Comparing & Contrasting The Benefits of Aluminum Vs. Vinyl Fencing

You just moved into a gorgeous home with a spacious yard that’s maybe a little too spacious. You want to fence in your yard for privacy, but you’re not sure which fencing material you should choose. Currently, you’re stuck between aluminum and vinyl. Which is the better pick?

For those on a budget, choose an aluminum fence since it's less expensive. If you want a fence with a timeless appeal, choose vinyl. If you live in a state with hurricanes or snowstorms, pick an aluminum fence. Vinyl is a great choice if you want a fence that looks like wood but without the risk of rotting.

Ahead, you'll learn more about the benefits & drawbacks of aluminum versus vinyl fencing to ultimately determine the best material type for your yard. Stay tuned!

Aluminum fencing is classy, elegant, and just as appealing as vinyl. Yet, is aluminum the right fence material for you? Examine the pros and cons below. 

• Eco-Friendly: Everyone these days wants to do their part for the environment, and that goes for the fence material you select as well. Aluminum is usually built from recycled materials that now get a second life protecting your home.
• Easy Installation: Unforeseen expenses for fence installation can drive up costs, which you’d like to avoid. Even if your yard is sloped or flat, you can still get an aluminum fence installed. Either way, it will look great!
• Color Variety: Forget the notion that aluminum must be metallic. The number of colors you can choose from for your aluminum fence means your yard can be as decorative as you desire.
• Simple Maintenance: Even better is that your aluminum fence will look great for a long time to come without a lot of hard work on your part. Aluminum doesn’t rust, so you won’t have to worry about it looking tarnished. All you have to do is hose off the fence on a monthly basis.
• Long Lifespan: You won’t need a new fence every few seasons or even close to that if you choose aluminum. The average lifespan of this fencing material is at least 30 years, if not longer. 

As great of a choice as an aluminum fence is, there are downsides associated with this material that you must know about.

• Might Not Offer The Best Security: Aluminum is both durable and lightweight, but it’s the lightweight part that can be problematic. Although a would-be intruder can’t just rip your fence down, they would have an easier time destroying it compared to other fence materials.

• Not as Private: If you’re looking for a privacy fence for your yard, once again, aluminum might not be your best option. Most aluminum fence styles leave openings between the bars so you can see right out and anyone could see right in. 

This section will help you determine if vinyl is just what you’re looking for in a fencing material.

Starting again with the advantages, here are the upsides of vinyl fencing for your yard.

• Simple Cleaning and Maintenance: Like aluminum, vinyl is a smooth material that’s easy to clean and easy to maintain. You can use a garden hose for basic cleaning or heavier-duty cleaning agents like bleach, white vinegar, or dish soap for removing stains.
• No Rotting: Aluminum might not rust, but vinyl will not rot. You can expect to have your vinyl fence for at least 20 years or longer.
• Can be Eco-Friendly: The plastics used to make vinyl fencing are often recycled so your fence is better for the planet. That being said, don't be afraid to confirm that with the manufacturer.
• Can Resemble Other Materials: Do you wish you could have a wood fence but the thought of your fence rotting has given you pause? No problem! Vinyl doesn’t have to look like plastic but can resemble materials like wood as well.
• Great Decorative Options: Not to be outdone by aluminum, you can opt for colorful or decorative vinyl fencing as well. The variety of options you have can beautify your yard and give it a totally new feel!
• Custom Privacy Options: You can also select the degree of privacy for your vinyl fence. If you want the fence slats to be right next to each other, that’s one such installation option. You can also request more space between the slats. 

If you’re heavily leaning towards a vinyl fence, not so fast. Make sure you check out the following downsides of this fencing material.

• Can Get Moldy: A downside of vinyl fencing is the likelihood of mold spots developing. The wetter the weather by you, the more mold you will see. It’s not only mold that will grow, but mildew and algae as well. The stains are removable, but that’s more time and maintenance you have to put in.
• Usually More Expensive: Do you want to save money on your house fencing project? Vinyl might not be the best choice. According to The Spruce, a vinyl fence can cost upwards of $3,600!

Deciding between an aluminum or vinyl fence is a tough choice to make. Both fencing materials have their pros and cons. Either way, you’ll have a dependable fence that will improve your home’s curb appeal and make you feel more secure on your property.