Which fence is right for you in the battle of chain link vs. aluminum fence options? Starting, there aren’t many ways around this: chain link fencing isn’t that attractive — especially when compared to cost-effective, virtually maintenance-free fence materials like aluminum.
But what’s the difference between a chain link and an aluminum fence apart from aesthetics?
What are the benefits and downsides of each? And how do you know which fencing type is the best fit for your home?
This guide is going to take you through these questions and more. We will also look at some of the other common questions homeowners have when assessing the benefits of a chain link vs. an aluminum fence.
Which Is Your Best Fencing Option?
Let’s start by looking at how each fencing type rates according to three different factors: property values, customization, and maintenance.
Table of Contents
- Property Values
- Customization
- Maintenance
- Are Aluminum Fences Strong?
- Which is the Cheapest Type of Fence to Build?
- Which Type of Fence is Best?
1. Property Values Are Higher with an Aluminum Fence
A fence is an investment in your home, and the proper fencing can actually increase your property’s resale value. This is something to carefully consider when deciding on a chain link vs. aluminum fence for your home.
Chain link may offer a cost-effective solution in the short term, but in the long term, its low aesthetic appeal, maintenance requirements, and propensity to rust can actually lower your property value and increase the cost associated with upkeep.
Many homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and neighborhoods additionally have rules in place restricting the use of chain link fences as well.
Available in a wide selection of styles and colors and highly durable and weather-resistant, aluminum fencing is simply an investment that lasts.
2. Customizations are Limitless with an Aluminum Fence
What about customization options for your chain link vs. aluminum fence options?
Like chain link, aluminum fencing is available in near-limitless style and color options. And unlike chain link fences, aluminum fences are also available with various accessories to complement your home’s design.
Chain link is just what the name implies, offering little customization.
For example, aluminum fences from Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions in St. Louis are available in 7 standard colors and can even be customized further to match the customer’s exact requirements.
Are you looking for something that stands out?
Elegant accessories like ball caps, tri and quad finials, circles, and butterfly scrolls can be added to nearly any aluminum fence design. Plus, these accessories can be powder-coated to match the finish of your fence or may be ordered in a gold finish as well.
These are customization options that chain link fences don’t offer.
3. Maintenance is Minimal with an Aluminum Fence
There’s no comparison between chain link vs. aluminum fence options when it comes to maintaining your investment.
Unless coated in vinyl, even galvanized steel used in many chain link fences tends to rust over time. While most can last about 20 years, it will be a real eyesore by the end if it isn’t maintained correctly with treatments like mineral oil.
Aluminum fences, on the other hand, are virtually maintenance-free and highly durable. Depending on the fence type, a sturdy aluminum fence can last anywhere from 30 years to a lifetime, especially when you take a few minutes to properly care for your aluminum fence.
Featuring a powder-coated finish, aluminum fences such as those manufactured by Elite Fence Products are virtually impervious to the elements and do not require repainting. Plus, custom colors can be created to match your outdoor décor or architecture.
Are Aluminum Fences Strong?
They most certainly are.
Unlike chain link fences, aluminum fencing won’t rust over time. Aluminum fencing also resists corrosion, decay, insect infestation, and almost everything mother nature can throw at it.
While it doesn’t have the same impact resistance as ornamental steel fencing, it tends to be far more robust than materials like chain links or wood fencing.
Residential-grade aluminum fence rails can typically support around 350 lbs of pressure.
On the other hand, industrial-grade fencing models can withstand much more than that.
Overall, it’s easy to see why a suitable aluminum fence can quickly end up lasting you a lifetime.
Fence Cost Comparison Chart
Which is the Cheapest Type of Fence to Build?
Or some may ask what aluminum vs. chain link fence cost differences?
Well, chain link fencing is undoubtedly less costly upfront compared to other fencing types.
Just have a look at the HomeAdvisor chart provided by HomeLight below.
However, there are a few things to remember here.
First, aluminum fence installation comes in a wide range of prices. When you work with a trusted company that works exclusively with maintenance-free fencing options like aluminum, the costs can be lower than this chart shows.
Second, installation is not the only cost that comes with a fence. There are also ongoing maintenance costs, repairs, and replacements. Cleaning your fence can also take longer than you’d like if you choose the wrong materials.
When everything is considered when determining the benefits of chain link vs. aluminum fence options, it’s clear that aluminum fencing’s superior durability, longer lifespan, and practically zero upkeep make it the more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Which Type of Fence is Best, Aluminum or Chain-Link?
As you can see, when weighing the benefits of a chain link vs. an aluminum fence for your home, the clear winner is aluminum fencing.
It’s more durable, easier to maintain, has various customization options, and can increase your property value compared to chain link fencing. Plus, it’s more cost-effective over the long term.
So, if you’re on the fence about these two options, aluminum fencing is the way to go.
And if you’re in the St. Louis area, Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions is the fencing expert to talk to for your fencing project.
Learn more about the differences and affordable options in maintenance-free fencing from the experts at Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions in St. Louis. Visit our showroom or request a free, no-obligation estimate today.
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Undecided on which fence is best for your home? Download our free resource, The Ultimate Guide to Fencing, for help!
