Aluminum fencing can be expensive, but makes up for the investment with a number of attributes that can’t be found in other materials. One of the primary benefits is that its an almost maintenance free solution that’s stylish and highly durable.

Aluminum is a preferred fencing material in South Florida. It has the durability to withstand the ravages of hurricane winds due to the spaces between the pickets. It’s equally appropriate for residential locations, commercial enterprises and even small properties where elegance and aesthetic value is important.

Corrosion

One of the problems that impacts fencing in South Florida is corrosion due to the high humidity levels, frequent rain, and salt water. That’s not a problem with aluminum fencing. It doesn’t rust, rot or corrode. Aluminum doesn’t require painting, staining, or other types of treatments. The ability to withstand water and humidity means stains and dust can be removed by washing it down with warm water and any type of gentle dish washing soap.

Insects

Insects, especially termites, can cause considerable damage to wood fences and other types of insects can take up residence in other materials if there’s even the least bit of a crack where they can enter. Aluminum fencing doesn’t attract insects. There’s no need to worry about insects invading the fencing or adjacent homes and outbuildings.

Environmentally Friendly

The metal is 100 percent recyclable and one of the easiest of all metals to recycle. In addition, the carbon footprint to manufacture aluminum has been significantly reduced over the past 30 years.

Other Attributes

Aluminum fences have other benefits. The material can be fashioned into shapes that rival the finest wrought iron, but at much less cost. It’s available in multiple colors. It can be adapted to complement prevailing styles in a neighborhood and customized into virtually any desired decorative design.

Fences beautify and protect, but no matter how maintenance-free a fencing material may be, it will still require some type of regular maintenance. The type of fencing material an individual has will dictate the amount of upkeep it will require and should be explored before opting for a specific material.

No matter what type of fencing an individual selects, there will be certain maintenance tasks that need to be completed, even if it’s only a weekly inspection of the hardware used to make connections. Other types of material will simply need to be washed down with a hose or pressure washer. Individuals should assess the time, effort and expense they’re willing to expend before they buy.

Wood

Fences constructed of wood will weather and become old-looking. They’ll need to be painted or stained – and applying a primer is recommended before painting. Depending on weather conditions, they may need attention every year to keep them looking good.

Wood fencing is also prone to depredations by insects and an application of an insecticide may be required to surroundings. Wood absorbs moisture, making it susceptible to cracking, rot, mold and mildew. The hardware used to join fencing will also need to be checked regularly to ensure it isn’t rusted or pulled out of the wood.

PVC/Vinyl

Five times stronger than wood, PVC/vinyl fencing requires little in the way of maintenance, withstands strong winds, and adverse weather conditions. It’s earned the Dade County Product Approval Certification and only needs to be washed down with a high-pressure hose.

Aluminum

Aluminum is typically treated with a powder coating for protection against oxidation and rust. It doesn’t require painting or staining. It will need to be wiped down periodically to remove dirt and debris.

SimTek®

The material requires the least amount of maintenance of any fencing on the market. The most it needs is a power washing to keep it looking attractive and to remove everything from dirt to graffiti.