Metal Fencing

If you're like most homeowners, your first thought for your new fence is probably wood. There's a lot to be said for wood fencing—the warmth of its appearance, its classic look—but it also has its limitations. Wood is expensive, needs maintenance, and can attract termites and other pests. Metal fencing is an excellent fencing alternative that avoids these problems. Not only is metal fencing a low-maintenance, inexpensive fencing material, fencing design is making these fences increasingly decorative. Metal privacy fencing can come in the form of closely mounted rails or the placement of vines, shrubs, or plants entwined in the fence spacing. Ornamental metal fencing can also achieve a higher degree of detail than wood fencing.

Metal Fencing Options
Wrought iron and aluminum are the two major types of metal fencing. Wrought iron is the classic metal fence. It's custom-made and more expensive. Although rust can be a problem for wrought iron fences, maintenance should still be considerably less than wood fencing and you can galvanize the metal to prevent rust and discoloration.

Aluminum is cheaper than its wrought iron counterpart and also more versatile. Unlike wrought iron, aluminum won't rust. This should be an important consideration if you live in a wetter climate or if your fence is for your pool surrounds. For colored fencing, aluminum should also be your metal of choice.

Consider it this way: wrought iron is best for an ornamental fence, aluminum is best for a decorative fence. The difference may be blurry but is essentially one of style. Wrought iron says stately elegance. Aluminum says casual and neighborly.

Metal Fence Design
More than just choosing a metal and making it pretty, you will also need to choose a fence design. Chain link is a cheap option for a functional fence, but many homeowners don't like the appearance of a chain link fence. Wire gauge is an important factor for the chain link fence. Too small a gauge and your fence may not stand up to the abuse of a strong storm. Too large a gauge and you're not spending your money wisely.

Post and rail fencing tends to be have a more pleasing appearance, but also tends to be more expensive. Rail thickness and spacing will influence cost, appearance, and what the function of your fence will be. Privacy fencing, security fencing, and decorative fencing all require different fence design.

Metal Fence Installation
You may be thinking of attempting your own metal fence installation. It's not that it can't be done, but a fence contractor will bring added value to your fencing installation. Not only will he or she be able to advise you on your choice of metal fencing, a contractor can also tailor the installation for factors such as zoning laws, permits, soil, and climate as well as your budget and your specific fencing needs. Most ornamental fencing will also require a contractor for specialized metalworking. If you're going to take the project on yourself, make sure you take the time to understand more than just the system of affixing metal rails and posts.

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