Fence Contractors in Seattle, WA

Seattle Aluminum Fencing

The classic wood fence isn't going away anytime soon. Its relatively inexpensive installation cost, unmatched look, and tradition make it a great choice for many homeowners. However, it's no longer the end-all, be-all of residential fencing, particularly in an area like Seattle, where rain and wind can quickly take a toll on wood warping panels and cause screws and other fasteners to loosen and, eventually, fail. Aluminum fences are rust-proof, rain-proof, pest and fire resistant, and when properly installed, all but invulnerable, creating what should be the last fence you'll ever build.

A Fencing Revolution
This type of performance, as you might expect, comes at a greater cost, but often it's a manageable one. The average wood fencing project costs about $2,800, while the same aluminum fence might run you about $3,400. You'll notice the difference, but aluminum fencing is hardly cost-prohibitive, especially for homeowners who are in it for the long haul and know the value of doing it right the first time. Keep in mind, for example, that wood fencing will need regular maintenance and additional sealant in the years ahead that will absorb these initial savings.

Options and Designs
Most lines of aluminum fencing focus on black, although more customized coatings and colors are certainly out there. You can also find aluminum fences with more of a bend toward privacy and/or security. These less common lines of aluminum fencing also tend to be more expensive or have more limited warranties. It's never a bad idea to look at what's out there, but if you're looking for a more conventional privacy fence, vinyl might be a better substitute. It will still hold up to the onslaught of the Seattle winter, but will better approximate the look and feel of a wood fence.

Other Metal Fences
In Seattle, aluminum fences generally mean the recent lines of fencing that challenge traditional, wood-paneled fencing. It is, by no means, however, the only metal fence installation in Seattle. Both chain link and wrought iron fences are actually more popular, despite the recent surge in aluminum fencing. Plus, they serve different functions usually for homeowners of different socio-economic classes.

Chain link fences are among the cheapest fences you can install (average $2,000). They are generally used for pet containment and other basic needs, although you can certainly upgrade them. One Seattle homeowner chose to install a high-end black chain link fence. This is what she told us: "We wanted to be able to enjoy the large trees behind our house and black chain link is about as ?invisible' as you can get. It's worth the extra cost." Chain link can be made from a number of different materials. Aluminum won't rust, but steel will be stronger and probably cheaper.

Wrought iron fences are generally for security and beauty and tend to be installed in homes with larger properties. They also make for great landscaping additions in conjunction with stone walls. The average wrought iron fence costs $5,000. True wrought iron is, by definition, custom-made, although there are also some pretty stunning new iron alloys that call themselves "wrought iron." Indeed, these new wrought iron fencing products offer nearly the exact same look and benefits without the need for highly specialized wrought iron craftsmen.

Contractors
A good Seattle fence builder is perhaps the greatest asset you can have when installing your residential fence. Soil consistency and high winds common to the Puget Sound area means special considerations will need to be taken, no matter what type of fence you choose to install. Local knowledge is always critical to fence building. Plus, these professionals can give you a more in-depth consultation about which fencing material is right for your property and your fencing needs. DIY fence installation is not impossible or even implausible, but it's more difficult and involved than most homeowners imagine. Sweat and toil will not be enough to build a quality residential fence. Even experienced homeowners are unlikely to create the look and durability of a Seattle metal fence contractor.