How Long Does a Metal Fence Last?
When you’re thinking about installing a new fence, durability is definitely one of the factors on your list of must-haves. No one wants to install a fence this year, only to have to replace it in a year or two.
One of the common questions we get in the fence business related to durability is how long does a metal fence last. Here’s what you need to know.
It Depends On the Metal
Most of the metal fences that are installed around the world are galvanized steel – but not all of them are.
Stainless steel in grades 316 and 304 are both used for fences in some parts of the world, as is aluminum. Some mild steel fences might not be galvanized at all. Different types of metals have different expected life spans and pros and cons, so you always need to define what kind of metal fence you’re talking about.
And How It’s Treated
Another big factor in answering the question of how long does a metal fence last is if and how it’s been treated to protect it against corrosion. Some fence systems are hot dipped with zinc alum instead of ordinary zinc, which also extends the lifespan of the finished product.
Mild steel fences should usually be hot dip galvanized at a minimum, although some systems are metallized using a hot metal spray. Duplex coating – which means either coating the fence with a powder-coated surface or a paint system designed for metal fencing can also extend the lifespan of a metal fence.
And Where It’s Installed
The next factor in how long a metal fence will last is where it is installed.
Metal fences that are installed inland, far from the sea and not in industrial environments will last a very long time, provided they aren’t subjected to standing water.
Metal fences that are installed at the coast can corrode very quickly, particularly if they are not hot dip galvanized and not treated correctly.
And the Installation Process
The final factor in determining how long your metal fence will last is how it is installed.
A professional fence company will ensure that all welds and cuts are properly treated to prevent rust. They will use adequate-sized footings and high-quality fittings and hardware. All of these things will help to extend the lifespan of your metal fence system.
A Very Long Lasting Fence System
The good news is that most metal fence systems will have a very long trouble-free lifespan.
If they’re not vandalized or damaged accidentally, a metal fence that is correctly installed in a non-corrosive environment could last 20 years or more.
This may vary according to the type of metal fence you’re installing, but you can always ask the fence company that is installing it or the manufacturer for information about the specific product’s lifespan. Many fence manufacturers will even give you a written warranty for several years, which gives you peace of mind that any future issues will be taken care of.
Done correctly, however, metal fences are one of the most durable fence types out there, and they’re definitely worth considering if you want a low-maintenance fence option.
