Driving around your neighborhood, you may have noticed the different fencing options. While wood is traditionally the most popular fencing material, you may have noticed an uptick in metal fences. Maybe you think it’s time you should get a metal fence, too! Having a metal fence can benefit your home. Not only will it add texture to the outside of your home, but it can also be a helpful deterrent for intruders and animals.
Even if you live in an area where wood fences are common, a metal fence may be a great option for you. If you have small yards, a metal fence will give you the advantage of having something visible and protective, but also keep your yard as open as possible.
Read on for more on the history of metal fences, as well as our top reasons why you need to get a metal fence for your property!
In the earliest days of our country, only the wealthiest could afford to import wrought ironwork for their properties. However, by the early 1800s, blacksmithing grew domestically and ornamental iron fencing became more accessible. When you picture the traditional wrought-iron fence, you’re probably envisioning the style that peaked in popularity during the Victorian era. That’s when foundries started casting and mass-producing elaborate pickets, posts, and scroll details making them more widely available.
Nowadays, most metal fences are made of aluminum or steel, even if they’re designed to look like traditional wrought iron. Even wrought iron’s classic glossy-black paint has been upgraded to a longer-lasting, multistep powder-coating process that greatly reduces maintenance. Along with the classic steel, many homeowners opt for aluminum or chain-link fencing. We’ll break down the top 5 reasons for each of these metal fence options.
The main reason families install fencing around their homes is for security. But the fence isn’t to prevent intruders, but rather to stop people and pets from leaving! If you have young children or pets, this is likely a concern for you.
When you install a chain-link fence, you can feel secure knowing that your children and pets can play outside safely and securely. Chain link is a great choice, especially versus wrought iron fencing, which could allow smaller animals to squeeze through.
Chain link fencing is very affordable, especially when you compare it to the cost of other types of fencing. Rather than using lots of material, a chain link fence uses thin wires crossed over to form a strong unit. By cutting down on material costs, these fences are much more affordable. Vinyl, wood, and wrought iron are considerably pricier, making chain link fencing a great choice for the savvy buyer.
Chain link fences can be installed far quicker than wrought iron or even vinyl fencing, meaning installation is typically less expensive. Additionally, should you need to replace your fence decades down the line, it is quick and simple. No matter how your fence got damaged (which is rare), it typically takes just minutes to replace individual sections.
Traditional fencing made out of wood requires a significant amount of maintenance. That’s because as a natural material, wood will eventually rot, and its paint will peel. Chain link fencing is made out of metal and coated with a powder to keep water out. Thus, it’s protected from rusting. This barrier means that your chain link fence is more like a manmade material than a natural metal, requiring practically no maintenance of any kind.
Chain link fencing can last for years because it’s incredibly sturdy and resistant to both damage and harsh weather conditions. While natural fences made out of wood or bamboo tend to degrade as they age, a metal fence that is protected using a powder or paint layer should stand the test of time. When you consider the long lifespan of a chain-link fence, the cost per year goes down considerably. Thus, making it an even more affordable investment in your home.
Both chain link and wrought iron fences are available in a limited number of styles. Conversely, aluminum fencing can look classical or modern, understated or ornamental. Aluminum fencing adapts easily to changes in the landscape, allowing property owners to avoid gaps and unusual transitions. This highly customizable material is a great way to make a statement with your fence.
Wrought iron fencing is some of the most expensive on the market. And while chain-link fencing is relatively cheap, it’s not as visually appealing. Not only is aluminum fencing less expensive than the wrought iron it often mimics, but the lifetime cost of ownership is lower, as well.
Unlike wrought iron fencing which can rust and corrode, aluminum fencing is largely impervious to the elements. The chemical composition of aluminum resists rust Plus it won’t fade in the sun or rot over time!
Since aluminum does not rot, rust, or fade, you will likely perform little to no maintenance over the lifetime of the fence. Additionally, it stands up well to high winds, strong storms, and blowing debris, typically without requiring touch-ups or repairs.
Remember all those aluminum cans you dutifully toss into the recycling bin? Many of them are reused to produce aluminum fencing. That makes this one of the most sustainable fencing materials available. For those who are looking for sustainable options for their home, aluminum fencing is a brilliant choice.
A steel fence can stand up to the elements and will last for years and years. These fences are very resistant to rust and retain their attractive looks for a long time. Their strength makes them great for safety and security, too.
Steel fences will make your property look more attractive by adding authority and stateliness. Wrought iron fences and gates are beautiful and add to the overall aesthetic of any home or business.
One of the most important benefits of a steel fence is how easy it is to include an automatic gate. You get the protection and peace of mind of a fully fenced-in property, plus the convenience of automation. More and more people are choosing automatic gates for this very reason. They want to keep their property safe while retaining the ease of coming/going with the push of a button.
Once a steel fence has been installed, there’s very little maintenance needed. They stand up to wind, rain, snow, hail, and pretty much anything else. And unlike wood, there’s no reason to worry about rotting or insects. In fact, there is no need to paint or stain these fences either.
If you plan on selling your home or property anytime soon, a steel fence will be a bonus to many potential buyers. Especially if it includes an upgraded automatic gate! It adds curb appeal and gives a better first impression of your home or property.
As a homeowner, landowner, or business owner, you’ll naturally want to increase the value of your house, protect it, and keep it looking great. As you can see from the lists above, metal fencing has certain undeniably attractive qualities. Metal fencing is a popular choice due to its ease of maintenance and appealing, modern appearance. Its strong, robust construction provides stability, durability, and an attractive appearance to your property that outlasts any other form of fencing. Reach out to Bravo Fence Company today to get a metal fence for your property.
Why should I consider a metal fence for my property?
Metal fences, whether chain link, aluminum, or steel, offer various benefits, including enhanced security, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They can also be a practical choice for those with small yards who want a visible yet open fencing option.
What is the history of metal fences?
Initially, only the wealthy could afford wrought iron fences, but by the 1800s, domestic blacksmithing made ornamental iron fencing more accessible. Nowadays, most metal fences are made of aluminum or steel, with improved coatings for reduced maintenance.
What are the advantages of chain link fencing?
Chain link fences provide security, affordability, easy installation, low maintenance, and durability. They are an excellent choice for families with children or pets due to their safety features and cost-effectiveness.
Why choose aluminum fencing?
Aluminum fencing is versatile, cost-effective, strong, durable, and environmentally friendly. It offers a wide range of styles, is less expensive than wrought iron, and requires minimal maintenance over its lifetime.
What makes steel fencing a good option?
Steel fences are challenging, heavy-duty, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to pair with automatic gates. They require low maintenance, withstand various weather conditions, and can increase the property’s value, making them an attractive choice for both security and visual appeal.
Are metal fences suitable for small yards?
Yes, metal fences, especially chain links, and aluminum, are ideal for small yards. They provide visibility and protection while keeping the yard open, making them a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice.
How do metal fences compare to traditional wood fencing in terms of maintenance?
Metal fences, such as chain links, aluminum, and steel, generally require less maintenance than traditional wood fencing. They are resistant to rust, rot, and fading, ensuring a longer lifespan with minimal upkeep.
Can I install an automatic gate with a metal fence?
Yes, metal fences, particularly steel, are well-suited for automatic gates. Adding an automatic gate enhances security and convenience, allowing for easy entry and exit with the push of a button.
Metal fences have a long history as an upscale alternative to historically more affordable wood fences. When most people think of metal fencing, they think of wrought iron. However, most metal fencing today is made of steel or aluminum, which is much easier to fabricate, much lighter than wrought iron, and much more cost-effective. Wrought iron is, by definition, handmade, so the costs can be prohibitive. Steel and aluminum fencing can be prefabricated, and they are light enough to be fashioned into panels. That makes them much more cost-effective to produce and to install. If you are ready to install a metal fence, you may be wondering which type of fence is ideal for you. This guide will outline the history and different kinds of metal fencing to help you decide what is best for your home or business.
The first ornamental metal fences were made of wrought iron. Wrought refers to metal that is beaten out or shaped by hammering, requiring extensive labor by a skilled blacksmith. In the Colonial period, only the wealthiest Americans could afford wrought iron because it had to be hand fabricated in England and shipped to the colonies. However, in the early nineteenth century, local factories began to produce cast iron fencing that retained the look of wrought iron but brought this kind of ornamental fencing within reach of many more Americans. However, the cast-iron fence pieces were still extremely heavy and complicated to install.
Today, most ornamental metal fencing is made of tubular steel or aluminum. The pieces can be machined in a factory and installed on site. Because the metals are lighter and the posts, rails, and pickets are hollow, tubular steel and aluminum can be sold as complete panels, which are much more efficient to install. The lower production and labor costs make ornamental steel and aluminum viable alternatives to other materials without driving costs through the roof.
Tubular steel and aluminum fences can also be shipped with the rails, posts, and pickets disassembled, making them much easier to transport. The components are then assembled onsite with fasteners. Some homeowners combine tubular steel or aluminum fencing with cast iron ornaments for a more traditional look since cast iron allows greater detail than machined steel or aluminum.
Tubular steel is made to mimic the look of traditional wrought iron. It is produced from metal sheets that are bent into posts, pickets, and rails. The pieces are coated with a rust-proof primer and then painted. Most homeowners paint their tubular steel fences shiny black to mirror the traditional look of wrought iron. However, it can be painted practically any color to match your personal design.
Tubular steel comes standard with 5/8-inch hollow pickets to match the style of wrought iron. Look for tubular steel fencing with hidden fasteners. The more hidden the fasteners are, the more solid the whole fence will look.
Steel, like cast iron, is an alloy of iron and carbon with other elements, so it can still rust. But modern tubular steel metal fences are treated with coatings that prevent rust. If the coating is scratched, it can expose the metal to rust, but the repairs are simple. To repair a scratched or even slightly rusted area of steel fence, start by sanding down the area to remove any rust or loose paint. Sand all the way down to the bare metal. Next, paint over that area with a rust-inhibiting metal primer. Finally, cover the primer with paint to match the rest of the fence.
An 8-foot long section of 4-foot tall tubular steel fence can weigh 50 pounds, making it challenging to install yourself. If you want the strength of steel, your best bet is to hire professionals like Bravo Fence Company. We have the right tools to install tubular steel fencing that looks like wrought iron at a fraction of the cost. To find out more and get a quote, contact Bravo Fence Company.
Tubular aluminum has many of the same features as tubular steel, but with several advantages. One significant advantage of tubular aluminum has to do with weight. While an 8-foot section of 4-foot tall steel fencing can weigh 50 pounds, a 6-foot section of aluminum weighs just 11 pounds. However, because aluminum is not as strong as steel, it’s not practical to build sections longer than 6 feet, compared to 8 feet for steel. So an aluminum fence needs more posts than a steel fence. Each post requires digging a pit and installing a cement footing. Over a long distance, the difference between 8-foot and 6-foot sections can mean quite a few more posts to install.
The second advantage of aluminum over steel is aluminum’s nearly nonexistent maintenance. Aluminum is not an iron alloy, and so it cannot rust. It is susceptible to some corrosion, but with a standard powder coating, aluminum requires almost no maintenance.
While tubular steel and aluminum are great materials for an average ornamental fence, they still have some limitations compared to wrought (or cast) iron. The most significant difference is the level of detail possible in ornamentations. Tubular steel and aluminum allow for a variety of finials and some level of ornamentation in the shapes of the fence. But intricate loops, scrolling, and braiding are difficult to achieve with hollow posts, rails, and pickets.
One alternative that allows for more detailed ornamentation is solid steel. Solid steel is extremely heavy and requires special machinery to hoist into place. It is also significantly more expensive than hollow steel. But it allows for designs that mimic almost anything possible with traditional wrought iron.
Another limitation of tubular steel and aluminum is its strength as security fencing. Steel is stronger than aluminum, but because they are hollow, neither one is as strong as solid metal. For added strength, some homeowners and commercial properties select tubular steel with thicker walls. But nothing beats the strength of solid steel. For high-security applications, solid steel is still the best option.
Whether you choose steel or aluminum, proper installation is critical. If you want the look of real wrought iron—and who doesn’t—you need to install your metal fence perfectly. Hiding fasteners, getting every edge perfectly straight and lined up, and racking or stepping for sloped surfaces all make a huge difference. So if you are ready to install the ornamental metal fence of your dreams, it’s time to contact Bravo Fence Company. We have the experience and expertise to install the best metal fences with the best results.