I get what you’re saying about the heat—those aluminum rails are brutal in direct sun. I’ve had both glass and aluminum fencing at different houses, and honestly, aluminum wins for low maintenance. Glass looks sharp but unless you’re okay with regular cleaning, it’s a pain. Water spots and smudges just show up, even on frosted panels. Aluminum does get hot, but at least you’re not out there scrubbing every week. If you want a set-and-forget option, powder-coated aluminum’s tough to beat.
Aluminum does get hot, but at least you’re not out there scrubbing every week.
Had to laugh at the “set-and-forget” bit—totally nailed it. I’ve flipped a few places with both types and, honestly, glass is a nightmare if you’ve got kids or a dog. Fingerprints everywhere. Aluminum gets hot, sure, but I’d rather deal with that than constantly wiping down panels. Only time I’d pick glass is if the view’s killer and you’re okay with the upkeep. Otherwise, powder-coated aluminum all day.
Only time I’d pick glass is if the view’s killer and you’re okay with the upkeep.
That’s a pretty fair take. I’ve worked on installs where folks were dead set on glass because of the view—mountains, lake, whatever—and yeah, it looks amazing for about a week. After that, it’s smudges, water spots, and if you’ve got sprinklers nearby? Forget it. Aluminum isn’t perfect either (that sun-baked handrail in July is no joke), but like you said, it’s just easier to live with long-term.
One thing I’d add: if you’re leaning aluminum but worried about heat, there are lighter color options that don’t get as hot. Also, some clients have gone with a mix—aluminum for most of the fence and glass panels just where you want to keep the sightlines open. Not always in the budget, but it’s a compromise.
You nailed it on the “set-and-forget” part. Pool time should be pool time, not chore time.
Pool time should be pool time, not chore time.
That’s exactly where I landed after way too much research. I was sold on glass at first—looked amazing in photos—but the maintenance stories are everywhere. One thing I noticed: even with “self-cleaning” coatings, you’re still out there wiping down panels. Aluminum isn’t as flashy, but powder coating in a light gray made a big difference for heat. Not perfect, but less hassle overall.
Honestly, I get the whole “less hassle” angle with aluminum, but I’ve had friends go that route and complain about dents and scratches over time. It’s definitely lower maintenance than glass, but I still think if you want that open look, glass is hard to beat—even if it means wiping it down now and then. Guess it depends how much you want to trade off the view for convenience.
