STEEL DELIVERED: The Strong, Durable Choice for Your Fence Project

When considering a new fence for your home or business, the material you choose is the most crucial decision. While wood, aluminum, and vinyl all have their merits, **steel** stands out as the ultimate choice for projects where **strength, security, and longevity** are the highest priorities.

At **Bell and Son Fence Company, Inc.**, we specialize not only in installation but in helping you understand the materials—so you feel confident and smart about your final choice.

Steel materials being delivered by Bell and Son to a construction site.

Galvanized steel installed by Bell and Son provides decades of corrosion protection.

---

MATERIAL DEEP DIVE: Why Choose Steel?

Steel, an alloy primarily composed of iron and carbon, offers unparalleled advantages in the contracting world:

• Superior Strength: Steel provides a physical barrier that is significantly harder to penetrate, bend, or damage compared to aluminum or thinner materials. This makes it the go-to choice for high-security applications.
• Durability and Longevity: Modern steel fencing is almost always **galvanized**, meaning it has a protective zinc coating. This galvanization process is vital as it prevents rust and corrosion, ensuring the fence can withstand severe weather for decades.
• Gauge Matters: When sourcing steel, you’ll hear the term “gauge.” This refers to the thickness of the steel. **Lower gauge numbers mean thicker, stronger metal.** For example, a **16-gauge** fence is stronger than an 18-gauge fence. Choosing a heavy gauge ensures maximum resilience.
• The Finish: Steel fences can be finished with techniques like **electrostatic painting**, which uses an electrical charge to magnetically apply a dense, chip-resistant coating for a perfect aesthetic and maximum protection.

---

RESIDENTIAL USE: Security Meets Sophistication

Steel might sound overly industrial, but it is often used to create stunning, lasting residential boundaries.

Standard Residential Uses

• Security Gates: Heavy-duty steel gates provide unmatched protection at entry points, particularly when automated.
• Pool Enclosures: While aluminum is common, galvanized steel offers a sturdier, more rigid enclosure that maintains its perfect alignment over time.
• High-End Perimeter Fencing: A black, electrostatically painted ornamental steel fence (like an **8-foot, 16-gauge fence**) offers a sophisticated, classic look with the maximum level of security and property definition.

Custom Residential Uses

• Vine Bypass Systems: We’ve created custom systems using **16-gauge wire mesh chain link** drilled into existing concrete walls to serve as climbing trellises.
• Custom Ornamental Design: Steel can be custom-welded and fabricated into unique scrollwork, logos, or patterns that are much stronger and more permanent than their aluminum counterparts.

---

COMMERCIAL USE: Max-Security and Longevity

In the commercial sector, steel is the standard because security and durability directly impact assets and operations.

Standard Commercial Uses

• Heavy-Duty Chain Link: For securing large properties, **heavy-gauge (e.g., 6-gauge) vinyl-coated steel chain link** is the ultimate choice. The low gauge ensures it resists cutting and impact.
• Anti-Climb Fencing: Steel is used in specialized fencing designed with smaller mesh openings to prevent foothold and intrusion.

Custom Commercial Uses

• Machinery Enclosures: Custom-welded steel cages or partitions for securing valuable equipment or machinery on-site.
• Vehicle Access Control: Robust, custom-built steel slide or swing gates designed to handle frequent, heavy traffic and integrated with complex access control systems.

---

SMART DECISION: Determining Steel for Your Project

Use these comparison points to determine if steel is the right material for your needs:

Factor 1: Security

• Choose Steel If… Security is your **#1 priority** (e.g., protection of assets, liability reduction).
• Consider Another Material If… Budget is the highest priority, and security is minimal (e.g., purely decorative boundary).

Factor 2: Durability

• Choose Steel If… You need a fence to last 20+ years with minimal maintenance in harsh weather.
• Consider Another Material If… You are looking for a short-term solution (e.g., temporary security fencing).

Factor 3: Aesthetics & Customization

• Choose Steel If… You desire a substantial, classic, ornamental look in a permanent installation.
• Consider Another Material If… You need the fence to be easily moved, modified, or lifted (lighter materials are better).

Factor 4: Cost

• Choose Steel If… You are ready to invest a higher upfront cost for **maximum long-term value**.
• Consider Another Material If… Your budget requires the lowest initial investment possible.

By choosing galvanized, properly finished, and expertly installed steel, you are making an investment that pays dividends in security, appearance, and peace of mind for decades.

---