Are you thinking about putting up a new fence? To get the best fence attainable, you must weigh the benefits and drawbacks of various fencing materials.
Selecting the correct type of fence for your residence and surroundings can affect aesthetic appeal and structural defense in both traditional mansions as well as modern buildings. After all, we all want our lawn to look better than our neighbors.
Corrugated metal is firm, lightweight, and rustproof; we can use it to add a distinctive style to the lawn in various ways.
Even though there are numerous conventional landscape construction materials, metal is becoming increasingly popular for homes and landscapes, notably for fencing purposes.
Compared to other composites, its longevity, high resource recovery, and renewability at the end of its use render it a sustainable building replacement in the landscape.
Corrugated metal is galvanized, which means it has been layered in zinc or a combination of zinc and other materials to endure rust and corrosion.
Corrugated metal is typically made of galvanized steel or corrugated galvanized iron. Still, it is also obtainable in metals such as Cor-Ten, aluminum, and copper, which are more costly and challenging to source locally.
There are plenty of benefits of using corrugated metal for a fence. But, the good attributes do not come alone! To make a well-informed judgment, let’s dive deep into the pros and cons.
Table of Contents
Pros of using corrugated metal for a fence
1. Simple Installation
These days more construction companies are credentialed to set up corrugated metal fences because the placement necessitates a simplistic set of competencies and expertise.
Because there are more contractor alternatives and less labor time, these processes are considerably less expensive to configure.
Corrugated metal fencing could also save you cash because it requires less equipment for installation, requiring only fasteners and fittings.
Corrugated metal fences are ideal for DIY (do it yourself) projects due to their ease of installation. By doing the manual labor yourself, you will save far more cash.
2. Affordable
Even as the cost of construction materials rises throughout 2021, corrugated metal remains a more reasonably priced material for fencing.
When considering cost, keep in mind that there is a wide range of quality (and thus price) in all material classes based on your choice.
Metal fencing does not necessitate the thickest metal gauge, so you can use a less expensive, 29-gauge corrugated panel for fencing your property.
Compared to conventional types of fencing, corrugated metal is frequently the most cost-effective.
This is particularly true when you consider not having to spend extra for metal preservation or having to replace the fence because it lasts much longer than other components.
3. Low Maintenance
Corrugated metal demands very little maintenance and will look good for many years. It is also one of the most affordable materials for construction work.
A corrugated metal fence does not require the same love and care as other varieties.
A wood fence requires more upkeep to look attractive and function properly. This can include the need to varnish, paint, or apply a sealant to help avoid moisture problems.
The panel also works well on a slanted landscape, so the basic framework for the fence is minimal.
4. Durable
When you decide on corrugated metal fencing, you receive a commodity that will last for a long time. It is a wise investment, with an average useful life of 25 to 30 years.
Corrugated metal fences in the middle range may last 30 to 40 years. With the most delicate protective layer and treatment, you can anticipate the fence to last 50 to 75 years for the heaviest frames.
One of the primary advantages of corrugated metal is that it is a rigid metal fence frame that will last no matter what weather you reside in.
It can withstand high temperatures, downpours, snow, and hail. Corrugated metal is also rust-resistant with a coating; hence, it will retain its desired appearance regardless of rain or shine.
The material is also rot and mold-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about the corrugated fence falling apart or becoming infested with pests and bugs.
5. Recyclable
Corrugated metal fences are durable and easily recyclable. Many corrugated metal items on the market are crafted of recycled metal and can be repurposed after use.
Consider recyclability when selecting the most sustainable raw materials for your construction and landscaping projects.
After three decades or more, evaluate how much waste you could save by recycling your corrugated metal.
Cons of using corrugated metal for a fence
1. Potential Of Rusting
Corrugated metal panels, as with any metal material, can oxidize and wear away if left unsupervised, so you will need to refinish and respray to replace the worn-off pigments.
Use the same galvanized items for your screws, bolts, and other fixings as you did for your metal fence to prevent any damage.
If you prefer a more rustic feel for your metal fence, you can use non-galvanized steel plates.
2. Reflects Sound
One of the most significant issues that people who have a corrugated metal fence face is that it creates loud noises to echo in the vicinity of your property.
This can be a concern if your children are playing outside or your dogs enjoy barking, as it creates a magnifying consequence.
Even though it provides excellent security for your property and adds a unique touch to your vegetable patch, it may cause some noise complaints.
You might consider adding some sound boards to the configuration to reduce sound wave reflection.
3. Inadequate Availability
Numerous local hardware shops do not stock corrugated metal fences. You may even have difficulty finding alternatives at larger superstores across the region.
That means you will have to buy the materials to make your panels when you want to put a fence, or you will have to purchase them online and pay the additional shipping costs.
Due to the limited availability of corrugated metal fencing, costs are very likely to be higher when compared to other material options.
The prefabricated alternative options will cost you around $100 per plate. If you choose to make your own, the corrugated sheets cost about $20 each (framing costs not included).
4. Sharp Edges
Because you make a fence out of sheet metal, you will soon realize that the item has jagged corners. You can avoid this drawback if you buy ready-made plates to configure.
If you have ever used an opener to open a vegetable can and noticed the crispness of the cap, you have a concept of what this item can do on a broader scale. If you only set up the corrugated plates, you risk an injury.
The rough edges of the thin metal panels are dangerous, notably when placed at a lower height.
Therefore, panel edges should be shaped to protect children or pets from slashing themselves on these corners.
5. Not Energy Efficient
Metal production necessitates a significant amount of energy. This high energy consumption is a major hindrance to environmentally friendly practices.
Steel, like other metals, is a non-renewable resource, despite being recyclable. No renewing process is available as it persists to be absorbed from the earth. This puts it at risk of depletion.
A corrugated metal fence is an incredible selection for making your property stand apart from other nearby houses.
However, if you value peace and tranquility, corrugated fencing may not be the best option for you!
You should feel more confident moving forward with purchasing your new fence now that you have studied and explored the pros and cons of a corrugated metal fence.
Consider each essential fact meticulously before searching and investing in the best fencing alternatives available in your area.
(Last Updated on September 8, 2022)
