Metal vs Wood Fence: Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron, and Wood Compared

Metal fences are having a moment. Aluminum and steel ornamental fencing has dropped in price as imports have expanded, and the look — clean, formal, low-maintenance — fits modern homes and pool enclosures perfectly. Here's how the math actually shakes out against traditional wood.

Cost per linear foot installed

• Aluminum ornamental: $40–$70/ft
• Steel ornamental: $50–$90/ft
• Wrought iron (true wrought, not steel): $80–$150/ft
• Wood privacy (cedar): $35–$55/ft
• Wood picket: $20–$30/ft

Lifespan and maintenance

Aluminum: 30+ years, touch up paint chips occasionally. Steel (powder-coated): 25–35 years, watch for rust at scratches. Wrought iron: 50+ years but needs paint every 5–8 years to prevent rust. Wood: 15–25 years with regular staining.

Where metal wins

1. Front yards and street-facing runs (formal aesthetic)
2. Pool enclosures (code compliance, no rotting in chlorine spray)
3. Modern or contemporary homes (clean lines)
4. High-end neighborhoods (resale value)
5. Climates where wood rots fast

Where wood wins

1. Privacy — metal pickets always have gaps
2. Traditional or rustic homes
3. Budget-conscious projects
4. DIY installs — metal panels are harder to retrofit on uneven ground

Aluminum vs steel specifically

Aluminum is lighter, won't rust, and is the better residential default. Steel is stronger (security applications, very tall fences) but costs more and needs vigilant rust management. For 95% of residential use cases, aluminum is the right metal choice.

The hybrid option

A common high-end choice: aluminum fencing on the street-facing front yard for curb appeal, wood privacy fencing on the side and back yards for cost and screening. You get the formal look where it matters and the practical privacy where you need it.