Driving around your neighborhood, you may have noticed the different fencing options. While wood is traditionally the most popular fencing material, you may have noticed an uptick in metal fences. Maybe you think it&#;s time you should get a metal fence, too! Having a metal fence can benefit your home. Not only will it add texture to the outside of your home, but it can also be a helpful deterrent for intruders and animals.
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Even if you live in an area where wood fences are common, a metal fence may be a great option for you. If you have small yards, a metal fence will give you the advantage of having something visible and protective, but also keep your yard as open as possible.
Read on for more on the history of metal fences, as well as our top reasons why you need to get a metal fence for your property!
In the earliest days of our country, only the wealthiest could afford to import wrought ironwork for their properties. However, by the early s, blacksmithing grew domestically and ornamental iron fencing became more accessible. When you picture the traditional wrought-iron fence, you&#;re probably envisioning the style that peaked in popularity during the Victorian era. That&#;s when foundries started casting and mass-producing elaborate pickets, posts, and scroll details making them more widely available.
Nowadays, most metal fences are made of aluminum or steel, even if they&#;re designed to look like traditional wrought iron. Even wrought iron&#;s classic glossy-black paint has been upgraded to a longer-lasting, multistep powder-coating process that greatly reduces maintenance. Along with the classic steel, many homeowners opt for aluminum or chain-link fencing. We&#;ll break down the top 5 reasons for each of these metal fence options.
The main reason families install fencing around their homes is for security. But the fence isn&#;t to prevent intruders, but rather to stop people and pets from leaving! If you have young children or pets, this is likely a concern for you.
When you install a chain-link fence, you can feel secure knowing that your children and pets can play outside safely and securely. Chain link is a great choice, especially versus wrought iron fencing, which could allow smaller animals to squeeze through.
Chain link fencing is very affordable, especially when you compare it to the cost of other types of fencing. Rather than using lots of material, a chain link fence uses thin wires crossed over to form a strong unit. By cutting down on material costs, these fences are much more affordable. Vinyl, wood, and wrought iron are considerably pricier, making chain link fencing a great choice for the savvy buyer.
Chain link fences can be installed far quicker than wrought iron or even vinyl fencing, meaning installation is typically less expensive. Additionally, should you need to replace your fence decades down the line, it is quick and simple. No matter how your fence got damaged (which is rare), it typically takes just minutes to replace individual sections.
Traditional fencing made out of wood requires a significant amount of maintenance. That&#;s because as a natural material, wood will eventually rot, and its paint will peel. Chain link fencing is made out of metal and coated with a powder to keep water out. Thus, it&#;s protected from rusting. This barrier means that your chain link fence is more like a manmade material than a natural metal, requiring practically no maintenance of any kind.
Chain link fencing can last for years because it&#;s incredibly sturdy and resistant to both damage and harsh weather conditions. While natural fences made out of wood or bamboo tend to degrade as they age, a metal fence that is protected using a powder or paint layer should stand the test of time. When you consider the long lifespan of a chain-link fence, the cost per year goes down considerably. Thus, making it an even more affordable investment in your home.
Both chain link and wrought iron fences are available in a limited number of styles. Conversely, aluminum fencing can look classical or modern, understated or ornamental. Aluminum fencing adapts easily to changes in the landscape, allowing property owners to avoid gaps and unusual transitions. This highly customizable material is a great way to make a statement with your fence.
Wrought iron fencing is some of the most expensive on the market. And while chain-link fencing is relatively cheap, it&#;s not as visually appealing. Not only is aluminum fencing less expensive than the wrought iron it often mimics, but the lifetime cost of ownership is lower, as well.
Unlike wrought iron fencing which can rust and corrode, aluminum fencing is largely impervious to the elements. The chemical composition of aluminum resists rust Plus it won&#;t fade in the sun or rot over time!
Since aluminum does not rot, rust, or fade, you will likely perform little to no maintenance over the lifetime of the fence. Additionally, it stands up well to high winds, strong storms, and blowing debris, typically without requiring touch-ups or repairs.
Remember all those aluminum cans you dutifully toss into the recycling bin? Many of them are reused to produce aluminum fencing. That makes this one of the most sustainable fencing materials available. For those who are looking for sustainable options for their home, aluminum fencing is a brilliant choice.
A steel fence can stand up to the elements and will last for years and years. These fences are very resistant to rust and retain their attractive looks for a long time. Their strength makes them great for safety and security, too.
Steel fences will make your property look more attractive by adding authority and stateliness. Wrought iron fences and gates are beautiful and add to the overall aesthetic of any home or business.
One of the most important benefits of a steel fence is how easy it is to include an automatic gate. You get the protection and peace of mind of a fully fenced-in property, plus the convenience of automation. More and more people are choosing automatic gates for this very reason. They want to keep their property safe while retaining the ease of coming/going with the push of a button.
Once a steel fence has been installed, there&#;s very little maintenance needed. They stand up to wind, rain, snow, hail, and pretty much anything else. And unlike wood, there&#;s no reason to worry about rotting or insects. In fact, there is no need to paint or stain these fences either.
If you plan on selling your home or property anytime soon, a steel fence will be a bonus to many potential buyers. Especially if it includes an upgraded automatic gate! It adds curb appeal and gives a better first impression of your home or property.
As a homeowner, landowner, or business owner, you&#;ll naturally want to increase the value of your house, protect it, and keep it looking great. As you can see from the lists above, metal fencing has certain undeniably attractive qualities. Metal fencing is a popular choice due to its ease of maintenance and appealing, modern appearance. Its strong, robust construction provides stability, durability, and an attractive appearance to your property that outlasts any other form of fencing. Reach out to Bravo Fence Company today to get a metal fence for your property.
Why should I consider a metal fence for my property?
Metal fences, whether chain link, aluminum, or steel, offer various benefits, including enhanced security, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They can also be a practical choice for those with small yards who want a visible yet open fencing option.
What is the history of metal fences?
Initially, only the wealthy could afford wrought iron fences, but by the s, domestic blacksmithing made ornamental iron fencing more accessible. Nowadays, most metal fences are made of aluminum or steel, with improved coatings for reduced maintenance.
What are the advantages of chain link fencing?
Chain link fences provide security, affordability, easy installation, low maintenance, and durability. They are an excellent choice for families with children or pets due to their safety features and cost-effectiveness.
Why choose aluminum fencing?
Aluminum fencing is versatile, cost-effective, strong, durable, and environmentally friendly. It offers a wide range of styles, is less expensive than wrought iron, and requires minimal maintenance over its lifetime.
What makes steel fencing a good option?
Steel fences are challenging, heavy-duty, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to pair with automatic gates. They require low maintenance, withstand various weather conditions, and can increase the property&#;s value, making them an attractive choice for both security and visual appeal.
Are metal fences suitable for small yards?
Yes, metal fences, especially chain links, and aluminum, are ideal for small yards. They provide visibility and protection while keeping the yard open, making them a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice.
How do metal fences compare to traditional wood fencing in terms of maintenance?
Metal fences, such as chain links, aluminum, and steel, generally require less maintenance than traditional wood fencing. They are resistant to rust, rot, and fading, ensuring a longer lifespan with minimal upkeep.
Can I install an automatic gate with a metal fence?
Yes, metal fences, particularly steel, are well-suited for automatic gates. Adding an automatic gate enhances security and convenience, allowing for easy entry and exit with the push of a button.
An Overview of Sheet Metal for Architectural Purposes
As architects carefully draw up their visions of new buildings and restoration projects, intentional details can make significant visual impacts in terms of overall aesthetic appeal. You can invoke a timeless, intriguing look with decorative sheet metal. Ornamental sheet metal can be employed in many different ways to achieve an original touch, add creativity, evoke elegance, or restore historical prestige. Further, it can provide functional purpose with respect to sound absorption, reflection, drainage, practical use, and historical reverence. Architectural sheet metal can accomplish utility goals and achieve artistic flair simultaneously.
Different types of sheet metal can achieve varying visual effects while additionally providing enhanced advantages. In performing restoration, or historical projects that require matching traditional materials, you can preserve the original sheet metal to retain authenticity. Yet, in accomplishing modern architecture, there is increased freedom of choice, as follows:
Aluminum sheet metal presents many style choices, as there is an extensive variety of surface finishes and hues available. As aluminum is flexible and mouldable, designs can be crafted with precision. It can be used for exterior and interior projects alike, from wall panels to sconces.
Brass is composed of copper and zinc, offering a telltale bright and shiny gold-like appearance. This popular choice is strong, durable, and lightweight. Since it involves copper in its composition, it is similarly malleable and can be used for a wide range of decorative purposes, such as stamping. Use it for small decorative fixtures and trims for its exquisite appearance.
Bronze consists of copper, tin, and other metals and has a distinctive metallic brown appearance. Bronze is stronger than copper, and it also resists corrosion better. Use it to add remarkable touches to small panels.
Popular for its initial metallic reddish-brown beauty, copper provides an unmatched elegance for any building. It lasts hundreds of years in some cases and eventually oxidizes to a solid bright green. It&#;s incredibly strong, weatherproof, and corrosion-resistant. Additionally, it is a soft and malleable metal, such that it can take on nearly any design you wish. You can use copper for large showcases, such as wall panels, roof tiles, doors, gates, and window frames. However, this stunning metal is ideal for delicate finials, fixtures, trims, and other decorative items.
is made by wrapping steel or iron in a protective zinc exterior. Thus, galvanized steel gives off a luminous, metallic surface that reflects and plays with the light.
Stainless steel is a more contemporary sought-after material, reflecting a classic, modern and clean aesthetic. Since it is an alloy of chromium, nickel, iron, and other metals, it is very strong. Choose stainless steel for high-quality exterior decoration, such as window grills and door panels.
Zinc has magnificent artistic appeal as it provides a luminous, bluish-white surface. Incorporate this reliable, durable material for roof coverings and wall claddings.
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Aesthetic decisions regarding the design of various buildings also include the processes the metal goes through before being cut or stamped. These operations transform different metals in various ways:
involves heating steel to an extremely high temperature and subsequently shaping it. Although it is an easy process, it does not have the degree of precision of cold rolling since the steel will shrink as it cools.
changes steel into a thin sheet that is extremely strong. Then, it&#;s washed and treated. The result is a smooth and malleable steel that can be shaped into any pattern easily.
The Beauty of Stamped, Decorative and Ornamental Sheet Metal
Architectural sheet metal can be designed and employed in a variety of ways &#; intriguing details, eloquent and beautiful accents, full and breathtaking panels, or in intricate and delicate fixtures. There are four main advantages of choosing decorative sheet metal to embellish an interior space or exterior surface:
Ornamental sheet metal inspires astonishing visuals which vary depending on the preferred type of metal, placement, design, and style. Historical and contemporary employment have notably included sheet metal roof tiles, domes, steeples, cupolas, roof finials, statues, leaders and leader heads, urns, balustrades, and trims.
Sheet metal is well-known for its ability to resist many different types of weather conditions and elements. It is treated with anti-corrosion and UV-resistant chemicals, making it perfect for outdoor projects.
There are many different types of sheet metal you can incorporate into building styles. Traditionally, sheet metal copper and sheet metal brass decorated areas such as roofs to trims. Contemporary materials include stainless steel, aluminum and zinc. The choice of material will play the main role in how precise the shapes and cuts will be. It will additionally alter the colour and finish of the project.
Sheet metal accommodates both traditional and modern styles. Likewise, it can be used to restore old work, or incorporate similar architectural elements into aged buildings.
Decorative sheet metal is not only aesthetically pleasing but it also provides incredible functionality. So, it can be incorporated into the architectural design with intention, as follows:
Architectural sheet metal can be designed and installed in such a way that it provides a sound barrier between high traffic areas and interior spaces. Applications include placing perforated metal panels between walls or ceilings and constructing installations along exterior walls or as free-standing walls.
Flattened expanded metal or perforated metal can be used in lieu of solid doors, gates, or windows. Maintain privacy and security without compromising light flow!
Stainless steel, galvanized steel, and zinc are naturally reflective, making them ideal for canopies, handrails, doorknobs, fences, and gates.
Flattened, expanded metal or perforated metal provides decorative spaces for rainwater to flow through without compromising the practicality of items such as benches or stairs.
Architectural sheet metal is excellent for practical uses such as lighting fixtures, door knockers or knobs, stairs, chairs, and benches.
Decorative sheet metal restores, renews, or recreates historical additions to buildings, structures, fixtures or sculptures.
Types of Architectural Projects where Sheet Metal Is a Good Choice
Artisans carefully craft decorative sheet metals into various constructions, shapes, figures, or stamps. In general, sheet metal can be cut in precise patterns to achieve a specific look or construction. You can also use perforated or corrugated sheet metal in different colours and styles to design the effects you want. Although custom sheet metal fabrication is always possible, there are many general projects that sheet metal can be involved in:
Metal sheets are installed directly on exterior or interior walls to achieve different looks and styles. It beautifies the space and creates a final custom look based on its colour, finish, and reflective properties. Many dividers or walls also have perforated designs or corrugation to add to the functionality and elevate the space.
Sheet metal can be used to cover columns in intriguing ways. First, you can use them to seamlessly cover a circular, cubical, rectangular, crescent, or hexagonal column. Second, they can be perforated to let light shine through to a beautiful effect.
An open-concept door or window uses perforated or flattened expanded metal to provide privacy while letting natural light through. Decorative sheet metal can also provide a stamped or corrugated style for a solid door or window shutters.
Fences and gates are functional assets on many properties. By using perforated sheet metal rather than the typical metal rods, you can achieve elegant curb appeal. When employing sheet metal in fences and gates, sound absorption and privacy are added perks.
Large undertakings involving sheet metal call attention and admiration to structure. Typical architectural projects include roofs, cupolas, domes, and steeples.
Showcase of Heather & Little's Sheet Metal Project Gallery
Be sure to visit our online sheet metal project gallery to see the diverse projects we have completed for clients over the years. From refurbishing aircrafts to restoring delicate items, Heather & Little Ltd. has earned a sterling reputation for having a Midas touch when it comes to ornamental sheet metal.
For example, Cree more Springs Brewery trusted our team to restore an original brew kettle to its original copper sheen. We repurposed the brew kettle with a custom-designed video monitor for use at the business.
The World Peace Monument in Toronto is a stunning testament to a perfect idea. So, you can imagine how excited we were when we received a commission to restore the metal statue. Our metalworkers first created a spherical brass frame to support the globe. We then created a copper skin to renew the look of this national treasure.
These are just two examples of our custom sheet metal work.
At Heather & Little Ltd, our team specializes in creating decorative sheet metal for a wide range of architectural projects. Our artisans bring your vision to life, with our high-quality sheet metal materials, flawless design execution, and precise cuts and stamps. We will carefully craft and construct sheet metal to exceed your expectations.
Our team can recreate or restore historical architecture, ranging from cathedral domes to government buildings. Skilled and experienced in a wide range of materials, our pros retain the original historical materials, such as brass, bronze, copper, or gold when performing reconstructions. We also maintain the integrity and intention of the initial work.
Further, Heather & Little Ltd is at the forefront of metal fabrication companies for contemporary materials and design. We have extensive knowledge in construction of unique, modern designs from new materials. Aluminum, galvanized steel, tin, or zinc are all exceptional choices for creating strong, lightweight fabrications that hold up to various conditions.
Interested to know more? Have questions about sheet metal for architectural purposes? Feel free to contact us online or call us toll free at 1.866.674.
Sources:
https://heatherandlittle.com/blog/classic-architectural-styles-with-sheet-metal-fabrication/
https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/what-is-architectural-sheet-metal
https://www.accurateperforating.com/blog/architectural-uses-perforated-metal-panels
https://wfnorman.com/ornamental-sheet-metal-a-brief-history/
https://acontario.ca/files/res/79/HIStory%20+%20HERitage%20Presentation%20Text,%20updated,%20June%.pdf
http://locker.com.au/blog/architecture/how-decorative-sheet-metal-could-improve-your-business-design/
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