Aluminum vs Metal
Choosing between Aluminum and Metal fencing? Aluminum offers low maintenance, a 20–30 year lifespan, and $25–$55 per linear foot, while Metal offers low maintenance, a 20–40 year lifespan, and $20–$50 per linear foot. Here's a full side-by-side comparison of cost, lifespan, maintenance, and best use cases.
Quick Comparison
| Aluminum | Metal | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / ft | $25–$55 | $20–$50 |
| Lifespan | 20–30 yrs | 20–40 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.
Metal panel fences use corrugated steel, Corten steel, or flat metal sheets mounted between posts to create a modern, industrial privacy barrier. They offer complete privacy and a bold contemporary look. Corten steel develops a natural rust patina that acts as a protective layer.
Common Uses
Aluminum
- ✓ Front yard boundaries
- ✓ Pool enclosures
- ✓ Garden borders
- ✓ Decorative property lines
- ✓ Privacy screening with panels
Metal
- ✓ Modern home privacy
- ✓ Industrial aesthetics
- ✓ Commercial screening
- ✓ Contemporary landscaping
- ✓ Urban backyard fencing
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
Metal
- + Bold, modern aesthetic
- + Complete privacy with solid panels
- + Very long-lasting — metal doesn't rot
- + Fire-resistant
- + Low maintenance once installed
- − Can dent from impact
- − Corrugated steel can be noisy in rain and wind
- − Gets hot in direct sunlight
- − Professional installation recommended
- − May not comply with HOA requirements
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Aluminum | Metal |
|---|---|---|
| Per linear foot | $25 – $55 | $20 – $50 |
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Lifespan & Maintenance
| Attribute | Aluminum | Metal |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Lifespan | 20–30 years | 20–40 years |
| Maintenance Level | low | low |
| Material | Metal | Metal |
Which Is Better: Aluminum or Metal?
Choose Aluminum if you need:
- ✓ Pool fencing (meets most codes)
- ✓ Front yard curb appeal
- ✓ Properties with slopes (rackable panels)
- ✓ Coastal areas (no rust)
Choose Metal if you need:
- ✓ Modern and industrial home designs
- ✓ Low-maintenance privacy
- ✓ Commercial and mixed-use properties
- ✓ Creative architectural statements
Aluminum is not recommended for:
- × Containing small pets (gaps between pickets in standard styles)
- × Areas needing wind or noise blocking
- × Tight budgets
Metal is not recommended for:
- × Traditional neighborhoods
- × HOA-restricted communities
- × Budget projects
- × Areas prone to denting
Published February 15, 2026
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