When to Replace an Aluminum Fence

Are you a homeowner and have you noticed that parts of your aluminum fence are in disrepair? Is your fence old but you aren’t quite sure if it’s time to truly invest in a new fence? Fencing Direct can offer you quality assistance and is here to make this decision easier for you. We want to spell it out in simple terms. 

A terrible trend in fencing took hold about 15-20 years ago. Aluminum fences manufactured overseas for sale at big box suppliers often had material defects and impurities that left them open to many problems. If you bought a fence from the wrong supplier in those times, it’s likely you’re looking at a fence that is falling apart right now.

At Fencing Direct, we are ready and waiting to help you with our versatile aluminum fencing selection. From our Puppy Picket aluminum fence to our Bradford Black, we have one of the most widespread selections of products perfect for any home. You won’t have to worry about these issues because Fencing Direct offers a lifetime warranty against defects.

Here are a few common issues that aluminum fences from bad suppliers have:

If There is Visible Rust or Corrosion

Take a look at your fence for rust or corrosion. If there is noticeable rust or corrosion on the fence’s structure, this is a sure sign that it is time for you to change your fence. 

This rust or corrosion usually means that the aluminum is contaminated. While steel and iron will rust, aluminum does not rust, so it is helpful to understand the difference between modern and older fences. Modern fence manufacturing technology has developed greatly, meaning new fences are less likely to have impurities or show signs of rusting.

If you notice rusting on your fence, this indicates that it was not made with modern materials and formulas.

If you see corrosion, it’s a sign of an old fence, and you are ready for a new aluminum one. This may also occur if your fence is located in an area with high moisture, including fences that are placed directly around swimming pools. Any scratching or chipping from long-term use can also add to this rusting. If you put off addressing a rusting fence, the rust could possibly get out of control and cause the entire fence to crumble or fall apart. Even if the rusting is unnoticeable, you should pay close attention to the bolts or corroding joints. Rusting or corroding joints can also factor into a reason why your fence may bend or tilt. Fencing Direct also provides new fencing with a limited lifetime warranty. You can visit Fencing Direct’s warranty page in our Resources to learn more. 

If There are Loose Posts, Rails, and Pickets

If there are loose posts, rails, or pickets you notice with your fence, you are due for a new aluminum fence. Loose posts, rails, and pickets may happen if the cement holding in the fence posts starts to corrode. These are the nuts and bolts that keep your fence up and running! 

While it is possible to reset the fence posts, it is very difficult because when you augur out the cement, you may damage your posts instead of fixing them.

If the Paint or Finish is Deteriorating 

If you can see the paint or finish of your fence is damaged or discolored, it is also an indication that it is time for a change and to replace your aluminum fence. While you may feel tempted to repaint the fence yourself, it is hard to repaint an aluminum fence because they are primarily coated in powder. Even if you try going in with a bit of spray paint, over time the appearance of the fence will not amount to the quality of the powder coating. 

Often it is common that older fences will begin to wear in paint or finish. If you buy one of Fencing Direct’s new aluminum fences, you can get a newly painted fence covered under a lifetime warranty if there are any future issues with the paint, aside from personally scratching it.

If There are Bent or Distorted Sections 

Damaged or exposed fence sections are a vital part of knowing whether or not you need a new one. Any part of your fence that is broken or distorted is a definite reason to buy a new aluminum fence.

Bent or distorted sections can cause tension on the rest of the fencing and posts if the pieces are not fitting correctly. Bending also indicates longer-term damage. 

Although it may seem more appealing to try fixing it yourself, you may actually cause more damage to the fence with excessive or incorrect movements. Not only does bending and distortion cause tension, but it puts torque on the other sections of the fence, leading to even more bending or distortion. 

If your fence is leaning, you may risk it falling over. Your fence may soon fall apart entirely. The longer you put off even the smallest of distortions in your fence, the greater risk there is of long-term failure in your fence.

If There are Missing Sections of the Fence

Of course, if parts of your fence are missing you probably should know that it is time to replace your aluminum fence. Coming from a safety and overall appearance perspective, there is no use for a fence if there are pieces of it missing, and if you can easily contact Fencing Direct to help you get set up with a brand new one!

We Can Help!

We hope that these few indicators help guide you if you are debating whether or not to replace your fence with a new aluminum one. If any of these points seem to resonate with your fence’s current structure and build, we would suggest looking into a new aluminum fence. We can guarantee one thing though, that if or when you decide to buy a new aluminum fence, Fencing Direct can provide you with the best services and quality fences that you definitely will not regret the new investment!