An Honest Contractor Assessment by Mulholland Gates
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In this article, we will consider the “pros and cons” of aluminum fence.
It’s pretty frustrating to research a fence project. Seems simple when you begin, but there’s a surprising amount of things to know! “What’s more important, privacy or security?” “How do I know I am getting quality for the money?” “Does it make a difference if I buy from China or from the US?” “What should a homeowner about installers?” Here we will take up, “What material should I use?” This might be the most important question of all.
Hello! I’m Avi Ben David, the owner, and CEO of Mulholland Brand. I’m also in my family’s second generation of being involved in home improvement. I’ve been helping people specifically with fences and gates since 1994. My company has made thousands of gates and fences from all the conventional fence materials. We know what’s good about each one of these material as well as all of the drawbacks. We have hundreds of five-star reviews on Google and Yelp and other review sites that attest to our expertise.
You are in good hands.
In this article, we are going to discuss the pros and cons of aluminum. By the time you get through this article, you’ll have gained a lot of good knowledge about aluminum fencing, and this will be helpful in narrowing down your choices. You’re going to gain the confidence to help make subsequent decisions easier.
Now it’s best to be frank: I am a big advocate for aluminum. Aluminum is the core material that we work within our company. So, I lean in that direction. But, I don’t lean so far as to fall over! I can be objective about choosing fencing material and I’ll do my best to curb my enthusiasm for aluminum.
(Note: for easier reading, I will often use the word “fencing” as an embracing term to mean “gates and fences”.)
While aluminum solutions are amongst some of the newest products on the market, they are quickly becoming the most popular. Today we’ll outline some of the pros and cons of aluminum gates and fencing to help determine if this product is the best option for you and your home.
Aluminum is the most carefree, “get it and forget it” fencing material available. Unlike wood, it does not require re-painting or re-staining every few years. It also cannot rot or become infested with pests. Aluminum is not susceptible to rust like chain-link or wrought iron, so there is no worry of water damage. Plus, aluminum solutions are incredibly easy to clean, only needing a quick rinse with a hose or some warm soap and water for more intensive cleaning.
CON
: PrivacyWhat? Privacy is a pro and a con? How can that be?
There are two major categories of aluminum fence styles.
The traditional, most well-known aluminum fencing design does not provide much privacy. If you are looking for fencing that will completely block the view of your home from the street, consider more modern, contemporary styles. (We are talking about the ubiquitous “wrought iron look”) Because of this, privacy can often be a con when looking at traditional aluminum fencing designs.
Recently, though, there have been offerings for solid profiles in aluminum fences and gates. This newer style does provide privacy, hence it being a pro as well. Unfortunately, not many people have seen or even heard of this style.
Note that prices go up considerably for privacy fencing such as this, primarily because there is a lot more aluminum in them!
CON:
Sometimes Higher “Up Front” CostsAluminum is neither the most expensive fencing nor the least expensive. Iit can be that there are higher “upfront costs” if we are comparing it to the lowest cost alternatives.
We’ve compared aluminum fencing to wood fencing in another article on this site. At the time of this writing, we are looking at 4 ft x 8 ft panels of Eastern Cedar fencing for just less than $40 a panel. Contrasted with the very lowest price of aluminum panels of the lowest acceptability of quality for that size would be about $110 a panel. The installation costs for both should be similar.
The trade-off is, of course, by paying the lower amount, you get the property fenced less expensively. In return, there will be time and money spent in upkeep. Upkeep isn’t a problem with aluminum. If not deliberately or accidentally damaged, aluminum fencing can last a lifetime.
So, If you need to go as cheap as possible, then wood picket fencing might be a good fit for you. Get the best you can afford and do your best to maintain it right from the beginning.
Eastern White Cedar is lower maintenance wood and is a good choice for a lower cost fence or gate. There normally isn’t a lot of trouble with it cracking or splitting. The surface sands to a nice smooth finish. This wood doesn’t tend to shrink or expand so much as other soft woods. It is also pretty lightweight, too.
To get the longest life from this material, you will need to prime and paint it or stain and seal. Additionally, periodic treatment, as often as once or twice a year, is required, depending on the climate in your area.
Cedar holds off the weather and insects better than most wood choices and it’s at the lower end in terms of cost for wood picket fencing.
The best you can do with the least expensive wood fencing is to see that it is installed correctly, paint it well, and keep your sprinklers off of it. Then paint or seal it again every year.
If you are tight on money and you are concerned about home security, I think it is often good sense to fence the property as best you can. Commit to maintaining it as you put your finances in order to eventually buy higher quality, lower maintenance fencing.
Low-maintenance fencing is a very new thing. People have been fencing their properties for thousands of years with very high-maintenance materials as that was all that was available.
And inexpensive wood can still be used to make beautiful fencing that helps in keeping you and your family safe. If you need a fence, and the only choice is “least expensive or nothing at all”, get the least expensive and secure your family and property.
Note that there is a wide range of costs for fencing and gates made from any material.
In aluminum, the main variations in cost are from the thickness of the aluminum, the amount of aluminum used, the amount of customization, and the quality of the finish.
In wood fencing, the variations in price are influenced by the species of wood, the grade of the wood, the amount of wood used, the amount of wood used, and the quality of the finish.
The price of steel fencing (popularly known and marketed as “iron fencing”) is primarily influenced by the amount of steel used in the fabrication, and the finish. Steel of even the highest quality is going to rust if not finished well and retouched or repainted often.
Aluminum is the most cost-efficient material regarding metal options, ringing in at much cheaper than steel and many of the wood varieties. Cost-wise, only fencing made from the lesser expensive woods can compete, but then any price advantage is gone when ongoing maintenance costs are factored in, even over a period of just a few years.
See examples of low-cost wood, steel (iron), and aluminum fencing below. Note that in all cases there is sparing use of the fence material.
Low-priced aluminum
Inexpensive wood
cheap steel fence
Examples of higher cost wood, steel (iron), and aluminum fencing. Note that in all cases there is more use of the fencing material. This results in a higher cost.
More expensive aluminum
Expensive Wood
Expensive steel (iron)
CON:
For Industrial Uses, Military, or High-Traffic AreasIf you’ve got property on a busy street where the traffic is flying by, steel is often a better choice to protect your property due to its sheer brutal strength.
That’s not always the case, as aluminum can be alloyed with other materials so as to be super strong as well. The US military even made tanks from aluminum alloys.
However, the strongest steel alloy is capable of stopping more lateral force than the strongest aluminum alloy. When you are in heavy industrial, high vehicular areas, needing to defend a government building from attack, etc., Steel will be the more readily available and the less expensive option.
From aluminum.org:
Aluminum is about one-third the weight of steel, meaning parts can be made thicker and stronger while still reducing weight in vehicles and other applications. Depending on the alloy and processing technique used, pound for pound aluminum can be forged to be just as strong if not stronger than some steel.
How does this benefit you?
Lesser cost in transportation due to lower weight.
Lower weight means less manpower in the installation, and that means lower cost and faster installs.
The heavier weight of steel and wood fencing and gates means more frequent adjustments are necessary.
CON
: Versatile & DecorativeThere are certain things that you can do in wood that you can’t do in aluminum.
We have been able to bring over the look of any steel gate into an aluminum fence or gate. In comparison to steel, I’d say that there is an even match. But wood is a different story.
There are manufacturers who have done very well with using a process called sublimation to very closely copy the look of wood. You can get fencing and gates that look just like wood – even from close up.
But when you touch it, you’ll know the difference. Aluminum doesn’t feel at all like wood.
Two other tiny differences: aluminum does not sound or smell like wood! Rain is a good example of this. When rain hits a wood fence, it’s partly absorbed into the wood, and partly deflected by it. This makes for a softer sound. When rain hits an aluminum fence, none of it is absorbed. It’s going to make a different sound. It will “ping”! (With wood it will “pong”!)
Someone actually made a video for Youtube called: “Calming Rain Hitting Aluminum Roof to Help Sleep”. Sounds nice enough to me!
I think for the city and small-town people, aluminum gives you all the diversity you could want in terms of style.
But if you are a rural person, there’s a lot to be said for the sight, sound, and smell of a wood fence. Ask any cowboy!
When it comes to gates and fencing, security is the number one priority that comes to mind, but that doesn’t mean there needs to be a sacrifice of your own personal style.
Many materials, such as iron and wood, can only be customized to a certain point due to their rigid materials.
Fence manufacturers can’t customize wood or iron to the extent that we can customize aluminum. Aluminum is highly malleable during the production process. Fabricators can create a wide variety of unique designs using aluminum.
Aluminum can also be made to replicate wood staining, finished with any color, and be embedded with glass for an even more unique look. Almost any design imaginable can be replicated with an aluminum solution.
Aluminum installations are generally the easiest and most simple to accomplish due to the material’s light weight.
Contractors install aluminum fencing more quickly than wood or steel fencing. Less experienced installers have a much easier time installing aluminum/
Do you have a sloped property? Then aluminum is the best material. There are styles that are especially useful on sloped properties where the incline of the fence can be adjusted to give a smooth appearance.
Since aluminum is extremely durable and requires no maintenance, we can make aluminum fence and gates from recycled components, allowing you to have a cleaner impact on the planet.
Overall, aluminum solutions have many great benefits to fit any home or need.
So, that’s the way I’ve seen it in my experience: aluminum has got a lot more that is “right” about it than it has that is “wrong” about it. And those things that it’s got “wrong” won’t be for most people any real big deal.
Aluminum is an excellent fence material due to its low-maintenance. Particularly in traditional styles, your “up-front” cost for deciding to get an aluminum fence installation is lower than or competitive to wood and steel. Aluminum is lightweight and has a high strength-to-weight ratio; that makes it generally easier to install than wood or steel. Due to this, they also are less likely to need adjustments later on. You can get aluminum fences and gates in all sorts of styles, colors, grades, and textures.
Aluminum fence material is typically between 85-95% recycled post-consumer waste. We are not impacting the environment nearly as much as if we chose to work with wood.
Aluminum may not be the choice for you if you are on the tiniest of budgets. In that situation, the best choice for you to start with is wood. Just know that you’ve got to keep an eye on it and you have to be willing to do the work to keep it from deteriorating away. You might also prefer wood if you are a completely rustic setting and want everything to be in keeping with that, and you even want that sound of wood as the rain falls on it.
Also, if you are wanting to fence property that potentially has to be able to stand up to attack or a tremendous amount of force, steel may be the better option.
We install fences and gates made from all the usual materials. Aluminum is excellent for a lot of people, particularly people who don’t want to be bothered with upkeep. But there are benefits with wood and steel, and we know some people who really love keeping things up around the home.
What’s the right material for you? If you still have questions, we are always happy to help. Give us a call at (818) 639-3820, or complete this form and one of our team members will be happy to provide more answers. We look forward to hearing from you!
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At a Glance
Have you ever thought about the importance of the right fence and gate for your home? Choosing the right fence and gate is a critical decision for homeowners. It’s not just about aesthetics, although that’s certainly important. It’s also about security, privacy, and even property value. The right fence can deter unwanted visitors, provide a safe space for children and pets, and add to the curb appeal of your home. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration of a variety of factors, including materials, design, cost, and maintenance requirements.
Now, let’s delve into the world of aluminum fences and gates. What makes aluminum a popular choice among homeowners? And what are some potential drawbacks you should be aware of? This article aims to give you a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum fences and gates. By the end of it, you’ll be well-equipped to decide if aluminum is the right choice for your home.
Aluminum fences and gates are fencing materials made from aluminum, a lightweight, durable metal. These types of fences and gates are often used for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes due to their versatility and durability. They come in various designs, from simple, minimalist styles to more elaborate, ornate designs. One of the unique features of aluminum fences and gates is their ability to mimic other materials, such as wrought iron or wood, giving homeowners a wide range of aesthetic options without sacrificing the benefits of aluminum.
Learn more: The Neighborly Way: Understanding Fence Etiquette
Durability and Strength
One of the significant advantages of aluminum fences and gates is their resistance to rust and corrosion. Unlike iron, which can rust over time when exposed to the elements, aluminum is naturally resistant to rust. This means that your aluminum fence and gate will maintain their appearance and strength for many years, even in harsh weather conditions. Isn’t it reassuring to know that rain or snow won’t compromise the integrity of your fence?
When it comes to longevity, aluminum fences and gates outshine many other materials. Their resistance to rust and corrosion contributes to their long lifespan. Plus, aluminum doesn’t rot or decay like wood, nor does it become brittle with age like some plastics. With an aluminum fence and gate, you’re investing in a product that’s built to last.
Low Maintenance
Who wants to spend their weekends maintaining their fence and gate? One of the considerable benefits of aluminum fences and gates is their low maintenance requirements. They are easy to clean, usually needing only a rinse with a garden hose to remove dirt and debris. There’s no need for any special cleaners or equipment. And since they resist rust and corrosion, there’s no need for regular treatments to keep them in good condition.
Unlike wood fences, which need regular painting or staining to maintain their appearance and protect against rot and pests, aluminum fences and gates require no such maintenance. The color of your aluminum fence and gate is baked into the material during manufacturing, meaning it won’t peel, chip, or fade over time. This not only saves you time and effort but also makes aluminum fences and gates a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Versatility and Customization Options
Just like a chameleon can change its colors to suit its environment, aluminum fences and gates can adapt to match your style and needs. Whether you prefer something simple and modern or something ornate and traditional, there’s an aluminum design out there for you. And with a wide range of colors available, you can choose a hue that complements your home and landscape perfectly. Who said fences and gates had to be boring?
Every home and every yard is unique. So why settle for a one-size-fits-all solution? Aluminum fences and gates can be easily modified or adjusted to fit any space or landscape. Whether you have a small urban yard or a sprawling rural property, you can design an aluminum fence and gate that fits perfectly. It’s like having a custom-tailored suit, but for your yard.
Affordability
Let’s talk about money. We all want to make smart investments, right? Well, when it comes to fencing materials, aluminum is a cost-effective choice. It offers the elegance and durability of wrought iron but without the hefty price tag. It’s like getting a luxury car for the price of a compact – who wouldn’t want that deal?
But the savings don’t stop at the purchase price. Aluminum fences and gates also offer lower installation and maintenance costs compared to other materials. Since they’re lightweight and easy to install, you’ll save on labor costs. And because they require minimal maintenance, you’ll continue to save money year after year.
Learn more: The Impact of Weather on Fencing
Limited Privacy
Have you ever tried to keep a secret in a room full of people? It’s not easy, right? That’s a bit like trying to achieve full privacy with an aluminum fence. These fences typically have gaps between the pickets, which means they’re not the best at keeping prying eyes out. It’s like having curtains with a few slits – you’re covered, but not completely.
Now, you might think, “I’ll just add some extra measures for privacy.” That’s possible, but remember, it’s an added step. You might need to invest in privacy screens or grow tall plants or hedges alongside the fence. It’s like buying a car and then realizing you need to pay extra for air conditioning – it’s doable, but it would be nice if it was included from the start.
Less Security
Imagine you’re choosing a bodyguard. Would you go for the lightweight contender or the heavyweight champ? When it comes to security, aluminum is the lighter contender. It’s less sturdy compared to materials like steel, which could make a difference if security is a top priority for you. It’s like choosing a padlock over a vault – both can offer protection, but one is undoubtedly stronger.
Following from the previous point, an aluminum fence may not provide the same level of protection against intruders that a more robust material would. It’s a bit like having a watchdog versus a guard dog – both may deter intruders, but one poses a more substantial threat.
Not Suitable for All Climates
Picture this: you’re planning a picnic. Would you choose a windy hilltop or a calm park? Just like you’d choose the park for a more enjoyable time, you should choose a fencing material that suits your climate. In areas with extreme weather conditions, aluminum may not be the best choice. It’s like wearing a raincoat in a snowstorm – it helps, but there are better options.
Aluminum fences can be like a feather in the wind during strong winds or heavy impacts – they can get damaged quite easily. So, if you live in an area prone to severe weather, you might want to think twice. It’s like using an umbrella in a hurricane – it’s just not the right tool for the job.
So, what have we learned about aluminum fences and gates? On the one hand, they’re durable, easy to maintain, versatile, and cost-effective. It’s like getting a reliable, low-maintenance car that can take on any road and doesn’t break the bank. But on the other hand, they may not offer the privacy or security you need, and they might not be the best choice for all climates. It’s like that same car doesn’t have tinted windows, isn’t as sturdy as some other models, and struggles in severe weather.
Choosing the right fence and gate material is like choosing the right home – it depends on your needs, preferences, and circumstances. Do you value privacy above all else? Do you live in an area with harsh weather conditions? Is your budget tight? These are all factors to consider when deciding whether aluminum is the right material for you.
Chat with professionals before making a final decision. They can offer expert advice tailored to your specific situation and help you weigh all the factors. Think of them as your personal guide on this journey – they’re there to make sure you find the perfect fence and gate for your home.
Learn more: The Science of Galvanization: Enhancing The Durability of Iron and Steel Fences
Are you still unsure if aluminum is the right choice for you? Don’t worry, there are other options out there. One alternative worth considering is iron fencing. Iron fences are sturdy, durable, and offer excellent security and privacy. It’s like swapping that lightweight car for a heavy-duty truck – it’s built to withstand anything and keeps everything safely inside. Plus, with a variety of styles and designs available, you can find an iron fence that matches your aesthetic perfectly.
Are you ready to find the perfect fence and gate for your home? Look no further than Irish Iron. As the go-to Iron Fence installer in Sacramento and surrounding areas, we have the experience, expertise, and passion to help you make the right choice. We’re like your personal fence and gate tailor – we’ll create a solution that fits your needs perfectly. Don’t wait, contact Irish Iron today for your fencing needs. Because when it comes to fences and gates, we’re the best in the business.
Are Aluminum Fences and Gates Easy to Maintain?
Yes, they are. Aluminum fences and gates are made from high-strength material that is resistant to rust and corrosion. This means they require little maintenance beyond the occasional cleaning with a garden hose to remove dirt and dust.
Can Aluminum Fences Be Used Around Pools or Other Areas?
Absolutely! Aluminum fences are versatile and can be installed around pools, along backyards, or in front of homes. They’re a great choice for pool enclosures because they withstand moisture and chemicals better than many other materials.
Are Aluminum Fences Safe for Pets?
Yes, aluminum fences can be safe for pets. However, the safety depends on the design of the fence and the size of your pet. For smaller pets, ensure the pickets are close enough together to prevent them from slipping through.
Is Installing an Aluminum Fence Difficult?
While installing an aluminum fence requires some DIY know-how, it’s not overly difficult. However, if you’re not comfortable with the installation process, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure it’s done correctly.
Can I Customize My Aluminum Fence and Gate?
Yes, you can. Aluminum fences and gates come in a wide range of styles, designs, and colors. You can also customize the height and picket spacing to fit your specific needs and preferences.
How Durable Are Aluminum Fences and Gates?
Aluminum fences and gates are highly durable. They are made from high-strength material that is resistant to rust, corrosion, and damage from UV rays. However, they may not be as sturdy as fences made from heavier materials like iron or steel.
Do Aluminum Fences Provide Enough Privacy?
Aluminum fences typically have gaps between the pickets, which can limit privacy.
Are Aluminum Fences and Gates Affordable?
Aluminum fences and gates are generally more cost-effective than those made from wrought iron or steel. They are also cheaper to install and maintain, making them a great choice for homeowners on a budget.
Are Aluminum Fences Suitable for All Climates?
Aluminum fences can withstand most weather conditions. However, they may not be the best choice for areas with extreme weather, as they can be damaged by strong winds or heavy impacts.
Can Aluminum Gates Accommodate Vehicles?
Yes, aluminum gates can be designed to accommodate vehicles. Drive gates, estate gates, roll gates, and cantilever gates are all available options. However, ensure that the gate is wide enough for your vehicle and installed correctly to prevent any issues.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of garden decoration aluminum casting. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.