An aluminum fence is a fence constructed primarily out of the element
aluminium
Aluminium (aluminum in American and Canadian English) is a chemical element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13. Aluminium has a density lower than those of other common metals, at approximately one third that of steel. I ...
. Due to the metal’s low density and ability to resist corrosion, it has become a popular choice as lightweight, durable fence and railing structure.
Aluminum fencing is used for both commercial and residential use. Aluminum fence is generally available preformed, in a wide variety of styles. It tends to be easy to clean, resists weathering and has low maintenance requirements. It can also be more cost-efficient than comparable materials, such as
wrought iron
Wrought iron is an iron alloy with a very low carbon content (less than 0.08%) in contrast to that of cast iron (2.1% to 4%). It is a semi-fused mass of iron with fibrous slag inclusions (up to 2% by weight), which give it a wood-like "grain" ...
and
steel.
Many aluminum fences have rackable fence panels. Depending on the brand of fence, panels are designed to rack anywhere from 4 inches to 24 inches over 6 feet. The amount a fence panel can rack is determined by the size of hole punched on the horizontal rails to accommodate pickets. The fence can then adjust to the slope of your land, meaning there will be no gaps at the bottom of the fence on uneven or sloping ground. This will accommodate all but the steepest grades.
Aluminum fences are made in a wide range of sizes and shapes. They come in many different colors, which are applied using a powder coating. The coating is applied through an electrostatic process and cured under heat to form a strong smooth surface. The powder coating adheres to aluminum better than paint or other coatings. It has the ability to withstand harsh conditions including extreme heat and cold. Its weather resistant quality leads many manufacturers to offer very long
warranties
In contract law, a warranty is a promise which is not a condition of the contract or an innominate term: (1) it is a term "not going to the root of the contract",Hogg M. (2011). ''Promises and Contract Law: Comparative Perspectives''p. 48 Cambri ...
, from decades up to "lifetime" for some brands.
Aluminum fence materials are often in the form of rigid rails or posts, but flexible forms are also used. Aluminum fences are made in multiple grades ranging from light weight residential to heavy weight industrial.
Aluminum fencing didn’t become popular in the residential world until 10–15 years ago as it was more expensive and the benefits were lesser known. Over the past 5 years, many residential neighborhood Home Owners Associations began requiring aluminum fencing due to its uniform look from home to home. As it requires little to no maintenance and does not rust, the fences remain “new” in appearance for many years.
Aluminum fences can be used for Privacy fencing, to provide privacy and security;
Pool fencing; Decorative or ornamental fencing, to enhance the appearance of a property; Boundary fencing, to demarcate a piece of real property (link), or
Perimeter fencing Demarcation of a perimeter, when the protection of assets, personnel or buildings is required, is normally affected by the building of a perimeter fence system. The level of protection offered varies according to the threat level to the perimeter. D ...
, to prevent children and/or pets from wandering away
References
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Fences
Aluminum objects