Aluminium Vertical Blade Fence vs. Aluminium Slat Fencing: Which One’s Right for You?

Trying to decide between an aluminium vertical blade fence and aluminium slat fencing for your Melbourne home?

Both styles are durable, low-maintenance, and stylish — but they serve different purposes. Vertical blade fences offer a bold, architectural look and high security, while aluminium slat fences provide greater privacy and a softer, more versatile design. This complete guide will help you compare both options side by side, so you can choose the right aluminium fencing style based on privacy, cost, curb appeal, and climate suitability in Melbourne’s suburbs.

This in-depth comparison breaks down everything you need to know about aluminium vertical blade fencing and aluminium slat fencing, helping you make an informed decision based on design, performance, cost, security, installation, and more.

Read more: [2025] How Much Does Aluminium Fencing Cost?

Why Aluminium Fencing Is So Popular in Melbourne

Before diving into the comparison, let’s quickly look at why aluminium is now Melbourne’s fencing material of choice:

• Rustproof and weather-resistant (ideal for Melbourne’s four-seasons-in-a-day climate)

• Bushfire safe in BAL-rated zones

• Lightweight but strong — good for clay soils or sloping sites

• Minimal upkeep — no painting, no staining, no rot

• Customisable designs for modern and heritage homes alike

In short: aluminium is built to last — and it looks good doing it.

What Is an Aluminium Vertical Blade Fence?

An aluminium vertical blade fence is constructed using narrow, upright panels (blades) spaced evenly apart. These vertical blades can vary in width, spacing, height, and finish to suit both residential and commercial environments.

This fencing style offers a sleek and contemporary appearance, commonly used in high-end architectural homes, modern commercial buildings, and security-focused applications.

Key Features of Vertical Blade Fences:

• Clean vertical lines

• Custom spacing between blades

• High privacy and anti-climb design

• Powder-coated aluminium for durability

• Rustproof, warp-free, and termite-resistant

What Is Aluminium Slat Fencing?

Aluminium slat fencing uses horizontal or vertical slats, typically wider than vertical blades, and mounted within a frame or post system. The slats are available in varying sizes and spacing, offering versatile design options that mimic timber while providing the benefits of aluminium.

Aluminium slat fences are highly customizable and popular among homeowners seeking a mix of privacy, airflow, and visual appeal.

Key Features of Aluminium Slat Fencing:

• Horizontal or vertical layout options

• Slats come in different widths and spacing

• Available in timber-look finishes and modern colours

• Excellent airflow and light passage

• Low-maintenance and long-lasting

Side-by-Side Comparison: Vertical Blade vs. Slat Fencing

1. Style & Visual Impact: Which One Looks Better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here — it depends on your home’s architecture, your taste, and what effect you’re trying to create.

Aluminium Vertical Blade Fence:

• Bold, geometric, and modern

• Creates height — great for homes with strong vertical features

• Adds a “premium” or commercial look

• Works beautifully on architectural builds in suburbs like Brighton, Elwood, or Camberwell

Aluminium Slat Fence:

• Softer, more relaxed lines

• Creates width — elongates smaller spaces

• Ideal for coastal, Hamptons, or suburban designs

• Works well in family homes across areas like Clyde North, Rowville, or Glen Waverley

Design Tip: Vertical blades make a strong statement. Slats blend in. Choose based on whether you want the fence to stand out or disappear into the landscape.

Let’s dive deeper into how these two fencing options compare based on key decision factors.

2. Privacy Comparison: Which Offers More Coverage?

Both fencing types can be adjusted to your privacy needs, but there are key differences.

Q: “Which aluminium fence gives more privacy?”
A: Aluminium slat fencing offers greater privacy due to adjustable spacing and block-out options.

3. Security Comparison: Which One’s Safer?

• Vertical Blade Fencing: The vertical orientation and narrow spacing make it difficult to climb, making it ideal for security-conscious applications like schools, childcare centres, and gated communities.

• Slat Fencing: The horizontal slats can be easier to climb, particularly if the gaps are large or the slats are wide. However, it’s still a secure option when installed with minimal spacing and sufficient height.

Winner: Aluminium Vertical Blade Fence – superior anti-climb design.

Maintenance and Durability

Both styles are made from powder-coated aluminium, which is designed for minimal upkeep and excellent performance in Melbourne’s mixed weather conditions.

• No rust, warping, or termites

• No painting or sealing required

• Just occasional hosing or wiping to remove dirt and dust

There’s virtually no difference in long-term durability. What matters more is installation quality and powder coat finish (e.g., Dulux Duralloy vs Interpon finishes).

5. Maintenance Requirements

One of the biggest advantages of aluminium fencing is its low maintenance. Unlike timber fences, aluminium doesn’t require sanding, oiling, or painting.

• Cleaning Vertical Blades: Simple rinse with a hose and occasional wipe-down to remove dust.

• Cleaning Slat Fences: Same process, but might collect slightly more dust depending on the slat spacing and orientation.

Winner: Tie – both require minimal effort to maintain their look.

6. Cost and Value for Money

• Vertical Blade Fence Pricing: Typically slightly more expensive due to the manufacturing process and custom spacing. Prices depend on the height, blade width, and number of panels.

• Slat Fencing Pricing: Usually more affordable, especially for horizontal installations. Timber-look aluminium slats may increase costs slightly, but still cost less than composite or hardwood fencing.

Both options offer excellent long-term value due to longevity and low maintenance.

Winner: Aluminium Slat Fencing – usually more budget-friendly upfront.

7. Customization and Colour Options

Both fencing systems offer great customization through:

• Blade/slat width and thickness

• Spacing between panels

• Colorbond and Dulux powder coat colours

• Timber-look aluminium slats (for slat fencing)

• Decorative post caps, screens, and integrated gate designs

Winner: Tie – both offer excellent flexibility in design.

8. Gate Integration and Automation

• Vertical Blade Fence Gates: Commonly paired with matching single or double swing gates or automated sliding gates for driveways. The rigid vertical design suits motorized operation and is easy to integrate with access control systems.

• Slat Fence Gates: Equally adaptable to pedestrian gates, double gates, or sliding driveway gates. Automation is easy to apply using standard sliding gate motors or solar-powered kits.

Winner: Tie – both integrate smoothly with gate systems and automation.

Cost Comparison (2025 Estimates)

Here’s what Melbourne homeowners can expect to pay for standard installations:

Things that affect price:

• Total linear metres

• Gate inclusion

• Colour or woodgrain finish (timber-look costs more)

• Site access and slope

• Height of the fence

Tip: Timber-look aluminium slats are often the most expensive version — but they add visual warmth without the maintenance of real wood.

Installation Factors Specific to Melbourne

Installing fencing in Melbourne involves a few key local considerations:

1. Soil Movement
   Many parts of Melbourne have clay-based soils (e.g., the north and west), which expand and contract. Aluminium fencing works well because it’s lightweight and won’t crack footings under movement.

2. Heritage Zones & Overlays
   Suburbs like Parkville, Albert Park, or parts of Kew may have council restrictions on modern fencing. Always check local planning overlays.

3. Coastal Areas
   If you’re near the bay (e.g., St Kilda, Aspendale), choose marine-grade or extra-resistant powder coatings to prevent corrosion.

4. Bushfire Compliance
   In outer suburbs like Warrandyte or Belgrave, make sure your aluminium fence complies with BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) requirements.

5. Front Fence Height Restrictions
   Melbourne councils generally limit front fences to 1.2–1.5m unless approved.

Matching Gates and Screens

Both vertical blade and slat fencing styles can be matched with:

• Pedestrian gates

• Driveway gates (manual or automated)

• Pool fencing

• Bin and AC screens

• Garage screening or facade cladding

This makes aluminium a flexible solution for cohesive property design.

Design Tip: Use vertical blades for front fences and horizontal slats for side or backyard fencing — it’s a popular blend for homes in Melbourne’s newer estates.

Best Use Cases for Each Fencing Type

Here’s a quick breakdown of the ideal scenarios for each type:

Real-World Applications and Inspiration

Vertical Blade Fence Examples:

• Homes in Melbourne’s inner suburbs using charcoal vertical blades to contrast light façades

• Commercial offices using vertical fencing for secure perimeters

• Pool fencing with stylish narrow blades

Slat Fence Examples:

• Side and rear boundaries for family homes seeking more privacy

• Timber-look slat fencing along front yards for natural warmth

• Decorative screens with wide horizontal slats for alfresco areas

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

Both types of aluminium fencing are:

• 100% recyclable

• Manufactured with minimal waste

• Long-lasting – reducing replacement frequency

For eco-conscious homeowners, aluminium is a green choice compared to treated pine, hardwood, or composite fencing.

Winner: Tie – both support long-term environmental sustainability.

Conclusion: Which Fence Is Right for You?

Choosing between an aluminium vertical blade fence and an aluminium slat fence ultimately comes down to personal style, privacy requirements, budget, and property type.

Choose Vertical Blade Fencing if:

• You want a modern, architectural appearance

• Security is your top priority

• You need a bold design for street appeal

Choose Aluminium Slat Fencing if:

• You need a cost-effective privacy solution

• You want more airflow or a timber-look option

• Your style preferences lean towards softer, layered aesthetics

Regardless of which option you choose, both fencing types provide excellent durability, minimal maintenance, and long-term value, making them smart investments for residential and commercial properties alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better for privacy: vertical blade or slat fencing?

Slat fencing offers better custom privacy control thanks to adjustable spacing. Vertical blades provide semi-privacy but with enhanced security.

2. Can I automate my gate with either type of fence?

Yes, both fencing styles can be integrated with sliding or swing gate automation, including solar-powered systems.

3. Are aluminium fences better than steel or timber?

Aluminium fences are lighter, rustproof, low-maintenance, and long-lasting, making them better for coastal and residential environments than steel or timber.

4. How long do aluminium fences last?

Aluminium fences can last 20+ years with minimal maintenance, retaining their appearance and structural integrity.

Need Help Choosing the Right Aluminium Fence?

At Pentagon Fencing & Gates, we help Melbourne homeowners design, fabricate, and install custom aluminium vertical blade and slat fencing — with a perfect fit every time.

• Local supply & powder coating

• Free on-site quotes across Melbourne

• Expert installation from licensed trades

• Full range of gate styles and accessories available

Get in touch today to book your free consultation and see which fencing solution best suits your property, suburb, and budget.