Totally get where you’re coming from. I had this fantasy of glass panels making my backyard look like a resort, but after one BBQ with greasy fingers and splashes everywhere, I was over it. Aluminum might not be “wow,” but it’s definitely less high-maintenance. Sometimes practical just wins, especially with an older house.
Aluminum might not be “wow,” but it’s definitely less high-maintenance. Sometimes practical just wins, especially with an older house.
- Maintenance is a big deal, especially if you’re thinking long-term. Glass looks great for listings, but it’s a pain to keep spotless.
- Aluminum blends in more, but I’ve noticed it holds up better over the years—less corrosion, fewer repairs.
- One thing I’m curious about: has anyone seen a real impact on property value between the two? I’ve heard mixed things from agents and buyers.
I’ve never seen a bump in value just because someone went with glass. If anything, buyers get nervous about the upkeep. Aluminum’s not flashy, but it’s like the Toyota Corolla of fences—reliable, does the job, and you barely have to think about it.
Glass vs. aluminum fencing around the pool—what’s actually better?
I get where you’re coming from about aluminum being the “set it and forget it” option. I’ve flipped a few places with both types of fencing, and honestly, aluminum is the one buyers seem to trust more. Here’s how it usually plays out for me:
1. If I install glass, it looks amazing in photos and open houses. People love the “luxury resort” vibe. But then the questions start—how do you keep it clean? What about water spots? Is it safe with kids? You can almost see the hesitation set in once they realize it’s not just a showpiece.
2. With aluminum, buyers barely blink. It’s sturdy, low-maintenance, and nobody’s worried about fingerprints or breaking panels. It might not be flashy, but I’ve never had a buyer complain about it.
I did have one couple who really wanted glass, but after a year, they called me back asking for a referral to swap it out for aluminum because of all the upkeep. Just goes to show, sometimes “boring” is exactly what people want when it comes to pools and safety.
Funny how “boring” aluminum wins out once the pool parties are over and reality sets in. I always wonder about the environmental side—aluminum’s recyclable, but glass production can be energy-heavy. Anyone actually tried recycled-content fencing? Or is that just marketing fluff?
