01Combustible Fence PathwaysCAL FIRE warns that combustible fences and gates attached to a residence can provide a route for fire toward the structure. The risk is not only the fence line by itself. The connection to the home matters.
02The First Five FeetZone 0 is the first 0 to 5 feet around a structure. Current guidance emphasizes keeping this area ember resistant and replacing combustible fencing, gates and arbors attached to the home with noncombustible alternatives.
03Noncombustible AluminumAluminum itself is noncombustible. That makes structural aluminum a fundamentally different starting point for projects prioritizing reduced combustible material near a building.
UVSun & ColorComposite weathering and color retention depend on formulation, pigments, cap layer, climate and exposure. Do not assume every board fades equally, but do ask for product-specific warranty and testing data.
H₂OMoistureWood-plastic composites are engineered to manage exterior moisture, but performance depends on formulation, exposed ends, drainage and installation. Aluminum does not absorb moisture like wood fiber.
HEATThermal MovementComposite profiles and aluminum both move with temperature. Correct gaps, spans and connections matter. The difference is that Aluglobus begins with structural metal profiles.
IMPACTDamage & RepairComposite can scratch, chip or break under enough force. Aluminum can dent or bend. Compare how individual boards, slats and hardware can be accessed and replaced within the chosen system.
Weight Is Not StrengthComposite can feel heavy because of its material density. Weight alone does not establish structural capacity. Evaluate span, post spacing, reinforcement, connections and engineering.
Maintenance Is Not Zero“Low maintenance” does not mean “no maintenance.” Both systems should be cleaned and inspected. Gates, fasteners, posts and drainage details deserve routine attention.
Lifespan Depends on the SystemMaterial choice matters, but installation quality, exposure, engineering, finish, hardware and upkeep also determine long-term performance. Ask for written product and finish coverage.
UPFRONTMaterial PriceComposite and aluminum prices vary by profile, finish, height, privacy level, order volume and manufacturer. Premium composite can overlap with architectural aluminum. A low advertised panel price may exclude posts, rails, covers, gates, hardware, freight and fabrication.
PROJECTInstalled ScopeSite conditions can outweigh material price. Demolition, footings, walls, slopes, stepped sections, access, engineering, permits and installation labor all affect the finished cost. Compare quotes with the same dimensions and inclusions.
OWNERSHIPLong-Term CostConsider cleaning, repairs, replacement boards, finish coverage, gate service and the ability to match material later. The lowest opening price is not always the lowest cost across the life of the property.
Composite InputsSome composites incorporate reclaimed wood fiber or recycled polymers, which can reduce demand for virgin inputs. The mixture of organic fiber, polymer, additives and cap layers can also make end-of-life processing product and facility dependent.
Aluminum InputsProducing primary aluminum requires substantial energy, while aluminum is also widely recyclable. Recycled content and manufacturing energy vary by supplier. Ask for documentation when project sustainability targets require it.
Service Life & RepairA product that lasts, remains useful and can be repaired may avoid premature replacement. System design, installation and maintenance can be as important as the starting material when evaluating environmental impact.
COMPOSITE APPROACHWood Appearance Through a Wood-Plastic BoardThe color, texture, cap and internal composition vary by product. Ask what the board contains and how the exact product is tested.
ALUGLOBUS APPROACHWood Appearance. Aluminum Underneath.Create the warmth of wood with Ipe, Walnut, Yellow Oak, White Oak or Warm Teak-inspired finishes over architectural aluminum.
COMPOSITECommonly contains wood or cellulose fiberCommonly contains thermoplastic polymerNot a noncombustible material categoryWeathering is formulation dependentOften based on predetermined boards
ALUMINUMNoncombustible metalStructural architectural extrusions7-stage pretreatmentAAMA 2604 powder coatingCustom sizes, colors, gaps and wood looks