Aluminium Tubular Fencing vs. Steel Fencing

If you’re trying to decide between choosing an aluminium or steel tubular fence, it’s important to have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Both materials have their own unique advantages and disadvantages and you should know your way around them before making the final decision. Here we outline vital information you may need to pick between the two:

Budget

Before exploring technical aspects of the aluminium, let’s talk budget: Aluminium fencing is more expensive than steel.

Longevity

Aluminium fencing won’t rust because it lacks iron which relies on oxygen and water to create rust. This only adds to the longevity of your investment in your home’s appearance. Steel tubular fencing can be prone to rust if it is within 3km of the coastline or around a salt chlorinated swimming pool.

Environment

If you’re worried about your carbon footprint, you’ll be happy to know recycling aluminium only consumes 5% of the energy required to forge new aluminium. This makes it much more recyclable than steel!

Strength

Of course, no building material comes without some drawbacks. Because of its ductility and lower density (in comparison to iron or steel), aluminium tubular fencing doesn’t provide the same level of strength. So, if you’re in the market for some security fencing, tubular steel fencing may be a better option for your needs.

Steel’s most attractive feature is its impressive strength. It stands up to severe storm and flooding conditions without bending or buckling and because of its strength, steel makes a better option if security is important to you.

Weight

If you’re looking at a DIY project and worried by the weight of steel compared to aluminium, you may choose aluminium fencing.

Appearance

Yet, if style and aesthetics are what you are after, then both steel and aluminium fencing have a wide array of styles and colours available.