A landscape architect once told Architectural Digest, “Fences are often the least desirable element in the landscape.” We get why some designers might have this opinion about certain fence styles. For example, old-school fences made from traditional building materials like wood can be heavy-looking, they might block the view beyond the property line, or clash with the home’s design aesthetic. Not to mention, like all wood products in outdoor applications, wood fencing will eventually deteriorate after long-term exposure to the elements. The result is a short-lived fence that is not attractive to look at. But it doesn’t have to be like this.

Savvy homeowners are looking to updated options like aluminum fencing to safely enclose their yards. Offering a contemporary and sophisticated look, aluminum fencing can bring lasting style and performance to the perimeter line of modern homes. Plus, easy to install and maintain-aluminum options from today's leading fencing manufacturers are everything homeowners are looking for.

Lending lasting style points on modern properties

Modern outdoor spaces are often characterized by the use of mixed materials (like metals), organic textures, geometric shapes and sustainable furniture across expansive, open decks to help the homeowner evoke a connection to nature. This is where the clean, sleek lines and modern ethos of aluminum fencing comes into play. Its streamlined appearance can easily melt into the background-this option does not distract from the harmonious feel of the outdoor living space or the view beyond the property line. Aluminum fence systems can also be customized to meet different desired heights and widths, offering flexibility to complement various outdoor design elements that a homeowner may want to highlight. Homeowners can also customize the fence panel and gate style to differentiate their home from the others on the street.

Aluminum fencing provides enhanced durability and low maintenance appeal

More than just a stylistic choice, homeowners can count on aluminum fencing for its proven performance in nearly any type of weather. Tough and durable, aluminum fencing will sidestep any issues associated with moisture absorption (like rotting and rusting). Because of its proven performance in nearly any type of weather, aluminum fencing is a smart option for modern homes located in coastal environments or regions that experience significant rain or snowfall. Further preserving the integrity of the fence, leading manufacturers will apply a powder-coated finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and UV protection. What's more, the resilient nature of aluminum fencing directly translates to its low maintenance appeal. Aluminum fencing only requires occasional cleaning with a hose and a gentle soap, which fits well with the low maintenance preferences of most busy modern homeowners.

Aluminum fencing that features a rackable design resolves installation challenges  

No matter how beautiful the modern home, it's unlikely that the yard will be one with perfectly flat or even ground. This adds a layer of difficulty to the fence installation process. For example, a property with rolling hills and sloping terrain might require a step design, which either creates a gap at the bottom of the fence or an uneven top-both are unattractive options. However, a fully rackable design allows aluminum fences to match up to 10 degrees of grade change while maintaining an even top and bottom rail. Modern aluminum fences that are rackable also reduce the amount of planning and labor typically involved in installations on sloping or uneven terrain. Plus, fence panels that can adjust to terrain will not rub together, which creates metal fatigue and compromises the powder coating.

Feeling inspired to enclose your modern home in lasting style and performance? Athens™ Residential aluminum fencing and gate line from Fortress Building Products combines affordability with premium design. Its rackable design easily matches changes in grade and it features a hidden fastener system for a clean and finished look.