Effective residential fencing is an important consideration for homeowners with pets and small children, and may also increase your home’s security and privacy.
Deciding to install a fence isn’t as simple as it may seem though. With so many types of fencing materials and designs available, you’re wise to do some research before reaching out to a fencing specialist.
Get the ball rolling by reading this fence materials comparison where we discuss the pros and cons of a vinyl vs. an aluminum fence for your home.
Vinyl vs. Aluminum Fence Composition
Aluminum is one of the most abundant raw materials on earth. It’s used widely in construction and is a popular option for fencing. It’s lightweight and sturdy and can mimic the appearance of more expensive metal fencing.
Vinyl and PVC fences are similar in many respects. They’re both made from polyvinyl chloride, made by polymerizing vinyl chloride into a chemically resistant and durable synthetic resin.
While vinyl fencing is made mostly of PVC, manufacturers add various additives to enhance the properties of the fencing material. These include:
- Stabilizers to improve durability
- Impact modifiers to increase strength
- Plasticizers for enhanced flexibility
- Pigments
Pigments are used to create a variety of colors which allow for many decorative fencing options to suit your home and landscaping.
Aluminum and Vinyl Fence Pros and Cons
Both vinyl and aluminum fences are durable options with lifespans that can exceed 20 years. Vinyl requires little maintenance apart from routine cleaning and is resistant to insects, rot, and moisture.
Vinyl fences aren’t quite as strong as aluminum fencing, but they provide increased security and privacy for homeowners.
Aluminum is a sustainable and infinitely recyclable material. Vinyl and PVC fencing previously had some limitations regarding recyclability, but recent research has had positive results in this regard.
Aluminum fencing is constructed from rust-proof material requiring little maintenance and it’s cheaper to install than vinyl fencing. Although there’s no contest when it comes to aluminum vs. iron maintenance, modern aluminum fencing can easily mimic the timeless designs of wrought iron fences.
Fence installation costs are a little more expensive for both of these materials when compared to less durable options like wood fencing.
Get Professional Help With Fence Installation
Aluminum and vinyl fencing are an excellent choice for most homeowners. They’re strong, durable, and easy to maintain but you’ll pay a little more when it comes to installation costs.
Are you still on the fence about whether a vinyl or aluminum fence suits you better? A qualified installer can help you make the right decision.
Certified Fencing can help you find the perfect fence for your property. Our team comprises experienced, highly-trained experts who can assist you with every aspect from selecting materials, to design and installation.
We take care of it all and are committed to building lasting relationships with every customer. Working with us will help you save hours of research into finding your ideal solution, and assure you of a satisfactory result.
Find the best match for your home today.