Metal Fences: A Guide To Picking The Best Metal Fence

Author: Jeremiah

Jul. 14, 2025

Metal Fences: A Guide To Picking The Best Metal Fence

When you decide to fence your yard, or replace an existing fence there are many considerations to be made. You have to go through the length of the fence around your yard, the material, style, and overall quality that will impact your home value and curb appeal.

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And if you have a homeowners' association there might be fence rules and regulations you will have to follow around the size, height, material, and style. We're here to help you understand a popular fence material that is durable, and comes in different materials and layouts. That's the metal fence for a front yard or back yard that is a classic choice of homeowners.

Types of Metal Fence Materials

The different materials of metal fences has a long history as an alternative to wood fences. The most popular metal fence materials are wrought iron fences, steel and aluminum.

Wrought Iron Fences

Wrought iron fences is a heavy-duty fence that also has a sense of elegant and decorative style that is long lasting. Strolling through many neighborhoods and areas of Atlanta will reveal wrought iron fences as the chosen material. Typically wrought iron fences have a powder coat to protect it from the elements and has a heat applied finish that makes it more durable than regular paint.

If the powder coating is scratched or marred in any way, however, the iron will begin to rust. This makes repainting the fence every year or two a good choice to maintain the integrity of your iron fence.

Pros of wrought iron are it's strong and durable, has the ability to take on customizable designs and the classic appearance.

Cons of wrought iron are that they require regular maintenance to ward off rust. Iron is very heavy and is more difficult to work with.

Modern Metal Fencing

The majority of ornamental metal fences are made of tubular steel or tubular aluminum. These types of metal fences can be machined in a factory then installed at the home easily. The metal posts, rails and pickets are hollow so they are lighter and can be transported more easily. These drive the production and labor costs down so they can be sold at comparable prices

Steel tubular fence

Steel can be bent into hollow pickets, rails and posts, which are welded together and screwed into posts. Tubular fencing is the most common type of metal fence since it costs less to produce and is more light weight so it's easier to work with.

Pros of steel are that it's strong enough to have 8 foot long panels and fewer posts.

Cons are that steel is susceptible to scratching and rusting.

Aluminum Fences

Aluminum fences are shaped similarly to steel fences and preassembled into panels or pieces so they're easier to install. Though similar to steel they have many advantages. Aluminum won't rust or corrode, so this is the best choice for homes in coastal areas or near bodies of water. However, aluminum isn't as strong as iron.

Pros of aluminum fences are that it is less expensive, and can be sloped to accommodate uneven terrain.

Cons of aluminum are the lesser strength as compared to iron, and it can be easier to dent than an iron fence.

Chain-link Fencing

Chain link isn't as popular as it used to be, but you'll still see plenty of chain link fences around town. That's because they are quite durable and long lasting. They're made out of galvanized steel wire, which makes them more resistant to corrosion and rust. Chain-link fences are also cheaper than other fence types and are very easy to install.

However, they don't provide as high level of security as other fences, and are pretty easy for animals and people to climb. If the look of a chain-link fence isn't your style you can always have vinyl coated chain link which come in black and green.

Pros of chain link fences are they require very little maintenance

Cons of chain link fences are they don't fit with many homes aesthetics and are not permitted by many homeowners' associations.

Solid steel fence

Solid steel fences, as compared to tubular fences, are much heavier which also makes them stronger and more durable. That's why when security is of the utmost importance solid steel is the choice of many commercial and residential property owners.

Pros of solid steel are the near impossible to damage properties, as well as the ability to accommodate sloping yards.

Cons are the heaviness which can require machinery to hoist into place, and it also requires consistent maintenance.

Metal Fence Maintenance Requirements

Part of owning a metal fence is maintaining it to last for years to come. Similarly to how different wood fences age uniquely, fence materials react differently to different climates.

Aluminum Fence Maintenance

For aluminum there really isn't much maintenance required, but you should keep a keen eye for dulling or oxidizing. These look like white, powdery areas on the fence, and a finish that no longer shines. In this case you can wash the aluminum fence with soap and water, then coat it with automotive wax to create a barrier against the elements and restore the original luster.

Iron, Steel or Chain-link Fence Maintenance

Bare iron and steel corrode when they are exposed to air and water, and if salt is in the mix you will see rust appear even faster. However, newly installed fences are primed and painted to prevent this kind of damage. In order to maintain the integrity of a metal fence you should just wash the fence with soap and water twice a year, and oil any latches and springs with mineral oil. You can also use steel wool to buff scratches or signs of rust, and neutralize them with lemon juice and vinegar. After that you should touch up these areas afterwards with a matching rust resistant paint.

If you have a damaged metal fence or rusted metal fence you should remove or clean any overgrowth which can trap moisture. As long as the fence hasn't been neglected for decades, and it's simply a thin rust layer on the surface, you shouldn't need any heavy duty equipment to remove the rust from your fence.

A wire brush can gently remove surface rust from flat areas, and on corners or decorative elements an abrasive material like black sandpaper can be used. To restore the fence it's important to clean the metal, then prime the fence with an oil based primer formulate for metal. After the fence is primed using an oil based paint will help ward off future rust.

What is the best metal fencing?

The best metal fence is different for different houses or commercial properties, and the overall budget requirements. Tubular steel fences are a great option for most homes, but this might not be secure enough for others. If there is constant harsh weather with gusts of salty water then aluminum will be the best fence for its corrosion resistance. And if a wrought iron fence look is what is in style in your neighborhood this could be the best fence for you.

At the end of the day it comes down to personal taste, and requirements of the fence for your property. We can help guide and give advice on which fences work best since we have over 60 years experience installing fences in the Atlanta area.

Related links:
The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing copper expanded metal mesh
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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Metal Fence Panels for Your Property

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Proper Installation for a Metal Fence

Comparing Metal Fencing Materials: Aluminum, Steel, and Wrought ...

Metal fencing is a cardinal choice in perimeter security. It is popular in many residential and commercial properties for its exceptional strength and design options that do not undermine curb appeal. Metal fencing covers various material options, which include steel, aluminum, and wrought iron.

When it comes to choosing the right materials, it really depends on your specific property needs and what you want. Aluminum, for example, is ideal if you live in coastal areas because it is highly rust-resistant. It is also available in different styles to match the exterior of your building.

Check out some of the most popular fencing style options at All Security Equipment to see what best suits your property.

Comparing Metal Fence Options

Metal fencing is a broad term to describe various metals used for property protection. The most widely used are steel, aluminum, and wrought iron; each has its unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron metal fencing gives ornate fence designs their classic and iconic look. It is highly malleable and can be forged into different shapes and styles.

Solid wrought iron fences are timeless and durable, but they are more complex to install and expensive due to the sometimes limited supply and specialized production process requirements.

Wrought iron fencing suits historical and classical residential homes, decorative front yards, home gardens, and pool enclosures. This fencing material is best in areas experiencing frequent extreme weather conditions like hurricanes and heavy rains.

Pros

  • Strong and durable
  • Difficult to cut through
  • Weather-resistant
  • Limitless design options

Cons

  • Prone to corrosion
  • High maintenance
  • Heavy and hard to install

Steel Metal Fencing

Steel fences are an excellent alternative to wrought iron if you want similar advantages for a lower price. Dressed solid steel can pass as wrought iron for homeowners who desire intricate styling. Steel is strong and durable enough to support itself without needing more fence posts.

Most steel fences are available in tubular designs, which reduce their weight for easier installation. They are usually welded together, making them more secure than screw fences.

Steel is resistant to temperature, weather, and corrosion. However, it is not scratch-resistant. Even powder-coated steel must be maintained regularly to prevent scratches, which may cause rust.

Stainless steel, prefabricated steel, or powder-coated steel are excellent options for all fence applications. However, they may not be suitable in areas with highly humid environments and coastal locations.

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Strong and durable
  • Highly weather resistant

Cons

  • Solid steel is difficult to install
  • Requires maintenance
  • Not scratch resistant

Aluminum Fencing

Rust-resistant, lightweight, and inexpensive aluminum fences are popular options for businesses and residential properties. Aluminum is lighter than steel and wrought iron, making it easier to transport and install. It is also slightly cheaper but still at par in strength and durability.

An aluminum fence is maintenance-free and does not require frequent repair and replacement. It can stand against temperature changes and typically outlast other metal fences.

Aluminum fences are versatile and can be prefabricated into different styles. Powder-coated aluminum fences are available in different colors to complement various home designs.

Aluminum fencing is most applicable for use in coastal areas or hilly terrain.

Pros

  • Versatile design and color
  • Lightweight
  • Low maintenance
  • Weather and rust resistant

Cons

  • May bend in strong winds
  • Not ideal for high-security facilities

Which Fence Is Right for Your Property?

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each type of metal fencing helps you narrow your fence material options.

Here are some factors that may help assess your needs when choosing metal fencing.

Security

Security is the top reason fences exist. Fences protect your property from trespassers. Each metal fence offers varying degrees of security, but steel and wrought iron are the champions in this category. When appropriately welded, thick pickets of steel or iron are difficult to bend or pry open. Reinforcing aluminum with sturdy posts, tight fasteners, or pointed pickets may enhance its security feature.

Climate

Metal fences are generally more weather-resistant than wooden, vinyl, or composite fences. However, wrought iron is prone to rust and may not do well in rainy climates compared to aluminum and steel. Iron is superior against frequent extreme weather like hurricanes and is applauded for its strength.

Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance requirements are often an overlooked factor when it comes to fencing. That's because only a few people put effort into regularly checking their fences. If you are one of these people, choose virtually maintenance-free metal fencing like aluminum fences.

Despite moisture exposure, aluminum does not degrade and rust easily. While it still requires cleaning, aluminum does not need regular treatment against corrosion like steel and wrought iron do.

Installation

Aluminum fencing is popular among DIYers because it is lightweight and easy to assemble. It is workable on flat or uneven ground and may be installed to follow a slope without leaving gaps.

Steel and wrought iron fencing are bulky and heavy. It may need the help of professional fence installers, especially in problematic ground or yard situations.

Design

Metal fencing is available in different designs, styles, and colors to suit various properties. Although fence design and aesthetics are individual preferences, they must be considered thoroughly before installation to avoid regrets and expensive replacements.

Aluminum, steel, and wrought iron guarantee an elegant appeal to any property. Decorative metal fencing that complements the building's architecture adds curb appeal and may increase the property's market value.

Budget

The types of metal fencing for any property also depend on your budget. Some metal fencing may be expensive, but its durability is worth a long-term investment. Choose fences that are durable and fulfill your specific needs for the property.

Finding Your Fence Solution

For metal fence needs, visit All Security Equipment. We have easy-to-install fencing options in aluminum, steel, and wrought iron with various styles to suit individual property needs.

Are you interested in learning more about Tubular Steel Fencing? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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