Whether you have a large yard in the country or a tiny plot of land in the city, metal fencing can enhance the look of your whole house. Aside from increasing your home’s curb appeal, the right fence can even increase the value of your house.
However, finding the perfect metal fence from your home can be a challenge. From choosing the right material to factoring into installation costs, it’s not easy to find the perfect fence for you.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide, to help you go about buying the perfect decorative metal fence.
Keep reading to learn all of the qualities you’ll want to consider when buying a new metal fence.
Image by PIRO4D
The Right Material
Almost all metal fences are stylish, long-lasting, and durable. However, the materials that you can choose to construct your metal fence with have different advantages.
Let’s take a look at three of the most popular types of materials.
Steel Fences
Steel fences are diverse and have a category of their own. However, one of the most popular types is galvanized steel.
Often seen in the form of chain-link fences, galvanized steel is strong, durable, and versatile. Although chain link fences might not be the most aesthetically-pleasing fences, there are plenty of alternatives that let you appreciate the material in a different way.
In fact, manufacturers can shape steel so that it looks like luxurious wrought iron. This gives you all of the twists, scrolls, and curves that you would expect—all for a fraction of the cost.
Iron Fences
All it takes is a drive through an older or historic neighborhood in a city to come across endless rows of iron fences. Strong, durable, and above all, attractive, it’s no wonder that iron fences have been the go-to choice for many for decades.
Iron fences come in a ton of attractive designs that make them great for all homes and styles. It is, however, one of the more expensive options. You’ll also have to spend more time maintaining it than you would for other metal fences.
Aluminum Fences
In recent years, aluminum fences have become more and more popular, and it’s no wonder why. Aluminum is lightweight, easy to install, and much more affordable than other types of fencing.
Like steel and iron, aluminum is also versatile, meaning that you can shape it into many different styles.
Given that it’s a cheaper option, it won’t hold up as well as steel or iron, especially in extreme weather.
The Cost
For many homeowners, the cost of the fence is the most important factor. The three types of metal mentioned have very different price points.
In most cases, aluminum will be the cheapest option, and therefore the most susceptible to damage. Different types of steel will be more expensive, but also more durable. Wrought iron will be one of the most expensive options.
While it’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, remember that you might have to pay additional money for maintenance later on.
What Type of Picket Style You Want
Aside from considering the materials and cost, you’ll also have to decide on a picket style. Different picket styles can drastically change the look of your fence, so take your time and choose carefully.
Plain pickets are the standard option. These are simple bars that run from the top of the fence to the bottom. You can customize them a bit by choosing different picket widths, as well as changing up the spacing.
If you want a more elaborate look, you can throw in decorative elements. Spears, hoops, and balls are all popular picket-style choices. A quality fencing company will be able to advise you on which options are best suited for your yard and home.
What the Installation Process Looks Like
It’s worth figuring out what the installation process for the metal fence type you’re considering looks like.
The installation of some materials, like wrought iron, is taxing and complicated. Aside from requiring large amounts of labor, the company may also have to pour concrete or dig up your yard a bit to get everything in.
On the other hand, other materials such as aluminum are much easier to install. In some cases, these fences even come in the form of kits, ensuring that installation is a breeze.
Fencing companies can make or break the installation experience (literally), so make sure that you do your research to ensure that you end up working with a reputable company. We think that Butte Fence is one of, if not the best place to buy wrought iron fence.
The Amount of Maintenace Needed
As mentioned, some metal fences will require more maintenance than others post-installation. This often takes the form of additional costs, so factor them into your decision-making process.
Solid steel and wrought iron are both durable, but they’re also going to require a bit more maintenance. On the other hand, you won’t have to worry about needing to outright replace them.
Aluminum isn’t as durable, so it won’t hold up as well to damage. It is, however, much easier to maintain and replace than the other options.
Find the Perfect Decorative Metal Fence for You
If you’re looking for stylish, durable, and reliable fencing material, consider going with metal. As this guide explains, there are some things you’ll want to consider when choosing a decorative metal fence, so make sure to keep these points in mind when looking at different options.
Do you have a better idea of what qualities you want to look for in iron or steel fences? if you do, make sure to check out some of our other posts for more home-related guides and tips.
