If you love the look of classic black fencing and would like this type of fence for your own property, you have a decision to make. Should you go with wrought iron, the traditional choice for this style of fence? Or should you go with aluminum, the modern material used to mimic old-fashioned iron fencing?
Both aluminum and iron have their pros and cons, so deciding which one is best for you is really a very personal decision. Here's a look at how the two fencing types compare when it comes to durability, maintenance, style, security and cost.
Iron is a very hard, incredibly durable material. It's extremely unlikely that a wrought iron fence will ever suffer serious damage, even if a tree limb falls on it or you bump into it with a lawnmower. Aluminum, though sufficiently sturdy for most residential uses, is a much softer metal. It's more likely to bend or develop dings from impact or pressure.
Though wrought iron is impervious to structural damage from tree branches and machinery, it does have one weakness: it rusts. Rust will eventually eat through the fence if you don't do anything about it, so you will need to paint the fence periodically to reduce direct contact between the metal and the air. Whether you do this on your own or hire a painting company to treat the fence, it will cost you in both time and money.
Aluminum fencing requires significantly less maintenance than wrought iron. Aluminum does not rust, and you never have to paint it. It's easy to clean; you can just spray it off with the hose. If part of your aluminum fence becomes bent or damaged, your fencing company can repair it easily since aluminum is lightweight and easy to shape.
Wrought iron fencing does lend a classic, stately style to your landscape. But only a true fencing expert will really notice the difference between a wrought iron and an aluminum fence.
If you want a more uniquely styled fence, such as one that features curved rails or unique flourishes at the tops of posts, you might be better off with aluminum. It is easier to shape and bend than iron, so you'll have a bit more flexibility when it comes to customizing the fence's appearance. If you choose iron, you'll have to settle for a simpler design.
It would be nigh impossible to find a more secure fencing material than wrought iron. The bars are nearly impossible to cut through, so as long as you choose a style where the bars are close together, you won't have to worry about anyone sneaking through the fence.
Aluminum fences are a bit less secure, as someone could bend the bars and squeeze through them if desperate. Of course, you can fit both types of fences with pointed posts to keep anyone from climbing over.
Iron is more expensive than aluminum, so you'll pay more for an iron fence. Since iron is so heavy, it is also harder to install, so your installation costs will typically be higher than for an aluminum fence of a similar size and style.
If you really want the security, durability and authenticity that a wrought iron fence offers, then it may be worth the higher price tag. On the other hand, if you mostly care about looks and have a limited budget, aluminum fencing can provide exceptional beauty without breaking the bank.
Choosing between a wrought iron fence and an aluminum one is not easy. If you need a little more guidance, contact
AAA Fence LLC. We'll be happy to discuss our numerous fence style options with you and help you decide on the material best suited to your needs.
