Aluminum Fencing vs Wrought Iron Fencing

Aluminum fences and wrought iron fences are similar in a large number of ways, from looks and styles to applications and more. However there are a number of differences that need to be accounted for when deciding which fencing option is appropriate for your project. In general aluminum fences are a lower maintenance fencing option, while wrought iron fences offer more stability. Below we will take a deeper look into the most prominent benefits, features, and differences of these fencing options.

Advantages of Aluminum Fencing

Powder coated aluminum fencing is an extremely versatile and low maintenance fence option, providing a number of benefits over other fencing materials. Aluminum fences are typically much cheaper than their wrought iron fence counterparts, while requiring less overall maintenance. With a powder coated aluminum fence you will not encounter the rusting, flaking, and necessary repainting required with a wrought iron fence. Aluminum fences also typically are available in a wider variety of styles and can offer a more modern look to your home. These fences are also much more lightweight and can be easily installed. Aluminum fences are an ideal solution for pool fences, or in areas where terrain is sloping or uneven.

One important factor to keep in mind with aluminum fences is that they do tend to have more flex than a traditional wrought iron fence. While the stability of these fences is great overall, if you are looking for an option with essentially no flex at all, wrought iron may be the choice for you.

Advantages of Wrought Iron Fencing

Wrought iron fencing is the premier heavy duty fencing option. This is the typical fence choice for high security areas due to the rigidity and weight of the fence. Wrought iron fences can also be highly customizable, allowing for creative and decorative fencing designs. This makes wrought iron a very prevalent type of fence in areas such as historic districts.

While wrought iron fencing has it’s upsides, it is a high maintenance fence. Wrought iron will rust over and flake over time, requiring it to be stripped and repainted. Wrought iron fences are also non-flexible, which can be a benefit in some situations, but also means the fence will have to be stepped if there is unevenness in the terrain.

Differences In Fence Maintenance

Maintenance and installation are the two areas where aluminum fencing really out shines wrought iron fencing. Aluminum fences are a much lower maintenance fencing option than a traditional wrought iron fence, due to the powder coated metal being rust free. While a wrought iron fence will chip and flake over time, leading to rust on the fence which requires stripping and repainting the fence, a powder coated aluminum fence will still be looking brand new for years to come. Combine that fact with the lightweight material of aluminum fences, the ease of installation, and the ability to install the fence on sloped or uneven terrain, and aluminum fences become the more popular, and practical, fencing solution for most customers. Keep in mind if you are looking for a low maintenance privacy fence, a vinyl fence may be a better solution for your needs.