When it comes to fences, wood is a traditional choice and is the most popular fencing material. Aluminum offers a more modern and versatile alternative with many advantages. If you are considering getting a new fence for your property, you should compare the aluminum fence vs. wood. A few more options to wood can meet your unique requirements, and you should consider them before making a final decision. Aluminum fences have many advantages over wood, like affordability, durability, safety, and returns.

A professional recommendation would be aluminum fencing over wood fences. So, how do you compare aluminum fence vs. wood, and which is better for your home? We have made a detailed comparison between aluminum and wooden fences based on the factors that matter the most. There are five critical factors for homeowners to make this vital comparison in determining which material can be best for your fence.

ALUMINUM VS WOOD FENCE: COST COMPARISON

When it comes to the cost of installing a fence, materials and labor are the most significant factors. The length and width of the fence affect these sub-factors and thus determine the price. The number of gates, latches, and other accessories also affects cost.

Cost Of Wood Fencing

Wood fence installation cost will depend on the following:

• The scale of the project
• The type of wood chosen

However, the cost factor is not just limited to the initial installation cost. It also includes the cost of maintenance. Any wood fence will require ongoing maintenance and repair over its lifespan. This increases the cost of ownership when compared to metal fencing.

Cost Of Aluminum Fencing

Regarding aluminum fence cost vs wood, the lifetime cost of ownership of the metal fencing is much lower. The initial labor costs are similar to those for installing wood fences. However, the type of aluminum fence and the inclusion of unique features and accessories can affect the cost of installation.

A high-quality and well-installed aluminum fence doesn’t require regular staining or boards replacement. The long-term maintenance costs are much lower than wooden fences. Besides, they can also last much longer.

So, Is Aluminum Fence Cheaper Than Wood?

1. While the initial wood fence vs metal fence cost is similar, the difference begins to show over the long term. The cost of owning aluminum fence goes down dramatically over the lifespan of the fence.
2. The cost of maintaining wooden fences increases the long-term costs by over 40%. Aluminum fencing, however, is almost completely maintenance-free and saves you both money and time over the long run.
3. When it comes to aluminum fence vs wood comparison, longevity is an important consideration. While wooden fences can last anything from 10 to 20 years in St. Louis’ climate, their aluminum counterparts can last 30 to 50 years. This makes aluminum fences much better in terms of investment value.
4. The initial cost of installing fences will eventually depend on the company handling your project. So, it is recommended to compare the prices offered by different companies. We take pride in offering affordable prices on aluminum fence installation. We suggest comparing our prices and services with our competition and you will get a good idea of why we deliver the best value on the market.

ALUMINUM FENCE Vs WOOD FENCE: LIFETIME MAINTENANCE FACTOR

All types of fences require maintenance to protect them from the elements. This becomes even more important in the weather conditions that the Atlanta area offers. The type of material chosen for your fence will determine how much you will have to spend on maintenance every year.

Maintenance Cost of Wood Fencing

Wood is well known for its lack of weather-resistant properties. Sun and rain can cause it to warp and bend. Exposure to excess moisture can cause rot. While staining and painting can keep your wooden fence protected for a few months, they will fade away after some time. Besides, this fence also attracts pests. This is a more common problem in the hot summer conditions of St. Louis. All this means that wood fences need more frequent staining, painting, and repair, increasing the cost of annual maintenance.

Maintenance Cost of Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum, as a material, is known for its lightweight and high-durability properties. Coated aluminum fences tend to hold their colors better and longer in the sun and rain than wood stains and paints. Another important aluminum fence vs wood difference is that mold or pests do not affect the former.

So, Are Aluminum Fences Cheaper & Easier to Maintain?

Aluminum fencing requires much less maintenance compared to its wooden counterpart. A major reason is that aluminum is much more durable and stronger than wood.
If you have a wood fence, you will have to care for it in a number of ways, including the following:

1. Inspecting your wood fence at least once every 12 months for any need to replace rotten boards or hammer-in nails that come loose.
2. Cleaning the wood fence once every year as mildew, dirt, and grime can build up.
3. Staining or painting the fence once every 2 years. The fence should be re-stained or re-painted only after thorough cleaning and sanding.

These maintenance requirements are for above-average quality wood fences. Cheaper wood fencing will require a greater level of care, thus costing more maintenance. On the other hand, your aluminum fence can greatly resist the sun, extreme weather, and other elements. We suggest aluminum fencing for areas that receive all four seasons, like Atlanta GA.

ALUMINUM vs WOOD FENCE: INSTALLATION FACTOR

When it comes to aluminum fence cost vs wood, installation requirements are also an essential factor affecting the overall costs. The cost of installation is affected by material uniformity, the need to cut the material, and the complexities and challenges that may arise during the job.

Installation Requirements for Wood Fencing

Generally, wood fence installation is going to take time. It will take even more time when it is a custom project, where the fence is built from scratch. Complexities can arise even when you have standard wood fences for installation. This can increase the amount of labor required, which will naturally increase the costs.

Installation Requirements for Aluminum Fencing

When it comes to the installation requirements for aluminum fence vs wood, the former has some advantages working in its favor. A typical aluminum fencing involves the use of premade panels. This speeds up the process of installation. Every piece is designed to fit in with others and create the whole. An expert professional can fasten the panels to posts, and no complexities are involved in the process.

There is another notable difference here. Aluminum posts measure 2x2 and require smaller holes, less dirt removal, and less concrete than wooden posts that measure 4x4.

So, Are Aluminum Fences Simpler & Faster to Install?

Aluminum fencing proves to be a better option based on this factor. There is so much involved in building a wood fence from the ground up. It must be ensured that every board is uniform, and a wide range of potential problems can arise. All this can significantly increase the cost of installation.

When it comes to aluminum fencing, the installation process is straightforward. Besides, there is much less chance of facing any potential issues during the process. Thus, the aluminum fence is a clear winner based on this factor.

ALUMINUM FENCE vs WOOD FENCE: PRIVACY FACTOR

Every homeowner has their personal preferences regarding privacy in their backyards. Many prefer a greater degree of privacy, while others like to preserve and enjoy the view.

Wood Fencing & Privacy

Standard wooden fences are made using pickets or planks. These structures can have spaces between them, thus reducing privacy. There are unique wood privacy fences that close the gaps and create the desired levels of privacy. These fences cost more but offer excellent privacy, preventing neighbors from peeping in and also reducing street noise.

Aluminum Fencing & Privacy

Standard aluminum fences have spaces between the pickets. This means less privacy but is perfect if you want to showcase the view from the yard. There are unique aluminum privacy design fences that can provide you with the desired level of privacy if you like.

So, Which Material is Best for Privacy Fencing?

Wood has a transparent edge when comparing aluminum fences to wood in terms of privacy needs. Typical aluminum fence designs are not ideal for privacy. However, some sellers can offer multiple options for privacy aluminum fencing. If you need maintenance-free privacy fences, consider installing vinyl fencing.

ALUMINUM FENCE vs WOOD FENCE: STYLE FACTOR

Fences have both functional and aesthetic purposes. Their functions typically involve providing safety, security, and privacy. But they can also become an important part of how your home looks.

Wood Fencing & Aesthetics

Wood has always been cherished for its aesthetic value and versatility. People love how the wood looks. However, all wooden structures, including fences, need regular and proper maintenance. Failing to maintain your wood fence can give a broken-down look to it. The stain can start fading, the paint can peel off, and gaps can appear.

You should choose wood fences only when you love the ‘rustic’ and classic look of the material. However, it will not retain its looks long-term without regular maintenance. When it comes to style and design options, there are some options with wood. You can paint or stain your wooden fence or cut them into designs of your choice.

Aluminum Fencing & Aesthetics

Aluminum fences can be designed to create the desired looks. You can have the fence look like a wrought iron fence, and it will retain the looks for a long time. From something simple and neat to something advanced with patterns, there are many options to choose from. However, the number of color options is usually limited.

So, Which Fencing Material Looks Better?

When comparing aluminum fence vs wood in terms of looks, it isn't easy to claim any material. Aluminum fences tend to be lagging behind wood in terms of style options. However, they carry an elegance that is hard to find with wood fencing.

On the other hand, Wood provides a natural and weather-beaten look that is hard to imitate. Many homeowners are drawn to this unique look and appeal and find it fits better into their style. Eventually, the battle of aesthetics can be determined only by your personal preferences.

SO, WHICH MATERIAL IS BETTER FOR YOU? METAL or WOOD FENCES?

So, when it comes to the aluminum fence vs wood comparison, it is important to evaluate the above-mentioned factors.

1. Overall Cost: There is a tie in terms of wood fence vs metal fence cost of installation. However, when you consider the lost term costs involving maintenance, aluminum fencing has a clear edge.
2. Maintenance: If you were to ask where is aluminum fence cheaper than wood, it is this factor – maintenance. Aluminum fencing is clearly easier and cost-effective to maintain. It lasts long and doesn’t require as much care.
3. Installation Requirements: Again, aluminum beats wood in this department. The material is uniform, easy to install, and there is a much lower chance of potential issues arising during the process.
4. Privacy: Wood has an edge here because slats have less gap been the planks. However, if you want to preserve the view, aluminum fences can offer more options.
5. Aesthetics: This is another factor where there is no clear winner. Wood fences offer greater flexibility due to different stain colors, but aluminum stands out for its unique look and style.

Do You Prefer Aluminum Fencing Over Wood Fencing?

After considering all these factors, does aluminum fencing seem like the better option between an aluminum fence and a wood fence? If yes, we would be pleased to share our projects with you, answer your queries, and offer a free estimate. We have decades of experience serving clients throughout the Atlanta area, and we are proud of maintaining very high levels of customer satisfaction.