If you're researching aluminum ornamental fences for your business, you're not alone—it’s one of the most searched commercial fencing terms online. At United Fence Company, we install both aluminum and steel fencing, and we understand why aluminum gets so much attention: it's attractive, low-maintenance, and rust-resistant.
But here’s the truth: in Arkansas’s commercial and industrial environments, steel fencing is often the better choice. From manufacturing plants to schools and government buildings, strength, security, and long-term durability often outweigh the lightweight appeal of aluminum.
We’ll explain why. But first, let’s break down why so many business owners start their search with aluminum—and where steel steps in as the smarter, more durable long-term solution.
Key Takeaways
- Aluminum ornamental fences are lightweight, rust-resistant, and cost-effective—ideal for decorative or low-traffic areas.
- Steel fencing is stronger, more impact-resistant, and also a better fit for high-security or high-traffic commercial properties.
- Arkansas’s climate—with hot summers, humidity, storms, and occasional ice—demands fencing materials that can withstand stress and weather.
- Most businesses who start with “aluminum” in mind often switch to steel once they understand the durability and ROI.
- United Fence Company has decades of experience helping businesses match the right fencing material to their specific operational needs.
Why Aluminum Ornamental Fences Are Popular
Aluminum fencing has gained a strong foothold in both residential and commercial applications thanks to its many benefits:
- Low-maintenance appeal – The powder-coated finish resists rust, fading, and corrosion, making it ideal for hands-off upkeep. It doesn’t require frequent repainting or rust treatments.
- Lightweight material – Aluminum panels are easier to transport and install, reducing labor costs and installation time. For smaller or straightforward projects, this can be a major time-saver.
- Clean, attractive designs – Available in both contemporary and traditional looks that suit a wide range of architectural styles. From historic main streets to modern retail plazas, aluminum’s flexibility in design makes it a popular visual choice.
- Cost efficiency – With pricing around $25–$50 per foot, aluminum ornamental fences are generally more affordable than steel or wrought iron, making it appealing for budget-conscious projects.
It’s especially well-suited for:
- Office park perimeters where aesthetics are key
- Retail fronts where foot traffic is light
- Apartment landscaping for decorative touches
- Pool enclosures where corrosion resistance matters
However, while it performs well in these lighter-duty settings, aluminum may not stand up to the demands of Arkansas’s weather or heavy commercial use—which is where steel becomes the smarter investment.
The Real Workhorse: Commercial Steel Fencing
While aluminum meets many aesthetic needs, steel ornamental fencing is what most Arkansas businesses ultimately choose when strength and long-term performance matter.
Here’s why steel leads the way:
- Superior strength and rigidity – Unlike aluminum, steel is built to handle real physical stress, including crowds, equipment contact, or high winds. Steel can span long distances without bending or sagging.
- Impact resistance – Perfect for areas near parking lots, industrial yards, schools, or public venues where accidental impact is a risk. If a car or equipment bumps into a steel fence, it's far less likely to suffer damage.
- Enhanced security – Heavier material and stronger welds offer better protection against intrusion or forced entry. Ideal for warehouses, utilities, and sensitive facilities.
- Longevity under pressure – With modern powder coatings, steel resists rust while providing decades of structural integrity. Even in humid or storm-prone environments like Arkansas, it stands strong.
Steel is frequently used in:
- Distribution centers needing secure perimeters
- Government buildings requiring restricted access
- Healthcare facilities with high foot and vehicle traffic
- Educational campuses with long-term durability needs
Even when a client starts by asking about aluminum fencing, we often recommend steel based on site conditions and usage needs—and they thank us later.
Steel vs. Aluminum Ornamental Fences: What’s Right for Your Business?
| Feature | Aluminum Fencing | Steel Fencing |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Lightweight, dent-prone | Rigid, durable under stress |
| Security | Moderate | High – ideal for restricted areas |
| Maintenance | Low (powder-coated) | Low (with powder coat) |
| Cost | Lower upfront | Slightly higher, better long-term ROI |
| Customization | High | High |
| Installation Speed | Faster due to lightweight panels | Slower but more substantial build |
| Best Use Cases | Decorative, low-traffic spaces | Heavy-duty, secure, weather-resistant |
Bottom line: If appearance is the priority and foot traffic is light, aluminum can do the job. But for facilities that require toughness, protection, and longevity, steel fencing is your best bet.
Popular Fence Styles—In Both Materials
Whether you go with aluminum ornamental fences or solid steel, we offer a wide variety of design options to match your site and branding:
- Matte black powder coat (our most popular finish)
- Decorative tops like spears, finials, rings, and scrolls
- Flat-top panels for a clean, modern look
- Custom gate options, including double-swing, sliding, or automated entry
- Brand-specific touches like logos, custom picket spacing, or integrated lighting
Our in-house design team can help you:
- Reflect your brand’s aesthetic
- Comply with ADA and local safety codes
- Integrate fencing into existing security systems
- Choose finishes that hold up in Arkansas’s climate
We’ll help you match the look you want with the performance you need—without compromising safety or durability.
Security Matters: Why Fence Strength Isn’t Just About Looks
When you're securing a commercial property, the visual deterrent is only part of the equation. Real security requires structural strength, proper installation, and access control compatibility.
Steel fencing offers superior defense against:
- Unauthorized entry – The weight and weld strength of steel make it difficult to bend, cut, or climb.
- Vandalism – Durable steel resists damage from tampering or impact.
- Liability risks – A sturdy perimeter reduces exposure to trespassing, property damage, or injury.
If you’re securing a warehouse, school, utility facility, or high-value retail location, steel fencing is the material most trusted for serious protection. We also install access control systems and reinforced gate entry points that work seamlessly with steel structures.
Gates: Where Form Meets Function
Your gate is more than an entry point—it’s a critical part of your fencing system. Whether you choose steel or aluminum, the design, material, and hardware of your gate determine how well it functions over time.
At United Fence Company, we offer:
- Swing gates for wide or formal entryways
- Sliding gates ideal for limited space or industrial applications
- Automated gates for secure, hands-free access
- Reinforced hardware including heavy-duty hinges, locks, and electric operators
We also design custom gates to match your fence style, site layout, and security needs. From school bus yards to trucking depots, our gates are engineered to last.
Aluminum Ornamental Fences Are Not Built for Arkansas Weather
Arkansas sees a wide range of climate challenges throughout the year—intense summer heat, high humidity, rainstorms, and winter ice can all put stress on fencing materials.
While aluminum is rust-resistant, it may not offer the structural integrity needed to stand up to repeated stress, wind gusts, or impact over time. During tornado season or ice storms, lightweight fencing can be at greater risk for bending, shifting, or failing.
Our steel ornamental fences are powder coated, offering the same anti-corrosion benefits of aluminum with the added strength of solid steel. That means less risk of bending, breaking, or wear—especially in commercial or industrial settings exposed to vehicles, machinery, or weather extremes.
We also use professional-grade hardware and gate systems built to handle Arkansas’s changing conditions and heavy use.
From Little Rock to Fort Smith, our steel fences are built to last and designed to handle the Arkansas elements.
Let’s Find the Right Fit for You
At United Fence Company, we’ve been helping Arkansas businesses choose the right fencing materials since 1953. We’ll walk you through your options, inspect your site, and give honest recommendations—not just upsells.
Whether you need curb appeal for your office front or perimeter security for your operations center, we’ll help you weigh cost, durability, code compliance, and design to find the best solution.
Looking for commercial aluminum fencing? Let’s talk—and we’ll help you decide if steel is the smarter choice for your property.
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