There are a number of benefits to aluminum fencing and it’s no wonder that it’s a preferred fencing material in South Florida. Fencing must be durable enough to withstand the ravages of hurricanes that produce high winds and flooding involving saltwater. Aluminum is appropriate for small properties, estates, and commercial endeavors.

Aesthetic Value

Aluminum if available in multiple styles, colors and lends itself to a variety of customization options. It provides an elegant look to any property. It can be fashioned to emulate high-end wrought iron and highly stylized gate options.

Affordability

The material is affordable and provides good value for the money since it can last for up to 50 years when properly installed. Aluminum is less expensive than other materials.

Durability

Aluminum doesn’t succumb to rot, rust and predations by insect pests. It doesn’t oxidize, corrode, and is able to withstand saltwater without damage. An added advantage is that aluminum fences are designed with space between the pickets, allowing wind to blow through it. That enables the fence to withstand high winds and it’s stronger than vinyl or wood.

Versatile

The fencing is appropriate for keeping children and pets safely contained, while keeping wildlife, stray animals, and human intruders out. Aluminum fencing can be equipped with panels at ground level for an extra level of security for small children and pint-sized pets. It’s also effective as a security measure. For those that like to garden, shrubbery or bushes can be planted against the fence, vines can create a living wall, or the fence can be installed so home owners can see through it.

Low Maintenance

Aluminum requires only minimal maintenance, typically in the form of spraying it down with the garden hose to keep it looking new. Neither will it require yearly refinishing or painting.

Aluminum fencing has a wide variety of attributes, making it ideal for a clean-looking enclosure when appearances are important. It’s available in multiple colors to accent or blend in with any environment. Security, durability and elegance are the benchmarks of aluminum fencing and it increases property values.

Strength

It’s a little-known fact that the Wright brothers used aluminum for the crankcase in their first airplane engine. It was the first time the metal was used in aircraft design and has since gone on to be a star in the space industry. It’s strong enough to withstand the stresses occurring during spacecraft launches and has been used by NASA, in Skylab, and the International Space Station.

Cost

One of the most attractive attributes for average individuals is the cost. It’s an affordable option for the budget conscious and can last for up to 50 years when properly maintained. There are multiple styles from which to choose and the material can be fashioned to emulate the appearance of high-end wrought iron but without the expensive price tag.

Security

It’s an excellent security choice to prevent entry by unwanted human intruders, along with dangerous wildlife and loose domestic animals. It’s equally applicable to contain children and pets. Options are available that can be installed to keep pets in that are prone to digging. Aluminum can also be affixed with spikes on top for added security.

Aluminum fencing is incredibly versatile and appropriate for multiple environments, from homes, businesses and commercial enterprises to sports fields and public parks. It’s a low-maintenance metal that requires little effort to keep its appearance.

Environmentally Friendly

It’s an environmentally friendly option for eco-minded individuals and the material can be recycled at the end of its lifespan. People have been recycling aluminum for over 100 years and 75 percent of aluminum that’s been produced is still being used today. With that kind of durability, it’s no wonder that aluminum is a favorite fencing choice for budget-conscious individuals.

Erecting a fence is a major project that can be extremely expensive. Individuals need to balance the vision they have of the “perfect” fence with budgetary concerns. Other people simply make their fencing selection based on price alone. Multiple elements affect the cost of a fence encompassing the material and height, along with the slope of the land, the type of soil, installation and permits, and gates. That doesn’t include installation costs.

Chain Link

Chain link fencing is by far the least expensive at $5 to $20 per foot, depending on the height.  It’s commonly used for security and safety purposes, keeping children and pets contained, and preventing the entry of human and wildlife intruders. It’s easy and quick to install.

PVC

A PVC fence will run between $15.50 to $18.50 per linear foot. It’s available in a myriad of colors and more than 30 decorative styles. It’s able to withstand high winds and has earned the Dade County Product Approval Certification. PVC is highly durable and won’t split, crack, peel, splinter, warp or rot. It’s a good option for privacy, keeping children and pets within bounds, and preventing entry by intruders and wildlife. It can emulate the appearance of stone or wood.

Aluminum

The cost of aluminum fencing is approximately $22 per linear foot. It’s highly decorative, available in multiple styles and colors, and can be topped with spikes for an additional level of security. It’s low maintenance and has a stately, elegant appearance.

Wood

A wood fence is on the high end of the price scale and will cost between $17 to $45 per linear foot, depending on the type of wood that’s used. It can be installed horizontally or vertically and is a popular choice for privacy.

SimTek®

The material can run anywhere between $70 and $90 per linear foot. It has a 25 year/lifetime warranty. The fencing is highly durable and is available in styles that emulates the look and texture of real wood and stone. SimTek® is offered in multiple colors and it’s fade resistant. The high-impact material absorbs sound, is graffiti resistant and eco-friendly. It’s popular for privacy and security purposes, buffers sound, and can withstand hurricane force winds and ocean spray.

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about aluminum fences, much of which is based on outdated information and a lack of understanding of modern manufacturing methods. It offers strength, security and durability while providing a look of traditional elegance. Aluminum has many qualities to recommend it far beyond its durability and beauty.

Rust

One of the most attractive elements of aluminum fencing is its ability to stand up to rust and corrosion. Some research estimates that the longevity of aluminum can be up to 10,000 years before it would begin to break down and disintegrate. It also tolerates UV rays without fading.

Rot and Insects

Aluminum fencing isn’t subject to rot and that’s a definite plus in Florida’s humid weather and an environment that can see significant rainfall. The material is also highly unappealing to insect pests. Insects can infiltrate other types of materials and play a significant role in rot.

Low Maintenance

Owners of an aluminum fence won’t have to spend time staining or painting it to keep it looking attractive. A powder coating can be applied that will last for years to keep it looking good without any special maintenance requirements.

Easy Replacement

If a section of aluminum fencing becomes damaged under any unforeseen circumstance, it can be easily replaced in the same style and color.

Environmentally Friendly

Aluminum fencing is a popular choice for those that want an eco-friendly solution. The material is 100 percent recyclable.

Customizable and Versatile

Modern aluminum fencing can be customized in a myriad of stylings, including the spacing of the pickets and the top of the upright components. It can be installed in multiple ways to accommodate an extensive array of environmental aesthetics.

Cost and Security

Aluminum is far less expensive than wrought iron, while providing many of the same properties. It provides an enhanced level of safety for children, pets and property.

Individuals have multiple fencing materials from which to choose and it will be difficult to make a decision. While most people opt for newer materials, there are times when tried and tested aluminum fencing may be the best option for your yard. Aluminum has a variety of benefits that tend to get overlooked.

Affordable

The cost of aluminum fencing makes it a very affordable option and provides an excellent return on investment since it has a significant lifespan. A properly installed aluminum fence can last for up to 50 years.

Appearance

Aluminum is available in multiple colors, styles and can be customized in a variety of ways. It can even be painted, but the most popular color choice is black due to its clean lines and elegant look. The material can be fashioned to look like high-end wrought iron.

Durability

Aluminum fencing is highly durable since it doesn’t oxidize and rust like iron. Aluminum doesn’t warp, crack, chip, flake or rot. The material is extremely unappealing to insects.

Maintenance

Minimal maintenance is a feature of aluminum fencing. A scrub down with soapy water and a brush, combined with a rinse with the garden hose, is all that’s needed to keep aluminum fencing looking like new.

Security and Safety

If you have children or pets, aluminum fencing is an excellent solution for keeping them safe and within the boundary of the yard. Panels can be added for an extra layer of protection for very small children and diminutive pets. The fencing keeps stray animals and wildlife from entering and is a strong deterrent to would-be human intruders. It’s easy to install multiple types of security gates to aluminum fencing.

Value and Insurance

Aluminum fencing adds value to properties and it can help you save in other ways. Many insurance companies offer discounts or better rates on policies for properties protected by fencing.

Versatility

The fencing can be utilized in a variety of ways and enables you to see beyond the yard’s confines if you desire. Bushes and shrubbery can be planted to block the view if you prefer. The fencing also has benefits if you like to garden. You can plant flowers against the fence and let them drape artfully against the barrier or let vines twine among the rails.

Homeowners have multiple material choices for their fencing. You can choose from metal, PVC, wood, vinyl, composite, SimTek®, and masonry styles with a wealth of design options within each material type. There are pros and cons for each type and you can use the following tips for selecting the fencing materials that best fits your individual needs.

Building Codes and HOAs

Communities often have their own set of building codes about the type, style, color, materials, and height of the fencing that can be erected. If your area has a homeowners association (HOA) your options may be limited to what the HOA allows.

Cost

Fencing and the installation can represent a significant expense and you’ll need to know how much you can or are willing to spend. You may need to budget more to the project or seek a more cost-effective alternative, depending upon what you envision for your property.

Durability

The predations of insect pests, mold, and degradation from wind, rain, sun, and salt spray are very real considerations. The ability of your fence to withstand those elements and the unique climate will also be a consideration for the long-term durability of the fencing you choose.

Maintenance

Some types of fencing require regular inspections and periodic maintenance, while others are almost maintenance-free. Some may need to be painted, stained or sealed. An additional consideration in Florida is hurricanes and the associated damage they can sustain or inflict. Some types of fencing are able to withstand hurricane-force winds.

Objective

It’s important to know why you want a fence. They can be used for beautification, safety and security, to contain children or pets, minimizing road-noise, or to establish boundaries. The reason you want a fence will influence the material that’s selected.

Style

You may want a fence that blends into the surrounding architecture and prevailing styles or you may want something that’s a marked departure that makes your home stand out. You can choose from highly elaborate styles or no-frills options, but you should always research any relevant codes and regulations before making a decision.

Aluminum fencing has become popular for commercial use due to its versatility and elegant appearance. It can be fashioned into styles with the appearance of picket fencing, wrought iron, and even solid panels. It’s equally at home within park and pool environments, industrial sites, rental units, restaurants, and dozens of other commercial applications.

The fencing provides all the safety, security, and durability of more expensive materials, but at a lesser cost without sacrificing strength. It resists corrosion, requires little maintenance, and it’s available in an extensive array of colors to coordinate with prevailing surroundings. Aluminum fencing can be established in a wide variety of configurations for public barriers and to manage high traffic areas.

Gates and alarm systems are easily included for added security and multiple heights are available to accommodate a wide range of needs. One of the benefits of aluminum fencing is that it has enduring strength and durability when clear boundaries need to be delineated. It can also be sloped to maintain a single height in areas with uneven landscaping.

Modern aluminum fencing can be utilized in a variety of commercial environments. It’s especially beneficial for rental units and housing complexes to enhance safety and security while distinguishing the property. Within the confines of the property, aluminum fencing can also be used to hide any unsightly features such as trash bins or generators.

It’s also a safe solution for schools and childcare centers to keep unwanted individuals out, along with any wildlife that may try to enter. For those same reasons, aluminum fencing is an ideal solution for animal breeders. Aluminum fencing is applicable at construction sites, to provide security at outdoor entertainments, and restaurants that offer outdoor dining options.

Aluminum fencing serves a variety of purposes for a great number of commercial endeavors. It’s a strong and sturdy barrier around pools for therapeutic uses, within campgrounds, and at factories and warehouses. Today’s aluminum fencing is functional, with a wealth of customization options for beautification.

Modern aluminum fencing offers a wealth of opportunities for beautifying properties, providing a secure barrier to protect children and pets, and offers exceptional durability. It presents a visually appealing appearance and can be customized in a variety of ways.

Even though aluminum isn’t heavy, it’s no lightweight when it comes to strength. Many fences that appear to be wrought iron in locations such as parks, swimming pools, commercial projects, and housing developments are actually crafted from aluminum.