Fencing is as much a part of your property’s exterior décor as the paint and architecture style you choose. It thus is something you should carefully consider. There are many fencing materials and styles on the market.
To boost the chances of making the right choice, it is advisable to match your architectural style to the fencing style. One fencing material that cuts across most architectural styles is metal. It, for instance, makes as perfect a fencing material for those looking for a modern minimalist style as it does for those intent on industrial fences.
The primary concern for people who choose metal fencing is its ability to withstand the outdoor elements to which it is exposed. Metal is highly prone to corrosion, rust, and warping. Fortunately, manufacturers now have different protective finishes that can be used on the metal fences to boost their durability and ability to withstand the most adverse of outdoor elements. Here are some of these finishes.
Epoxy Coating
This coating comprises a primer and finishing coat. It is meant for the protection of metal from oxidation and corrosion. It is quite resistant to condensation, petroleum products, alkalis, acids, and friction. An epoxy coating will also protect its underlying metal from particle abrasion, impact and temperature variations.
It is, however, used for fencing in cold climates since prolonged UV exposure might compromise the coating.
Hot-Dip Galvanizing
This is used on steel and iron fences and gates exposed to UV rays and those near salty water. In the process, the metal will be dipped in hot zinc that forms a thick and durable layer around its surface. This layer protects the steel and iron from corrosion and is, in most cases, the sacrificial anode.
Hot-dip galvanized metal products can be recycled and are highly resistant to impact, turbulence, and temperature changes.
Powered Coating
This encompasses the use of powdered paint containing specialized pigments, resins, and filters. The powder particles will be electrostatically charged so that they are attracted to the metal surface. The attraction holds them in place before they are cured under heat.
Powder coating is an inexpensive protective finish. It is also aesthetically pleasing since it comes in different colors. The finish does not, however, offer as much protection from most outdoor elements.
Metal Plating
This process comprises the coating of your metal with a thin layer of aluminum, nickel, or PTFE. Metal plating will coat the underlying metal under a chemical bath that guarantees all nooks and crannies are sufficiently covered.
The plating improves your metal fence’s surface friction, corrosion resistance, durability, and appearance. It might, unfortunately, not smooth the imperfections on the underlying metal since it is quite thin.
With the above options, your metal fence or gate is sure to last for ages irrespective of your environment. Thankfully, you also have a range of customization alternatives for the fence that will make your fence stand out. You can opt for exceptional patterns, fencing brackets and post shapes to add some beauty to your fence.
