Aluminum vs Composite
Choosing between Aluminum and Composite fencing? Aluminum offers low maintenance, a 20–30 year lifespan, and $25–$55 per linear foot, while Composite offers low maintenance, a 25–35 year lifespan, and $25–$55 per linear foot. Here's a full side-by-side comparison of cost, lifespan, maintenance, and best use cases.
Quick Comparison
| Aluminum | Composite | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / ft | $25–$55 | $25–$55 |
| Lifespan | 20–30 yrs | 25–35 yrs |
| Maintenance | low | low |
Overview
Aluminum fences offer the elegant look of wrought iron without the rust and heavy maintenance. They feature vertical pickets with decorative finials and are powder-coated for long-lasting color. Aluminum fencing is lightweight, strong, and ideal for both security and curb appeal. Privacy options include louvered panels and solid infill panels.
Composite fences are made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic polymers, creating a material that looks like wood but resists rot, insects, and weather. They come in realistic wood grain textures and earth-tone colors that won't fade, peel, or require painting.
Common Uses
Aluminum
- ✓ Front yard boundaries
- ✓ Pool enclosures
- ✓ Garden borders
- ✓ Decorative property lines
- ✓ Privacy screening with panels
Composite
- ✓ Backyard privacy
- ✓ Pool enclosures
- ✓ Modern home fencing
- ✓ Commercial screening
- ✓ Property boundaries
Pros & Cons
Aluminum
- + Rust-proof — ideal for coastal and humid climates
- + Elegant appearance with many style options
- + Virtually maintenance-free
- + Lightweight and easy to install
- + Rackable panels follow slopes naturally
- − Standard styles do not provide full privacy
- − More expensive than chain link
- − Can bend under heavy impact
- − Privacy panels cost significantly more
- − Gaps in picket styles allow small animals to pass through
Composite
- + Looks like real wood without the maintenance
- + Won't rot, warp, crack, or splinter
- + Made from recycled materials
- + Color is consistent and fade-resistant
- + Resists insects and moisture
- − Highest upfront cost of any fence material
- − Limited color and style selection
- − Can expand and contract with temperature
- − Heavy panels — harder to install
- − Relatively new — less track record than wood
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Aluminum | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Per linear foot | $25 – $55 | $25 – $55 |
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Lifespan & Maintenance
| Attribute | Aluminum | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Lifespan | 20–30 years | 25–35 years |
| Maintenance Level | low | low |
| Material | Metal | Composite |
Which Is Better: Aluminum or Composite?
Choose Aluminum if you need:
- ✓ Pool fencing (meets most codes)
- ✓ Front yard curb appeal
- ✓ Properties with slopes (rackable panels)
- ✓ Coastal areas (no rust)
Choose Composite if you need:
- ✓ Homeowners wanting wood look without maintenance
- ✓ Eco-conscious buyers (recycled materials)
- ✓ Humid and wet climates
- ✓ Long-term investment
Aluminum is not recommended for:
- × Containing small pets (gaps between pickets in standard styles)
- × Areas needing wind or noise blocking
- × Tight budgets
Composite is not recommended for:
- × Very tight budgets
- × Traditional or historic properties
- × Areas needing maximum structural strength
Published February 15, 2026
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