aluminum fencing, on the other hand, can appear classical or modern, understated or ornamental. Aluminum fencing is easily adaptable to changes in the landscape, enabling property owners to avoid gaps and unusual transitions. This highly customizable material is an excellent way to personalize your fence.
Cost-Effective
Wrought iron fencing is among the most expensive products on the market. While chain-link fencing is less expensive, it is not as visually appealing. Aluminum fencing is not only less expensive than wrought iron, but it also has a lower lifetime cost of ownership.
Strong and long-lasting
In contrast to wrought iron fencing, which can rust and corrode, aluminum fencing is largely resistant to the elements. Aluminum's chemical composition resists rust and will not fade or rot over time!
Maintenance-Free
Because aluminum does not rot, rust, or fade, it will require little to no maintenance over its lifetime. It also stands up well to high winds, strong storms, and flying debris, usually without needing touch-ups or repairs.
Environmentally Friendly
Remember all those aluminum cans you threw in the recycling bin? Many of them are recycled into aluminum fencing. As a result, this is one of the most environmentally friendly fencing materials available. Aluminum fencing is an excellent choice for those looking for environmentally friendly options for their home.
5 Reasons to Install a Metal Fence: Steel
Durable and Heavy-Duty
A steel fence can withstand the elements and last for many years. These fences are highly resistant to rust and retain their attractive appearance for an extended period of time. Their strength also makes them excellent for safety and security.
Aesthetically-Pleasing
Steel fences add authority and stateliness to your property, making it more appealing. Wrought iron fences and gates are stunning and enhance the overall appearance of any home or business.
Easy to Add an Automatic Gate
One of the most significant advantages of a steel fence is the ease with which an automatic gate can be installed. You get the security and peace of mind that comes with a fully fenced-in property and the convenience of automation. For this reason, many people are opting for automatic gates. They want to keep their property secure while still having the convenience of coming and going with the push of a button.
Easy to Maintain
After a steel fence is installed, it requires very little maintenance. They resist wind, rain, snow, hail, and most other elements. And, unlike wood, there's no need to be concerned about rot or insects. There is also no need to paint or stain these fences.
Increase Property Value
If you intend to sell your home or property shortly, a steel fence will be an asset to many prospective buyers, especially if it includes a higher-quality automatic gate! It improves the curb appeal of your home or property and gives a better first impression.
In conclusion
As a homeowner, landowner, or business owner, you'll naturally want to increase the value, protect, and maintain the appearance of your home. Metal fencing has undeniably appealing qualities, as evidenced by the lists above. Because of its ease of maintenance and appealing modern appearance, metal fencing is popular. Its strong, robust construction gives your property stability, durability, and an attractive appearance that outlasts any other type of fencing. Contact Latitude Fencing & Gates today to install a metal fence on your property.