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I guess for every family head, there comes a time when you MUST answer THE CALL-the “challenge” to “keep up with the Jones” and, prodded by Wifey and the kids, “keep up appearances” by competing with the neighbors.
With Wifey going through her mid-life crisis and the kids on every social media platform available, that’s the stage of life I find myself lately-keeping up with the Jonhses from next door.
Take my latest home improvement project for instance-we (which in my family usually means me) are erecting an aluminum fence! And how did that come about?
Well, when last Fall, Tom Johns, our neighbor and my erstwhile friend from across the road, replaced his white picket with a black wrought iron fence, he knew very well the kind of Wifey nagging he had brewed for yours truly-especially given our wives’ competitiveness.
Barely had the paint dried on the Johns’ palatial wrought-iron gate, then Wifey was like…..
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Hey babes, so what are you going to do about Tom Johns’s recent fencing challenge? (No pause) I was thinking we go aluminum on their…-and why?
In case you don’t know, aluminum fencing is one of the latest trends in the fencing world. The silvery metal aluminum is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of different purposes-another of which, lately, is fencing.
I would also have you know that thanks to the rise of aluminum fences over the last couple of years when it comes to fences, the number of fencing options has been added to. Aluminum is an excellent fencing material. It is lightweight, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive in comparison to other fencing materials.
Not only that, but aluminum is relatively also a lot more inexpensive in the long run than other types of fences. For example, unlike wrought iron palisade fencing, it won’t fade or rust, so you won’t have to worry about having to repaint it or sand it down every few years.
Similarly, depending on the kind of wood you use, if you compare the cost of an aluminum fence to the cost of a wooden or a steel fence, you might actually find that aluminum is a lot less expensive.
Further, compared to iron and wood, aluminum is not only a very durable, strong material that is resistant to corrosion and will not rot or be eaten by insects, but it is also rackable. Made from corrosion-resistant aluminum, your fence is sure to last for years to come. Screws used to assemble the sections allow the sections to rake.
Known as “rackable,” this allows a section of fence to follow the change in grade. So, if you’re looking for a durable, reliable, sturdy, and rackable fence, you need to look no further than aluminum fences.
But not only are aluminum fences the most durable, reliable, and sturdiest fencing materials available, but aesthetically, many homeowners believe them by far the best-looking.
And when you keep in mind that if properly installed, an aluminum fence will last for decades and yet still maintain its good looks all the way through, then you can see why aluminum fencing is fast becoming the fence of choice for homeowners throughout the U.S.
For instance, in Florida’s Hernando, Pasco and Citrus counties. Actually, these days, most of the fencing is installed that “look like the wrought iron fence is actually made from aluminum.”
Last but not least, living on a hillside as we do, the best thing about aluminum fencing is that it can be installed on any type of terrain, even on hillsides. However, beware-not all aluminum fences are-for lack a better word-erected equal.
Wifey had more than made her case.
So I was like…Oh really, what type of aluminum fence did you have in mind, doll? Just what types of aluminum fences are out there, sweetie?
No sooner had I asked than Wifey was busy searching Homestratosphere. com for info. Below is what she relayed to me about the different types of aluminum fences out there (pun intended).
While there are two primary styles that aluminum fences offered in- flat top and spear point-both which are very popular depending on the application and use of the fence, there are actually FOUR main types of aluminum fences for you to choose from and have erected. These are:
1. Aluminum Security Fence
What is it?
True to its name, an aluminum security fence is a sturdy fence that is easy to install.
Why would you choose this type? Pros? Cons?
The fence is an effective deterrent to intruders and gives you the peace of mind that your family is safe. An aluminum security fence is a strong, durable barrier that can be used to protect property.
The security fence is easy to install and requires little maintenance. Need I say more? Well, unless, of course, you suffer from severe claustrophobia, then you might feel a little penned in.
What is it used for?
It’s a no-brainer, really. The fence is primarily erected for safety/protection/defense purposes. It can be used to enclose your yard, subdivide your property, or protect an entrance. It is the first line of defense for the people and the property. It keeps people out of your yard and the things you have in it.
Key features
Coming with sturdy aluminum bars and a security gate, this fence can be accompanied by barbed wire, sharpened spikes on top, and other objects that make it difficult to get through. You could even put an electric wire on top for that extra security.
Any other pertinent info to share?
Feel free to combine your aluminum security fence with a computerized gate system, and you’ve got the ultimate in-home and property protection. Just so your neighbors know who the boss is, right?
2. Child Safety Aluminum Fencing
What is it?
As its name suggests, this type of fence is erected for children’s safety.
Why would you choose this type? Pros? Cons?
Ideal for those places where children (or pets) might fall in, such as that wishing well in the back garden. If your children have already left the coop, then think of your grandchildren.
Constructed of durable, rust-resistant aluminum and is easy to install and gives you peace of mind whenever your little ones go to play outside.
Indeed, “a sturdy aluminum fence encircling the area where your kids and pets play is the perfect solution to keeping them safely on the property.” The only problem with this fence is that it can be a little bit difficult to install.
What is it used for?
This fence is primarily erected for the safety/protection of children and pets. Child safety aluminum fences are designed to keep children safe while playing in your yard.
Key features
This type of fence has a sturdy locking mechanism and narrowly spaced bars, too small for your little ones to slip through. The gate is large enough for adults to walk through, but it’s too high for a child to climb over. They are also anchored to the ground with heavy-duty bolts.
Any other pertinent info to share?
It is not only perfect for children but also for pets. So even if you don’t have toddlers or pre-teens, think of your pooch and pussy-cat. These fences can be customized with a variety of styles and designs, depending on the needs of the customer.
3. Pool Safety Aluminum Fence
What is it?
This is a sturdy metal fence that is erected around a pool area.
Why would you choose this type? Pros? Cons?
It does not matter whether you are six months old or a sixty-year-old; falling into a pool has no age limit. Annually, many mishaps and tragic accidents happen every year because swimming pools aren’t protected by a safety fence and locking gate.
Installing a metal safety fence around your pool will go a long way towards you enjoying peace of mind. While it is protective, it can restrict your movements and freedom to access the pool.
What is it used for?
It is used to protectively keep you, your children, and pets safe when walking or playing outside around a pool.
Key features
This fence comes as a long length of fencing that can be installed along the edges of your pool area. It can be made to have a sleek design. The pool safety aluminum fence has a self-locking design that makes it very easy to assemble. The aluminum posts sometimes have a quick-release feature for the installation of the fence.
Any other pertinent info to share?
Please, don’t let any of your family members be statistics!
4. Ornamental Aluminum Fence
What is it?
It is or can be a custom-designed, decorative, attractive fence. Arguably, all gates are ornamental and ornate by design.
Why would you choose this type? Pros? Cons?
As time goes by, the old, rusty iron fence that stood in the backyard starts to deteriorate and needs to be replaced. While, as the homeowner, you can choose from a variety of fencing options, such as wrought iron, chain link, or PVC, as we have seen, none beats aluminum.
The ornamental aluminum fence is a perfect pick for anyone looking to add some curb appeal to their home. It comes in a variety of designs and is a great way to add a personal touch to your property.
So, if you would just like to improve the overall look of their property, or simply want to keep up with the Joneses, then look no further. An ornamental aluminum fence can bring an instant increase in the aesthetic or eye appeal of your home. Not to mention gratification and a sense of satisfaction.
What is it used for?
For renovating, beautifying, decorating, and generally, home improving your home, to turn heads and even enhance the market value of your home.
Key features
The ornamental aluminum fence is made of sturdy and durable aluminum that has been coated with a clear anodized finish. This fence is rust-resistant and can be custom-designed with patterns or insignia.
Any other pertinent info to share?
Feel free to design your ornamental aluminum fence with triad finials, spikes, patterns, etc.
Impressive hone. Before I call the erectors/installers I have a few FAQs on Aluminum Fencing.
Q. What colors do aluminum fences come in?
A. Bronze, White, Grey, Beige, and Green are normally standard options for color. Just like style, colors do not normally affect the price of the fence. And if color choices weren’t enough, some manufacturers even offer matte versions and hammertone versions for their fence colors.
Black is the classic color for ornamental fences and the most popular for aluminum fences. But dark bronze colors are taking a close second to black.
Q. Roughly how much does an aluminum fence cost?
A. Generally, you can expect to pay around $50 to $90 per foot, depending on the current cost of materials, any complications generated by your lawn, and other options you might choose.
You can always get the best quote based on all available factors. It’s impossible to generalize, so get in touch with an installer to get an accurate quote.
Q. Is it difficult to install aluminum fencing?
A. Aluminum fencing is perhaps the most installer-friendly fencing available! Though durable, aluminum posts are not as large as, say, 4×4 or even 5×5 monster posts often used for wood or vinyl fencing, so digging the holes is easier. The pre-assembled and gentle-on-the-back panels enable the project to move along efficiently.
Q. Can an aluminum fence follow a downhill slope?
A. Most standard aluminum fencing sections can follow the contour of the ground. This is called either raking or racking. The fences drop about 19″ over the 6′ lengths of a section.
If a greater slope is needed, sections can be specially fabricated as “double-punched sections”, allowing up to 29” of slope over a 6’ span for no additional charge. Not all styles can be raked, so stepping is required.
Q. How far can an aluminum fence rack?
A. Most fence sections can rack about 12″ over their 6’span. (Some styles move a bit more or less than 12″, depending on if they have a thru picket on top (ex. Spear top). If you want to follow a steeper slope than this without stepping over the fence, you need to order a rackable or double-punched section.
The holes in the horizontal rails are about twice as wide as in a standard rail to allow for greater picket movement. If you have a “ski slope”, we also do offer a “heavy rackable section.” Any fence panels that need to be anything other than flat must be specified at the time of order.
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