3 Major Differences Between Vinyl & Aluminum Fencing

When it comes to installing a new fence on your property, you want to choose the best fencing material for your situation. Two of the most common fencing materials are aluminum and vinyl. Both these fencing materials offer drawbacks and benefits, depending upon your unique needs.

Privacy

Aluminum and vinyl fencing provide you with different levels of privacy based on the way they are constructed.

Vinyl fencing generally comes in large, flat panels, allowing you to completely block the eyes of prying neighbors. Although you can purchase vinyl fencing that comes in slats, flat panels are the most common vinyl material used for fences.

Aluminum fencing is made up of individual rails. With individual rails, there is going to be some space in between each rail. You can control the level of privacy you have based upon how tightly together you place the rails; however, with an aluminum fence, there will be some degree of visibility into your yard.

Strength

There is a big difference in the strength of an aluminum fence versus the strength of a vinyl fence. Vinyl fencing can easily get damaged during a windstorm. If someone tries to climb your vinyl fence, the material could buckle.

Aluminum, on the other hand, is extremely sturdy. It can withstand a strong windstorm without sustaining any damage. If someone tries to climb over your aluminum fence, it is not going to buckle or fall. An aluminum fence is very durable and tends to last longer than a vinyl fence due to its strength.

Maintenance

Both aluminum and vinyl fencing are low-maintenance materials. With a vinyl fence though, you will need to use a pressure washer and cleaner on your fence at least once or twice a year to remove mildew, hard water stains, and dirt from your fence. With an aluminum fence, you don't need to pressure wash or clean your fence, as it will not develop hard water stains or mildew.

With a vinyl fence, over time, the color will fade, so you will either need to repaint the fence or replace it. The color of an aluminum fence doesn't fade with time, so you don't have to worry about repainting it. Aluminum fencing is almost maintenance-free.

When it comes to choosing between vinyl and aluminum fencing, aluminum fencing is stronger, easier to take care of, and long-lasting. Vinyl fencing requires more maintenance, isn't as strong or long-lasting, but allows you a little more privacy if you install panel vinyl fencing.


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