Aluminum vs. Steel Fence: Which is Better For You?

August 29, 2024

You want to add a fence but you are not sure whether to go with an aluminum fencing or a steel fencing? Adding fencing to your home can not only add to the aesthetics of your home and improve curb appeal, but it can also provide an extra level of security and help protect your home and your family. However, it can be difficult to determine which fencing material would work best for your home while staying within your budget. When choosing whether to build your fence out of aluminum or steel, there are a few things to keep in mind. This post will go over the differences between aluminum and steel fences, compare the two, and provide you with a few aluminum vs steel fence pros and cons.

Table of Contents

Aluminum Fence

Aluminum fencing is a lightweight yet durable fencing option that can provide a sleek and modern appearance to your home while helping to keep it safe. It is noticeably lighter than other metal fencing options, and it is also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a great option for outdoor fencing that can withstand the elements.

Aluminum fencing is also customizable and can come in a wide variety of colors and styles to match the curb appeal of your home. It can also be designed to fit your specific landscape and the shape of your property. Aluminum fences are versatile and are a great addition to any home’s curb appeal.

Steel Fence

In comparison to aluminum fences, steel fencing is the epitome of strength and elegance in the world of fencing. It adds a level of charm and character to your home while also utilizing the strength of steel to help keep your property safe. Steel fencing is also denser than aluminum, making for sturdier builds and, at the same time, a longer installation process.

Steel fencing also has a level of customization to it, though not quite to the level that aluminum does. Steel fences come in a variety of styles, and they can be molded to fit the specific dimensions of your property with some effort.

Aluminum vs. Steel Fence: Which is Better?

Now that we know the basics of each, which option is the better choice? The specifics can vary depending on what you are looking for in a fence as well as what your budget is to install it. When comparing steel and aluminum fences, a few factors to keep in mind are the durability and strength, the cost, the design, level of maintenance, how eco-friendly they are, and their application and versatility.

1. Durability and Strength

When compared to traditional fencing materials such as wood or chain link, both aluminum and steel fencing offer substantial durability and strength. However, solid steel fencing is noticeably stronger than aluminum fencing, making it more appealing for people with security as a high priority in their fencing. This strength comes from the use of solid steel, but the cost of that strength is a significant likelihood of rust and corrosion. Steel will rust over time, though it can be managed with routine maintenance such as protective coatings. Aluminum is not as strong as steel, but it is more weather-resistant and will not rust or corrode over time.

2. Cost

Aluminum and steel fencing are both an investment, but steel fencing tends to cost more upfront due to the complexity of the installation process and the overall weight of the material. Steel fencing also requires more upkeep with routine maintenance to prevent rusting and corrosion, which can add up over time. Aluminum is a more affordable material and is cheaper to install, which makes it a more budget-friendly option for homeowners. There are also fewer maintenance costs with aluminum fencing, saving you money over time.

3. Design

While both aluminum and steel fencing have options to customize to fit your aesthetic, it is important to keep in mind that aluminum fencing tends to have more customization options than steel. Aluminum is easier to mold and shape for your property and landscape, and it comes in more color varieties than steel fencing. Aluminum has a ton of color options, while steel fencing tends to really only come in black and bronze colors.

4. Less Maintenance

As mentioned, aluminum fencing has noticeably fewer maintenance requirements than steel fencing. Steel requires regular upkeep and maintenance, including regularly applying layers of protective coating to help prevent rust and corrosion from exposure to the weather and the elements. In comparison, aluminum has little to no maintenance involved once the fence is installed. Aluminum does not rust or corrode, making it a great option for outdoor fencing that will have to stand up to weather conditions such as rain or snow.

5. Eco-Friendly

Aluminum and steel fencing can both be easily replaced and reused, but aluminum fencing is 100% recyclable. This makes it one of the most eco-friendly fencing materials currently on the market. While steel fencing can be reused in other projects once it is removed, it can be difficult to reuse it while keeping its longevity. Aluminum fencing can be recycled and used to create any new aluminum product, while steel fencing can only be reused as fencing on a different property.

6. Application and Versatility

Steel fencing is robust and built to last, making it a great option for commercial lots or areas with high traffic. It is built for security and protection, making it a good option for business owners who highly value security from their fencing. In comparison, aluminum fencing is versatile and easy to install. It is easy to customize to any property and is lightweight. Aluminum fencing is a great option for homeowners who are looking for versatility as well as practicality in their fencing.

The Takeaway

While both aluminum and steel fencing have their pros and cons, aluminum fencing is a great versatile fencing that is great for the average homeowner. It is lightweight, customizable, and requires less maintenance than a steel fence. Steel fencing is much heavier than aluminum, and can be more costly while requiring more maintenance. Both options have their uses, and which you choose can depend on what you are looking for in a fence as well as what your budget is.

Contact Champion Fence

Looking to install an aluminum fence on your property for added elegance and security? Contact Champion Fence online today. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to help you choose the right fence for your property that meets your needs while also staying within your budget. If you need an aluminum fence, Champion Fence is here to help! We service both residential and commercial properties in the Tennessee and Midwest areas.

Let the Industry Leaders Install Your Next Project

Terry Dodson

2025-01-07

Champion fence company was outstanding to work with. They did an excellent job on my privacy fence. They were the lowest price in town, and did excellent work. Their installer named Charlie and his crew, paid close attention to detail and went over and beyond My expectations. I most definitely recommend them.

nathan hope

Nelson is the best he did a great job!

Todd Napier

The sales and the installation teams were very professional and customer oriented. Looking forward to many years of enjoyment of our new fence.

Landon Williams

2025-01-05

Champion was great to work with and communicated very well. They had an opening which allowed our fence to be installed a few days earlier than originally scheduled. They showed up exactly when they said they would and did a great job. I’m very happy with their work

Daniel Greene

2025-01-04

Our Fence was falling apart. We had a less than stellar experience with a “cheep” company when we moved in. From Cody who contacted us to Charlie and his crew who put the fence in today, I can say we are more than satisfied. Amazing work, amazing team, very professional. Will be referring them this company to others!

scott VonDeBur

2024-12-19

Unbelievably fast and helpful, I had a lot of specific requests and they met every need! Nelson is the man of the hour, he walked me through the whole process when he showed up, and it was done the same day! Awesome work!

Hana Viktorinova

Champion fencing came to us for the estimate, showed us our property lines and talked us through all the options. We removed thick bushes on our property to help facilitate putting a fence in, and when we requested someone to come see if we did enough, they immediately sent someone to give us approval. The fence installation itself was surprisingly fast and only took just a few hours for our whole backyard. The fence looks amazing, is level and even, and they ensured our satisfaction every step of the way. Would highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a company with great communication and quality product.

Danielle Reagan

2024-11-22

We have used Champion fence twice and both times had a great experience. They are professional, do quality work, and are reasonably priced. We would highly recommend them for any fence project large or small!

Kelsee Becker

2024-11-21

Working with the team at Champion Fence is easy and seamless. Highly recommend their services if you’re in the market for a new fence!

nash man

2024-11-19

I contracted with Champion Fence Company for installation a new vinyl fence and two gates on either side of my home in Mascot TN. The work was completed in one day, (11/18/24), and the Quality is excellent. The sales person Eric Bergin, Alex in the office and Gorgorio and his team were also excellent in knowledge, professionalism, installation and very courteous. I highly recommend this company for any fence installation.