Why Aluminum Is Ideal For Pool and Garden Fencing
When it comes to pool and garden fencing materials, the options are virtually limitless. From robust steel to rustic wood, radiant glass, and affordable vinyl…you get to choose a material based on the desired properties.
Aluminum has recently become the go-to fencing material due to its incredible longevity and superior resistance against rust and corrosion. The metal is also considerably lighter but no less reliable than its fiercest rival – steel.
In this post, we examine the top factors that make aluminum the preferred material for pool and garden fencing.
1. Aluminum Fencing Can Last For Decades
Durability is aluminum’s biggest selling point.
Pool and garden fencing made from aluminum can last over 50 years with proper maintenance. That’s considerably longer than wood, vinyl, and glass, which hardly survive ten years before you need to overhaul them.
Due to its extended lifespan, aluminum fencing is best installed in a permanent home. The fence will outlive nearly all your other yard structures, including the pool it’s designed to protect.
2. Aluminum Fencing Is Anti-rust
Rusting refers to the oxidation of iron in the presence of oxygen and moisture.
Based on that definition, it’s evident that only iron and iron alloys (like steel) rust.
Aluminum doesn’t rust or rot. That explains why pool and garden fencing constructed from this metal requires minimal maintenance, unlike iron fences.
3. Aluminum Fencing Is Anticorrosive
Many publications use the words “rusting” and “corrosion” interchangeably, but erroneously so. While rusting denotes the chemical reaction between iron, air, and water, corrosion is the gradual deterioration of a surface due to continued oxidation. The latter affects all materials, including metals, ceramics, and plastics.
Fortunately, aluminum doesn’t corrode. At least not as rapidly as other fencing materials do.
When exposed to the elements, aluminum naturally forms an oxide layer that creates a protective barrier against rust and corrosion. It’s the ideal material for use in wet poolside and garden environments.
To boost aluminum’s anticorrosive properties, insist on anodized or electroplated aluminum.
Anodizing is a chemical process that thickens aluminum’s natural oxide layer, boosting the metal’s corrosion resistance. Studies have shown that anodizing enhances aluminum’s anticorrosive properties significantly.
Meanwhile, electroplating deposits a protective layer of another metal onto aluminum’s surface. Commonly used metals include chrome and nickel.
4. Aluminum Fencing Is Pest-Resistant
Even in the absence of rust and corrosive agents, a fence’s durability can be diminished significantly by pests.
Termites are known to make light work of wooden fences. If you share the same ecosystem with these menacing critters, you’ll need to schedule home inspections regularly.
The surest way to avoid such inconveniences (and their costly implications) is by upgrading aluminum fencing.
5. Aluminum Fencing Is Lightweight
At first glance, using lightweight fencing material may sound like a deal breaker. But it’s actually a blessing in disguise.
Aluminum’s lightness makes it easy to transport and install.
The fencing material requires fewer hands to erect, which could translate into fantastic cost savings.
6. Aluminum Fencing Can Be Quite Strong
Steel is probably the first thing that comes to mind when discussing robust fencing materials. Pure steel has a tensile strength of around 300 megapascals (MPa), while aluminum’s tensile strength is 90 MPa.
However, aluminum has a superior strength-to-weight ratio of about ~100, compared to ~60 for steel.
Besides, aluminum can be alloyed to boost its lower tensile strength, making it nearly as robust and impact resistant as aluminum.
7. Aluminum Fencing Is Comparatively Safe
Aluminum fencing provides a secure barrier around your pool and garden, minimizing unauthorized entry.
The material also doesn’t splinter or shutter into shards on impact. This reduces physical harm, particularly to your vulnerable family members like children and pets.
8. Aluminum Fencing Is Low maintenance
Since aluminum fencing resists rust and corrosion remarkably well, it doesn’t require rigorous maintenance.
You won’t need to apply rust treatments or repaint your aluminum fencing every other month. Occasional cleaning is all it takes to keep the fence in peak condition.
Moreover, aluminum’s impact resistance minimizes the need to replace splintering pickets, a common occurrence with wooden or vinyl fences.
9. Aluminum Fencing Can Boost Your Property’s Curb Appeal
When it comes to elevating your home’s curb appeal, few fencing materials stand up to aluminum.
Aluminum comes in diverse styles, profiles, and colors to suit every pool and garden setting.
There are even options designed to mimic wood’s rustic appearance, enabling you to add a natural feel to your outdoor space while enjoying the longevity of aluminum fencing.
10. Aluminum Fencing Is Eco-friendly
Aluminum is over 99% recyclable.
Even if you eventually have to replace your aluminum fencing, it’s great to know you can offer it for recycling.
Recycling aluminum minimizes the emission of greenhouse gases into the environment. It’s much safer than producing metal from virgin raw materials.
Conclusion
Aluminum excels other common pool and garden fencing materials in its superior durability. While the metal is relatively less robust than steel, it makes up for that with its impressive strength-to-weight ratio. Aluminum longevity is rooted in its ability to resist rust and corrosion. Its lightweight properties make it exceptionally easy to install and customize. However, not all aluminum is equal.
To enjoy the benefits of aluminum pool and garden fencing, start by choosing a high-grade material. Ensure the metal has also been chemically treated for enhanced weather- and wear resistance. Needless to mention, enlist professional assistance for all your aluminum installation needs.
