Pros And Cons Of Using Aluminum Fencing For Projects

Aluminum fencing is one of the most popular options available in the industry. Systems are available for both residential and commercial aluminum fencing needs, but you might wonder whether using aluminum is the right approach for your project. Here are some of the pros and cons of using aluminum fencing.

Pro: Maintainability

Manufacturers coat nearly all aluminum fence materials with coats that make them highly weatherproof. Unless you're in a region with highly corrosive elements in the atmosphere, such as pollution or strong salt concentrations, you can expect to get decades of service from your fence.

Con: Sturdiness

Aluminum fences aren't ideal for applications where you expect them to take a beating. For example, aluminum probably isn't a great choice to use within a few feet of heavy machinery or trucks. It will get dinged up from repeated strikes and bumps. Likewise, you'll have a hard time getting it to go back to its original shape once it has been damaged.

Pro: Rackability

Within the fencing industry, rackability refers to the ability of a product to adjust to varied terrain. If you're dealing with a property that has several slopes, for example, a highly rackable product will allow you to follow the contours to keep everything plumb. You'll also have an easy time finding custom aluminum fencing that can be tailored to oddly-shaped terrain, providing a plumb fence without sacrificing the visual straightness of the vertical elements.

Con: Security

The lighter weight of aluminum means it is an easier material to compromise or remove. Similarly, you can cut it easily with off-the-shelf tools. It's not a great product for applications where you need to keep intruders or animals out.

Mixed: Numerous Types

Cost and manufacturing ease means there are many companies that market aluminum fencing. That's great, for example, if you haven't settled on a specific type of ornamental aluminum fencing and are waiting to see the right option. On the downside, it means there's rarely a single answer when you're trying to pick a product for a particular application. Also, there are cheap products available, especially from overseas suppliers, so you'll need to study the manufacturers.

Pro: Ease of Installation

Even complex custom aluminum fencing systems are easy to install. Everything uses screws and bolts. That compares to many types of steel and iron products that require professional welding work. If you want to see an install finished within hours, aluminum is a great fencing choice. For more information, contact an aluminum fencing company like Ornamental Design Ironworks Inc.