A new fence can be just what your yard needs to finish its
look or secure your property. However, while wood and vinyl are becoming more
popular, many people still love the traditional look of old iron fences.
Wrought iron is still the most desired for its excellent durability, but low
costs make aluminum an attractive option too.
If you don't know what material you need for your next
fence, learn more about wrought iron versus aluminum fencing in the following
categories.
Cost
If you're looking for the most affordable option, aluminum
fences may be the better option. On average, an ornamental aluminum fence will
cost $8 to $30 per
linear foot just for the materials. Professional installation, however, is
often recommended for fences, which can boost the overall price to $12 to $125
per linear foot.
For a similar ornamental wrought iron fence, you'll pay
anywhere between $24 and $27 per linear foot for materials. Adding professional
installation adds another $600 to $1,300 or more, depending on the size and
complexity of the yard.
Maintenance
Both wrought iron and aluminum fences don't require as much
maintenance as other materials. Unlike wood, there is no risk of rot or pests,
and plant matter won't stain either iron or aluminum.
Wrought iron, however, can be prone to rust if the external
powder coating is scratched. Aluminum doesn't rust even if scratches occur.
Durability
When it comes to durability, however, wrought iron
definitely has aluminum beat. Wrought iron is much stronger than aluminum,
which reduces damage. Even though an aluminum fence won't rust, scratches and
dents can make it lose its beauty. The durability of wrought iron also means
you may have to pay for repairs less often than with an aluminum fence.
Similarly, thanks to its durability, wrought iron lasts
longer than aluminum. As a result, while the initial investment may cost more
than an aluminum installation, you may actually save money in the long run with
a wrought iron fence, especially if you keep it well maintained.
Aesthetics
Both wrought iron fences and aluminum fences have a unique beauty
that can't be captured with other materials, but many people believe they can
only work in historical style homes. While the beautiful arcs and curves of a
traditional wrought iron or aluminum fence can be ideal for Colonial,
Victorian, and other traditionally-styled homes, these materials can also be
used for other types of homes.
For example, if you have a more contemporary style home, but
you want wrought iron or aluminum, avoid the traditional style with arcs and
curves and stick with clean straight lines.
Security
Ornamental wrought iron and aluminum fences are excellent
for security. They are usually too tall to climb over, and even if someone
tried, the top of the fence is often sharp. These security measures keep
intruders out of your yard and kids inside the yard. Small animals, however,
can easily pass through the fence, which makes them a poor choice to keep in
small dogs or keep out other animals.
Both wrought iron and aluminum fences are harder for an
intruder to destroy in order to get into your yard. With an old wood fence, an
intruder may be able to simply kick down a portion of the fence, but with iron
or aluminum, they'd need a loud metal cutter.
Plus, you can easily spot someone trying to climb over the
fence because of the gaps between the iron or aluminum posts.
Similarly, if someone does manage to trespass, your neighbors can easily
see them through the fence.
Both wrought iron and aluminum create beautiful fences. Iron
is more expensive to initially install, but the durability may save you money
in the long run. If you would like to know more about wrought iron fences
versus other fencing options, contact us
at
Capitol City Iron Works today.
