Aluminum VS Steel Gates

When we decide what kind of gate we have to have at home, we consider many factors. For some, they look at the longevity and the durability. For some, if it’s resistant to corrosion. And for some, they look at the design. If we come up with a list of deciding factors for a gate, we boil down to these candidates: Aluminum versus Steel.

Why these two?

Aluminum and steel are good candidates for the factors mentioned above. The competition between the two is very tight because both are durable, easy to mold and definitely have the best properties to withstand some acts of God. But let’s break down, what are the differences between an aluminum gates versus steel gates.

What is the difference between Aluminum versus Steel?

Steel is corrosive and aluminum is not. Even galvanized steel can rust in some areas. While all the joints in a steel gate may be welded, each joint is painted with only a cold galvanizing paint that breaks down over time. When the joints are exposed to rain, ice and snow, the breakdown process speeds up, decreasing the gate’s product life. The appearance soon begins to deteriorate and you are left with an eyesore at the customer entrance. Steel gate panels are often painted, but a moving gate can get chipped or have holes drilled into it for accessories, causing penetrations which open up the steel structure to rust.

Aluminum, however, is protected by a thin layer of its natural corrosion properties, aluminum oxide. The aluminum oxide is a natural, rust-resistant shield. Aluminum oxide acts as a shield because when it comes in contact with water, the aluminum and oxygen molecules can shift apart more than 50% from their normal molecular positions. As a result, when the outer layer of aluminum oxide gets wet, its structure changes just enough to become chemically inert and unable to react rapidly with additional water molecules or atmospheric oxygen. Because of this change in molecular structure, aluminum gates remain aesthetically pleasing for years.

To sum it up

Look at the durability, longevity and the cost-effective factors in choosing a gate. While steel gates may be an acceptable choice in certain situations, you also have to consider your investment. Aluminum gates could withstand and check all the factors needed for a quality gate. So, if you are looking for a gate contractor in Southwest Florida, Fabri-Tech Screens could be the perfect company for you. Contact us to learn more.

Phone number: 239-772-9825

Website: https://www.fabritechscreens.com/

What is Aluminum Fabrication?

Most of us know aluminum is often strong enough to replace steel and light enough to use as cooking foil. Yet aluminum was once thought as more valuable than gold. What has changed? Why is one of the world’s rarest metals now used in more quantities than any metal except iron?

Aluminum is used on a wide variety of applications because it is lightweight, easy to work into new shapes, fire-proof, heat-resistant and resistant to corrosion, but it tends to be a kind of brittle metal that can break when a certain force is applied in certain ways. It reflects light and heat very effectively and it doesn't rust. It reacts easily with other chemical elements, especially oxygen, and readily forms an outer layer of aluminum oxide if you leave it in the air. We call these things aluminum's physical and chemical properties. These are the reasons why it is widely used in different welding works.

Aluminum has a lot of uses. It is often used for window frames, automobile components, bicycle components, building materials such as shuttering formwork, and much more. It is even used as parts in an aircraft. The aluminum can be cut and shaped fairly easily, making it a versatile material for construction purposes. Aluminum does not conduct heat as well as other metals, which can be advantageous or disadvantageous, depending on the application.

Fabri-Tech offers customized design aluminum fabrication of railings, staircases, canopies, decorative ornamental, home and business features. All are made with highest quality that will add value and impression to your home. We can take jobs for you. From a simple handrail to compound curved stair railings, to your home canopies that can give shade at home, or your stunning staircases that can also be very decorative, we are perfectly equipped to handle all of your home needs.             

We will be happy to serve you wherever in Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, North Port, Venice, Estero, Punta Gorda, and Lehigh Acres. Call us at 1-800-281-1289 or 239-772-9825 today for a non-obligation design consultation. We always provide customer satisfaction!