How ornamental steel, aluminum and wrought iron fences compare in strength, rust, weight, look and care.
Three metals dominate ornamental fencing. Aluminum is light, does not rust and is the usual choice for pools and open yards. Steel is heavier and stronger, with thicker walls that suit security and commercial uses, and it needs coatings to resist rust. Wrought iron, in the true sense, is hand-forged and rare, and many fences called wrought iron are steel in an iron style.
The right metal depends on the job. Owners in Nashville choosing between them think about security, weight, upkeep and look. We explain how coatings work, how gates and posts must match the weight and where masonry columns fit. If you want an iron look with fewer worries, aluminum and powder-coated steel are common answers, and we show samples so you can compare finishes in person.
Light, rust-free and popular for pools.
Heavy and strong, with coatings to resist rust.
Hand-forged and traditional, often steel in iron style.
Aluminum does not rust, and steel needs coatings.
Heavier metals need stronger posts and hinges.
Scrollwork and finials suit traditional homes.
Aluminum FencesPowder-coated aluminum fences with picket and rail panels that will not rust, for pools, front yards, backyards and…Explore 
Woven Wire and Field FencesWoven wire field fences on steel or wood posts for pastures, large lots and farms, with braced corners…Explore 
Commercial FencingCommercial fencing for offices, retail, restaurants and mixed-use sites, with ornamental steel, aluminum, chain link and gates that…Explore 
Temporary Construction FencingTemporary construction and event fencing with chain link panels, windscreen and gates for job sites, storm cleanup, events…Explore Size a fence line, check a lifespan or ballpark a budget.
Fence Length and Materials CalculatorEnter your measurements to see linear feet, posts, rails, pickets, concrete and time to plan for yards, runs, pastures and gates.Try it 
How Long Will My Fence Last? CheckerPick a fence type, its age and the signs you see to learn where it is in its life and what to do next.Try it 
Fence Budget PlannerPick a fence, gate, repair or finishing job, set the length and add extras to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it Aluminum, since it does not rust. Steel and iron need coating care.
Steel and iron are heavier and stronger than aluminum.
Many fences sold under that name are steel. We tell you exactly what you are getting.
Comparison guideWood Fence TypesHow solid privacy, board-on-board, shadowbox, picket, split rail and horizontal slat wood fences differ in look, privacy, wind…Learn more 
Comparison guideCedar vs Treated PineHow cedar and pressure-treated pine fences differ in look, stability, rot resistance, finishing, cost and care.Learn more 
Comparison guideVinyl vs Wood vs AluminumHow vinyl, wood and aluminum fences compare in privacy, upkeep, strength, look and long-term value.Learn more 
Comparison guideStyles and Privacy LevelsHow solid, semi-private, open and rail fences compare for privacy, airflow, light and containment.Learn more Call us and describe your property. We will walk the line, talk through options and give you a clear written estimate.
