How to Frame Corrugated Metal Fence?
When most people think of privacy fences, they think of wood fences, vinyl fences, composite fences and possibly chain link fences with slats.
However, there are a few other options out there, and corrugated metal fence is one of those. Let’s take a closer look at what corrugated metal fence is, how it’s constructed, and other tips you need to ensure you get a fence that will look great and last.
What Is a Corrugated Metal Fence?
Corrugated metal fence is a type of fence that uses the same kind of profiled metal sheets that are usually used for metal roofs for fencing.
These kinds of panels are available in a wide range of colors and profile designs, and they’re made to stand up to the elements, so they make a great fence material. They’ve also been used vertically for years to clad the sides of many kinds of buildings. So this is not all that new an application!
Of course, your corrugated metal fence is more than just the fence panels. You will need a structure to support your fence too.
How to Frame Corrugated Metal Fence – Your Options
You might be tempted to simply attach your corrugated metal fence panels to your posts, join them together and call it a day. However, there are several reasons that’s not a good idea.
One is that the metal tends to have raw cut edges, which are not only sharp and potentially dangerous but will also probably rust faster than the rest of the panel.
Another is that any solid fence acts like a sail, catching the wind. This means that the first time you have high winds, your fence is very likely to take off, never to be seen again.
Finally, it just doesn’t look great! A well-constructed corrugated metal fence looks stylish and modern. Not like it was put together during a weekend bender by your half-blind uncle!
Most roofing manufacturers will be able to offer you a variety of flashings and pre-bent metal parts, but these aren’t really suitable for this kind of fence because they’re just not strong enough to hold up the panels properly.
The best materials to use as the frame for your fence are angle iron or channel iron, which you can screw or rivet your panels to securely, and which are strong and sturdy enough to hold your fence up even when it’s windy.
You will also need fence posts, which in this case could be any round or square fence post that is strong enough for the job, along with the standard fittings that are usually used to attach panels to them. Ornamental fence posts and brackets or chain link fence posts with brace bands could both be viable options.
As corrugated metal fence systems have become more popular, some suppliers have also created corrugated metal fence kits that include all the frame components and even steel posts to attach them to. Whether you choose to DIY or purchase those products is up to you.
Finally, you could opt for a custom-built wood structure for your corrugated metal fence. Most wood fence contractors should be able to create a design that will give you the look you want.
Tips for a Better Corrugated Metal Fence
Once you’ve decided on the structural design for your corrugated metal fence, there are a few things you should know that will improve the look of your fence:
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Corrugated metal fences might not be as popular as some other types of privacy fence systems, but they can look amazing when done right. Hopefully, these tips will make designing and constructing your own fence a little easier, but you can also look for contractors in your area that do this kind of fence. It’s getting more and more popular, so there’s sure to be someone who can help!
