Tubular fences are popular among homeowners due to their sturdiness and ability to withstand harsh weather as compared to wood and vinyl options. They are available in various design options and can be customised for applications such as fencing around a pool, garden, patio area or front yard or even around the entire property. When choosing tubular fencing, you encounter two material options: steel and aluminium. This piece will address the considerations to have in mind when choosing between the two metals for your new fence.
Fence Applications
Where do you want to install your new fence? How do you expect the structure to perform? Answering these two questions should help you choose between tubular steel and aluminium for your new fence. Generally, aluminium is a lightweight material, and this makes it more suitable for finishing touches of your home's exterior. As such, an aluminium fence around your pool, front garden or patio area would be a great choice.
On the other and, tubular steel is a heavier and sturdier material than aluminium. While it may not be as heavy-duty as solid steel, tubular steel performs well in most heavy-duty applications. It is an excellent choice for security fencing as its sturdiness makes it hard to break. It's also great if you want a durable yet visually appealing fencing material for various areas around your property.
The Cost Factor
If cost is a constraint in your project, you may want to go for aluminium. This is a low-cost yet incredibly durable material for tubular fencing installations. On the other hand, tubular steel is costlier since it has to undergo processes such as zinc coating or galvanising to prevent corrosion. Also, the metal is heavier, and this can increase the transport and installation costs.
Whichever option you go for, ensure it's suited to your project. Although tubular steel is costly, it can last a lifetime when maintained properly. However, aluminium is also a great alternative despite being lightweight and cheaper.
Fence Maintenance
Maintenance is a crucial aspect to consider when installing tubular fencing. With aluminium, you don't have to worry about maintaining it. The material has incredible corrosion-resistant properties which help increase its sturdiness and curb appeal. Even when it does corrode, aluminium forms aluminium oxide, a tough layer that protects the fence from further corrosion.
Steel can rust and corrode due to the presence of iron in its composition. However, when galvanised or coated with zinc, tubular steel gains a high resistant to corrosion. You have to protect the fence from corrosive chemicals and sodium chloride (especially in the air and water), as these two elements can accelerate corrosion of the metal.
These are the key factors to consider when choosing between tubular steel and aluminium fencing solutions. Whatever choice you make, remember to hire a professional contractor for installation services.
