Choosing between aluminum vs steel fence is an important decision. Both are excellent options for selecting a fencing material for design, durability, and minimum maintenance.
Both aluminum and steel fences are virtually maintenance-free, meaning you’ll spend more time enjoying the yard — not working in it. And, at a fraction of the cost of wrought iron, aluminum and steel fencing provide style and security without breaking the bank.
That said, there are some essential differences between steel and aluminum fences to consider when deciding on the suitable fence material for your home. This guide discusses the three top things to consider when choosing an aluminum vs. steel fence.
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Compared to traditional fencing materials like wood and chain link, aluminum and steel offer exceptional durability.
Both are made to last. Aluminum, in particular, is impervious to the elements and will not corrode or rust. Steel can rust, but it is well-protected and virtually maintenance-free when treated with a protective coating (such as that found on Ameristar ornamental steel fencing).
If security is a top priority (or you have particularly “adventurous” kids or pets), you may be better served with a steel fence. Unlike aluminum, a high-strength material, steel fences are manufactured using a welded construction process, reinforcing an already solid material.
You may also want to use more durable materials like aluminum or steel when building protective pool fencing.
Both aluminum and ornamental steel fences come in various styles, but it’s worth noting that aluminum fencing offers a broader range of color options.
If complementing the style and color of your home is most important to you, consider an aluminum fence. Elite Ornamental Aluminum Fencing, for example, is available in seven standard colors — and custom colors can be created, as well. Steel fences are typically offered in fewer colors (black and bronze are standard).
Keep in mind that no matter which material you choose, various styling options and accessories are available for steel and aluminum fences. From pressed pear pickets to ball caps, tri, and quad finials to arched loops, steel and aluminum can bring all the sophistication and elegance of wrought iron to your home — without all the cost and maintenance.
What about aluminum vs. steel fence cost?
Compared to expensive wrought iron fences, maintenance-intensive options like wood, aluminum, and steel fences offer incredible value. But steel is a bit more costly than aluminum due to its more resilient welded construction.
However, keep in mind that extra money spent up-front on either a steel or aluminum fence will doubtlessly save significant costs over time.
The ornamental steel and aluminum fences available from Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions feature protective coatings designed to minimize maintenance and protect your investment from the elements.
Minimum maintenance, along with aesthetic appeal, can additionally increase the resale value of your home, as well, significantly upping the long-term return on your investment in an aluminum or steel fence.
Protecting your investment is essential, which is why reputable manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties on their fences. Make sure when shopping for a fence you consider this important factor, as well.
Below are just a few of the most frequently asked questions homeowners have when deciding whether to purchase aluminum vs. steel fences.
They are stronger than most people might think.
While not as strong as steel or wrought iron fencing, residential-grade aluminum fence rails can usually support about 350 lbs. of pressure.
And if you’re using industrial-grade fence models, you can expect them to stand up to even higher pressure ratings.
Aluminum fencing will not rust, making it an excellent maintenance-free fencing option.
Since it does not contain iron or steel, it doesn’t react to oxygen or water to the same degree as other metal fencing.
However, it should be noted that quality iron and steel fencing is usually coated with a protective material to prevent rusting and maintain the fence’s structural integrity.
Aluminum fencing does tend to cost a bit more than other fence types.
According to HomeAdvisor, aluminum fences cost about $26 per linear foot. Compare that to vinyl ($17/sq ft) and wood ($12/sq ft).
That being said, there is a lot more to consider here than simple upfront costs.
For instance, aluminum fencing upkeep is significantly less costly than traditional wood fencing. With wood, you’re cleaning, scraping, and repainting your fence every three years if you want to keep it in good shape.
On top of that, a well-built wood fence will typically last about 15 years.
On the other hand, an aluminum fence requires little to no maintenance throughout its lifetime. Typically, spraying it down with the hose every once in a while is all it takes to keep it clean.
Plus, you can expect a solid aluminum fence to last anywhere from 30 to 40 years—at least 2X as long as wood.
As you can see, paying a bit more upfront for an aluminum fence is the wiser financial choice in the long run.
For a more detailed breakdown of the expenses, be sure to check out our guide to aluminum fence costs.
So, steel or aluminum fence—which is better?
Simply put, it depends on what you’re looking for in a fence.
When it comes to durability, a steel fence can take more of a beating than an aluminum fence, thanks to its welded construction process.
However, aluminum resists oxidation and will not succumb to rust like steel (unless it’s coated with protective materials).
For style, aluminum offers more colors to choose from. This allows for more opportunities to match home styles and surrounding décor. Beyond that, custom colors can be created in some instances.
On the other hand, steel tends to only be available in a few shades.
Finally, aluminum beats out steel in terms of cost, but not much.
So, when comparing aluminum vs. steel fencing, it depends on which of these factors is more important to you.
Need help deciding whether an aluminum or ornamental steel fence is suitable for you? Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions has been installing maintenance-free fences around the entire St. Louis area since 1994.
Family-based with decades in the industry, we offer the best in American-made fencing in the St. Louis area as a fencing contractor.
And if you are weighing the pros and cons of purchasing an aluminum vs. steel fence, we can help.
For more information on aluminum and steel fencing options from Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions, visit our showroom or request a free, full-service estimate.
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