Aluminum Fence Components

• The aluminum fence has a cross pattern for structure and stability. Design Pics/Valueline/Getty Images

  An aluminum fence is used in neighborhoods as a safety net for children and pets. The see-through property of the aluminum fence slats allows people to socialize with one another while maintaining the privacy of their yard. The basic components of the aluminum fence help provide structure and aesthetic appeal for the landscape.

Post

• The post of the fence is the thick piece of aluminum that joins one fence panel to another. The post is typically set into a deep hole about 3 feet down, with the addition of ready-mix concrete. The concrete will support the fence post and prevent heavy winds from pulling the fence down. The post is affixed to the panels with screws and sometimes brackets, unless the post is precut for the panel. Precut posts are made with either parallel slats to hold the panels on each side, or slats on a right angle to hold corner panels.

Panel

• The panel part is the heart of the fence, making up the body and the main structural integrity of the fence. Panels are varied by height, thickness and design, though aluminum fence panels are commonly in a criss-cross pattern. The typical measurement for a panel is around 4 feet tall and 6 feet long. The top and bottom of an aluminum fence panel is lined by a thick bar that contains the thin wire of the panel in place.

Gate

• The gate is a separate part, which is fashioned to appear like the rest of the fence, that will affix to the posts where an entrance is desired. The gate is attached to the posts via the precut slats or brackets and screws. Aluminum fence gates will typically have a lift-and-latch system for the gate opening, which prevents small kids from leaving the yard, but is simple enough to maneuver.