Vinyl PVC Fence vs Aluminum Fence Compared and Expained

[caption id="attachment_765" align="alignright" width="400"] < - Vinyl Fence on Left - Aluminum Fence on Right - >[/caption]

Came across a great article on the Hurricane Shutters blog today comparing vinyl to aluminum fences.

Fence professional Terry Lewis compares the two mediums - Vinyl PVC Fence and Aluminum Fence - by three categories; privacy, security and fence configuration (and flexibility of design).

As Lewis compares the two different fence types, he correctly sites that where security is the priority, aluminum fences are more advantageous, whereas vinyl fence offers a better option where privacy is the primary concern.

Security

Vinyl fence's primary security limitation is that the material does not have the strength to hold large, heavy gates. Vinyl Gates are only manufactured in sizes between 3’ wide single panel swing gates and 12’ or 16’ wide double panel swing gates.  Large gates are usually constructed with posts and frames made of pipe, with vinyl fence panels attached. Vinyl products are rarely used in automated gate systems.

Ornamental aluminum fence does not match iron or steel in strength, but does have the structural integrity to sustain gate sizes which vary from 3’ wide walk gates to 30’ wide slide gates.  Aluminum gates install and work with ease.  Self-closing hinges, pool latches, magnetic latches, gate operators and access controls for lager gates work well with the aluminum fence. These gates are easily used for automated access control systems.

Privacy

The designs of vinyl fence are typically based on wooden fences, which limit visibility as well as light and sound passage across the fence.

The aluminum fences are based on iron fence designs, which do not traditionally limit visibility, and while privacy slats and screens are available for ornamental aluminum fence, they detract from the traditional wrought iron look.

Maintenance

Both vinyl and ornamental aluminum fence are very low maintenance.  A simple occasional wash with soap and water is all it takes to keep the fence as beautiful as the day it was installed.

Color & Design

Vinyl fence is available to match almost and traditional wood fence design and while white and off-white are the most common colors, manufacturers are offering more options as well as various textures (most commonly wood-grain).

Aluminum and ornamental aluminum fence can be found in hundreds of traditional and modern designs with various types of finials at the top. The standard powder coating colors of green, brown, white and black give years of attractive protection. Additional color variations are being increased, and some suppliers produce custom colors.

Price

In cost of materials and installation, aluminum and vinyl pvc fence are comparable at $26 to $40 per linear foot.

As always please contact us with any questions as we carry both premium vinyl fencing and aluminum fence, and there is always a fence installation specialist with at least twenty years experience available when the office is open. Your questions or comments are also welcome below.