Aluminum and steel fences generally have a long life, especially if the metal is given a protective powder coating or, in the case of aluminum and stainless steel, is anodized. But fences do need to be looked after and repaired if they are damaged in any way. The reality is that if you don’t maintain your fences your investment will be compromised.
Even the best quality fences can fall foul of harsh weather and shifting ground, and gates can be adversely affected by heavy use or abuse.
Common Causes of Damage to Aluminum and Steel Fences
The most common cause of damage to metal fencing is wear and tear, quite simply because fences are open to the elements. Severe weather conditions like hurricanes and major windstorms can uproot posts and batter sections of fencing, and lightning can also damage a portion of the fence if it gets struck. Even the typically wet weather we have in Georgia from late fall through winter can cause rust to set in on mild steel fences and trigger corrosion on aluminum and even tough stainless steel fences.
Even though aluminum oxide that forms of the surface of aluminum actually protects it, it can corrode under certain circumstances, often in the form of pitting. This won’t usually affect the strength of the fence, but it can look really ugly.
The natural movement of the soil the fence is seated in can cause posts to move, and as a result of this, result in sections of fences shifting. Clay can be particularly problematic, but both drought and heavy rain can also cause damage over time. Damage from fallen branches and uprooted trees can be severe, as can damage cause by large animals and vehicles smashing into fences.
If gate hinges are lubricated regularly, or if people hang on the gate or it is knocked out of alignment for some reason, the gate might need to be repaired or even replaced.
Steel Fence Primed for Paint
Finished Steel Fence Restoration
Decide Whether to Replace or Repair
The best way to ensure your aluminum and steel fences always look good and last a very long time is with regular maintenance. If you don’t have time to do repairs and upgrades yourself, hire a reputable company that offers this service to do it for you. If you haven’t been vigilant about maintenance and find that you failed to notice signs of wear and tear and damage, then fall is a good time to assess what needs to be done before the rains come.
- Examine the fence and gates to see if any posts have moved or been uprooted (even partially) and whether any of the rails or loose or missing.
- If fencing has been painted, identify any areas where the paint is peeling or chipped. Repair before it starts to rust.
- Look for evidence of rust or corrosion; the sooner this is treated the better. If it isn’t serious or extensive, you can try sanding the rust off, using a rust neutralizer to stop the rust spreading, and then painting with a rust-inhibiting primer and paint. If it is extensive, call in the professionals.
- Sometimes fencing is just dirty, stained or grimy, and a good clean will restore it to its near-original condition. You might be able to clean the fence yourself, but if it’s in very bad condition pressure washing might be a more suitable option.
If an aluminum or steel fence has been damaged, it’s important to assess whether it is worth using homeowners insurance to repair or replace the fence. It really depends on how serious the damage is.
If your aluminum fence is corroded or your steel fence is rusting, Natural Enclosures will restore it to prevent any further damage and get it looking its best again.