If you're looking for a beautiful, durable fence for your backyard, then metal fencing may be the way to go. Metal fencing, like aluminum and wrought iron, is often used as decorative fencing, but a simple chain link fence can get the job done if you’re trying to keep something in (or out) of your yard. These fences are sturdy and versatile, and there are plenty of design varieties to meet the aesthetic of your property. Depending on the type, they can also be affordable and low maintenance.
Let’s look at the common types of metal fences for backyards and some pros and cons of each type.
Aluminum Fences
Aluminum fences are commonly used as decorative metal fences. They are known for their durability, ease of maintenance, and lightweight. Aluminum is not prone to rust and can last a lifetime if properly maintained.
Aluminum fences are a good choice for people who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance fence. They're very durable and require little maintenance over time. However, aluminum can be expensive compared to wood or vinyl.
While the fence itself is aluminum, the screws and other hardware holding it together may be steel, which can rust if exposed. The ActiveYard® aluminum fencing we offer at HOA Affordable Fence Company features a special installation method where the steel hardware is covered to prevent exposure and rusting long-term.
Since aluminum fences are primarily decorative, they often feature thin pickets with large gaps between them, and they don’t come in as many height variations as other fence types. They’re perfect for fencing in a garden or adding a low-maintenance fence to a historical home. However, an aluminum fence wouldn’t be a good choice for keeping small dogs or dogs who like to jump inside the yard.
Chain Link Fences
Chain link fences are a common option for any yard. They're affordable, easy to install, and relatively durable if well-maintained. Available in various heights and styles, chain link fences can be used to create boundaries around your entire property or just part of it. A chain link fence would offer the most privacy of the metal fences on our list, especially if you added slats or another material as a screen.
Chain link fences are great for keeping pets and young children in the yard. They’re more affordable than a wood or vinyl fence, but the gaps in the chain link won’t allow small pets to escape through them. A determined cat may be able to climb a chain link fence; however, we don’t recommend letting indoor cats outside unsupervised, even if the yard is fenced in.
You can also use chain link fencing as an alternative to wood or vinyl if you have dogs that love chewing on things. The links are difficult to chew, and the dog will likely be deterred by the metal’s scent.
If you opt for a chain link fence, you’ll need to maintain the points where the chain link is secured to the fence posts. If these points come loose, the fence can be bent and warped, and it may create holes animals can escape through.
Wrought Iron Fences
Wrought iron fences are a classic choice for a backyard fence, especially on a historic home, but they come with plenty of drawbacks if not correctly maintained.
These fences are strong, durable, and gorgeous, but they’re often expensive to install — and the iron is prone to rusting. While most wrought iron is coated and treated, eventually, the coating can peel or chip away. If the chip is not discovered and treated in time, rust can form and spread, making for a costly repair.
Additionally, rust is a danger for tetanus. If someone on your property hurts themselves on a rusty picket of a wrought iron fence, they’re at risk for tetanus and should seek medical care immediately — even if they are vaccinated.
Wrought iron also shares many of the drawbacks of decorative aluminum fencing. Wide gaps and small pickets aren’t great for keeping small pets in the yard, and lower heights won’t deter jumpers.
Which Metal Fence is Right for Your Backyard?
Ultimately, the metal fence that’s right for your home depends on what you need. In general, if you’re looking for something decorative, an aluminum or wrought iron fence will suit your needs. If you’re looking for a more utilitarian purpose, chain link fencing will have you covered.
At HOA Affordable Fence, we recommend using aluminum instead of wrought iron because they can be costly to install and repair. As mentioned above, aluminum doesn’t rust, and many of the wrought iron styles have a similar style available in aluminum.
Start planning for your new fence by downloading our free cost guide to better understand what kind of fence will suit your needs and budget!
