Decorative Wrought Iron vs. Aluminum Fencing

Wrought iron and aluminum fencing have a lot of similarities; it can be difficult to distinguish which of the two nearly-identical options are best for you, but to get a grasp on that, you need to know the nuanced differences between the two. At Certified Fencing, we pride ourselves on offering our customers top-tier services, including providing relevant information. Today, we'll be discussing the differences between these two popular fencing materials. 

To understand the differences, you must understand the similarities as well: both wrought iron and aluminum fencing have a similar aesthetic, are in the same price range, and have similar durability as well. Both are often used for security and to fence in estates. So, with all of these similarities, what's the difference? This crucial distinction could sway your fencing decision for your residential or commercial space. 

Installation
Consider the ground your fence will cover: is it level, or does it have a lot of slopes and unevenness? If the terrain is level as it is in much of Twin Falls, Idaho, wrought iron panels may work well. Iron is a rigid material, so works really well in stable, flat terrain. On the other hand, because of its rigidity, it may need to be replaced if there's any incline or movement in the ground underneath the fence. Aluminum is more lightweight and durable, so if the ground you're working with is uneven or sloping, it may be the better option for you. 

Maintenance
Because wrought iron is made of, well, iron, avoiding rust requires proper maintenance to achieve its potential as a fence with a long lifespan. Therefore, wrought iron fences need to be professionally painted every 10 years at the very least. Aluminum fencing requires next to no maintenance; if it's been sealed properly, you needn't worry about chipping, cracking, or rusting.  

Finances
Both aluminum and wrought iron comes with a decently sized price tag, but of the two, aluminum fencing tends to be a touch more expensive. However, as you look at the cost of upkeep and maintenance, that slightly higher up-front cost may be well worth the time and money you'll save over the lifespan of the fence. 

Both wrought iron and aluminum fencing stand up well against wear and tear, and both offer a high degree of security. Additionally, the aesthetics match both historic districts and high-end neighborhoods, adding a classy touch to your property. Check out our online gallery for more fencing ideas, or fill out our online contact form or give us a call at (208) 449-2040 for more information today. We serve Twin Falls, Boise, Middleton, Kuna, and all surrounding areas.