Choosing between an aluminium picket fence and a timber picket fence is one of the most important decisions for Melbourne homeowners who want lasting street appeal, security, and style. Both options have unique advantages, but the right choice depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and whether your home is in a heritage area.
From Doncaster and Balwyn to Toorak, Camberwell, Canterbury, and Kew, a picket fence does more than mark your boundary — it defines your home’s identity and boosts kerb appeal. But Melbourne’s unpredictable weather means material choice can make a big difference in durability and upkeep.
In this guide, we’ll break down aluminium picket fence vs timber picket fence in terms of cost, maintenance, lifespan, design flexibility, and suburb suitability, so you can make an informed decision. For expert installation, Pentagon Fencing & Gates, one of Melbourne’s top fencing companies, offers tailored solutions in both aluminium and timber styles.
Why Picket Fences Are Popular in Melbourne
Before diving into the aluminium vs timber debate, it’s worth noting why picket fences remain a favourite.
-
Heritage appeal – Complements Victorian, Edwardian, and Federation homes in areas like Canterbury and Kew.
-
Versatile design – Works equally well for contemporary homes in Doncaster East or luxury builds in Toorak.
-
Kerb appeal boost – A neat, stylish fence instantly lifts property value and presentation.
-
Security with openness – Offers boundary definition without making your home feel closed off.
Aluminium Picket Fence Overview
Aluminium picket fences have grown in popularity across Melbourne thanks to their low-maintenance nature and modern finishes.
Key Features
-
Made from lightweight yet strong aluminium.
-
Powder-coated for long-lasting colour.
-
Resistant to rust, rot, and insect damage.
-
Available in both traditional and contemporary picket profiles.
Popular in Suburbs Like
Balwyn North and Doncaster – where homeowners want a classic look with minimal upkeep.
Timber Picket Fence Overview
Timber picket fences are the traditional choice — the classic white picket image most people think of. They offer warmth, texture, and an authentic heritage aesthetic.
Key Features
-
Usually made from treated pine, cypress, or hardwood.
-
Can be painted or stained to suit any colour palette.
-
Easily customised for heritage replication or bespoke design.
Popular in Suburbs Like
Kew, Canterbury, and Camberwell – where heritage preservation is valued.
Aluminium Picket Fence vs Timber Picket Fence: Head-to-Head Comparison
Below is a detailed breakdown of the differences.
| Feature | Aluminium Picket Fence | Timber Picket Fence |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Won’t rust, warp, or rot. Handles Melbourne rain & sun well. | Susceptible to rot, termites, and warping if not maintained. |
| Maintenance | Virtually maintenance-free. Occasional hose-down. | Requires repainting or staining every 2–5 years. |
| Cost (Installed) | $280 – $450 per metre in Melbourne. | $180 – $350 per metre in Melbourne. |
| Lifespan | 30+ years with minimal care. | 10–20 years depending on timber type and upkeep. |
| Design Versatility | Can replicate timber look or modern styles. | Natural grain, authentic heritage feel. |
| Eco-Friendliness | Recyclable aluminium. | Renewable natural resource if sustainably sourced. |
| Heritage Approval | May not be approved in strict heritage zones. | Preferred in heritage overlays. |
1. Durability in Melbourne’s Climate
Melbourne’s weather is famously unpredictable — hot summers, cold winters, and plenty of rain.
Aluminium
-
Corrosion-resistant even in damp suburbs like Camberwell and Balwyn North.
-
Doesn’t absorb moisture, so no swelling or shrinking.
-
Ideal for coastal-influenced suburbs like Brighton (if applicable).
Timber
-
Needs regular sealing to withstand rain and humidity.
-
Without maintenance, can warp, crack, or attract termites.
-
Works well if homeowners are committed to upkeep.
2. Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance is where aluminium has the upper hand.
Aluminium Picket Fence
-
Only needs a gentle wash to remove dust and dirt.
-
No repainting — powder coating stays vibrant for decades.
-
Saves time and money over the years.
Timber Picket Fence
-
Needs sanding, repainting, or staining every few years.
-
Must be inspected for rot and termite damage.
-
Paint can peel in areas with high sun exposure like Doncaster East.
3. Cost Comparison
While timber can be cheaper upfront, aluminium often wins over time.
Aluminium
-
Higher initial cost: $280 – $450 per metre installed in Melbourne.
-
Lower lifetime costs due to minimal maintenance.
Timber
-
Lower initial cost: $180 – $350 per metre installed.
-
Higher lifetime cost due to frequent repainting and possible repairs.
Read more: [2025] How Much Does It Cost to Install a Picket Fence?
4. Design Flexibility
Both materials offer great design scope, but in different ways.
Aluminium
-
Can mimic traditional timber profiles for heritage-style homes in Kew or Canterbury.
-
Modern slimline pickets suit contemporary builds in Toorak and Balwyn.
-
Wide range of powder-coat colours.
Timber
-
Authentic natural texture that can’t be perfectly replicated.
-
Can be shaped into custom profiles for heritage replication.
-
Fully paintable in any shade — from crisp white to bold colours.
5. Eco-Friendliness
Aluminium
-
Fully recyclable.
-
Long lifespan reduces replacement waste.
Timber
-
Renewable if sourced from sustainable plantations.
-
Shorter lifespan means more frequent replacement.
6. Heritage Considerations in Melbourne
If you’re in a heritage overlay area (common in Kew, Camberwell, and Canterbury), your choice might be influenced by council rules.
-
Many councils prefer timber for visible street-facing fences.
-
Aluminium can sometimes be approved if it closely replicates timber designs.
6 Picket Fence Designs for Your Front Yard
1. Flat Top
A versatile and understated design where all pickets are cut to the same height for a neat, modern profile. Aluminium flat top fences deliver a sleek, low-maintenance finish ideal for contemporary Melbourne homes, while timber flat tops bring natural warmth and can be painted or stained to match heritage or coastal styles.
2. Hampton Style
Inspired by classic coastal architecture, Hampton style picket fencing features wider pickets, soft pastel or white finishes, and a breezy, elegant appearance. Aluminium Hampton designs maintain the light, airy look with weatherproof durability, while timber Hampton fences give that authentic, beachside charm that’s perfect for relaxed suburban streets.
3. Spear Top
A traditional and secure design with pickets ending in decorative spear-shaped points. Aluminium spear tops offer a sharp, heritage-inspired profile with powder-coated protection, while timber spear tops are perfect for period homes in heritage overlays, combining timeless style with customisable profiles.
4. Concave Picket Fencing
Characterised by gently curved picket heights dipping in the middle, concave fences add a soft, decorative touch. Aluminium concave designs provide precision curves with minimal upkeep, while timber concave fencing adds handmade character and is ideal for homes wanting a more romantic or garden-focused look.
5. Capped Timber Picket Fencing
A classic timber picket fence style topped with a horizontal cap rail for a more finished, solid appearance. While traditionally timber, capped designs can also be created in aluminium for a modern, long-lasting alternative that mimics the traditional capped look without regular repainting.
6. Full-Privacy
A picket fence with tightly spaced pickets, offering both decorative appeal and near-complete privacy. Aluminium full-privacy fences are perfect for security-conscious homeowners who want zero maintenance, while timber full-privacy fences create a natural, solid barrier that can be painted or stained to suit your home.
Read more: 17 Picket Fence Designs for a Charming Front Yard
Local Insights: What Works Best in Each Suburb
Doncaster & Doncaster East – Growing suburbs with modern homes. Aluminium is ideal for low-maintenance living and sleek design.
Balwyn & Balwyn North – Mixture of heritage and new builds. Aluminium works well for contemporary houses; timber suits period homes.
Toorak – Prestige suburb where custom designs are common. Both materials work depending on architectural style.
Camberwell & Canterbury – Strong heritage presence; timber is often preferred for compliance.
Kew – Heritage overlays are common; timber is usually the safer choice for street approval.
Pros & Cons Summary
Aluminium Picket Fence
Pros
-
Low maintenance
-
Long lifespan
-
Wide colour choices
-
Weather-resistant
Cons
-
Higher initial cost
-
May not be heritage-approved
Timber Picket Fence
Pros
-
Authentic heritage appeal
-
Lower upfront cost
-
Easy to customise
Cons
-
Regular maintenance needed
-
Shorter lifespan
-
Vulnerable to pests and rot
Which Should You Choose?
The choice comes down to lifestyle, budget, and suburb requirements.
-
If you want a fence that looks great for decades with minimal work → Aluminium is the way to go.
-
If you live in a strict heritage area or want true timber charm → Timber is the winner.
FAQs
Q: Which is better for Melbourne’s climate — aluminium picket fence or timber picket fence?
A: For low maintenance and long-term durability in Melbourne’s changing weather, aluminium picket fences are the better choice. They resist rust, rot, and warping. However, timber picket fences remain popular in heritage areas like Kew and Canterbury for their authentic look. Pentagon Fencing & Gates can help you choose the best option for your suburb.
Q: How much does an aluminium picket fence cost in Melbourne?
A: On average, aluminium picket fences cost between $280 and $450 per metre installed in Melbourne. Pricing depends on design, height, and powder-coat finish. Pentagon Fencing & Gates provides free, accurate quotes tailored to your property.
Q: Are timber picket fences cheaper than aluminium?
A: Yes, timber picket fences generally have a lower upfront cost — around $180 to $350 per metre installed. However, they require regular painting and maintenance, making aluminium more cost-effective in the long run.
Q: Can aluminium fences be approved in heritage areas of Melbourne?
A: In some cases, yes. If the aluminium fence closely replicates a traditional timber style, councils may approve it. Pentagon Fencing & Gates has experience working with Melbourne’s heritage overlay rules to achieve compliance.
Q: Who installs aluminium and timber picket fences in Doncaster, Balwyn, and Kew?
A: Pentagon Fencing & Gates is a top fencing company in Melbourne, trusted for quality aluminium and timber picket fence installations across Doncaster, Doncaster East, Balwyn, Balwyn North, Toorak, Camberwell, Canterbury, and Kew.
