6063-T5 Aluminium Alloy: Why ACMG Uses Premium Extruded Aluminium
Not all aluminium is created equal. When you’re investing in fencing, gates, or decking for your Perth property, the specific aluminium alloy used makes a significant difference in performance, durability, and appearance. At ACMG, we use 6063-T5 aluminium alloy exclusively for our extruded products. Here’s why.
Understanding Aluminium Alloy Numbers
Aluminium alloys are classified by a four-digit number. The 6xxx series (magnesium and silicon alloys) are the most common for architectural and structural applications because they offer excellent extrudability, good strength, and superior corrosion resistance. Within the 6xxx series, several alloys compete for different use cases.
What is 6063-T5?
6063 is an aluminium alloy often called the “architectural alloy” because it is specifically designed for extrusion. It contains magnesium and silicon which form magnesium silicide (Mg?Si), giving it excellent strength after heat treatment.
The T5 temper designation means the material was:
- Hot extruded at high temperature
- Quenched (rapidly cooled) directly after extrusion
- Artificially aged (heat-treated at an elevated temperature) to achieve stable mechanical properties
This T5 process is ideal for extrusions because it eliminates the need for a separate solution heat treatment step, reducing cost while still delivering consistent, predictable strength.
6063-T5 vs 6061-T6
| Property | 6063-T5 (ACMG Choice) | 6061-T6 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~205 MPa | ~310 MPa (stronger) |
| Extrudability | Excellent – complex profiles possible | Poor – difficult to extrude complex shapes |
| Surface Finish | Smooth, uniform, ideal for anodising/powder coating | Rougher surface, visible die lines common |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Good – but slightly less than 6063 |
| Weldability | Good | Excellent |
| Typical Use | Fencing, window frames, architectural profiles | Structural frames, bicycle frames, marine fittings |
Verdict: While 6061-T6 is stronger, it is significantly harder to extrude into the complex, aesthetically refined profiles required for premium fencing and gates. 6063-T5 offers the best balance of extrudability, surface quality, and strength for architectural applications.
6063-T5 vs 6060
6060 is very similar to 6063 and is commonly used in European architectural applications. The key differences are subtle:
| Property | 6063-T5 | 6060 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~205 MPa | ~190 MPa (slightly lower) |
| Extrudability | Excellent | Excellent (slightly easier) |
| Surface Finish | Excellent | Excellent |
| Availability in Australia | Widely available (standard stock) | Less common in AU market |
Verdict: 6060 is slightly more extrudable but offers lower strength. For the Perth climate and Australian standards (AS1926 for pool fencing), 6063-T5 provides the extra safety margin and is more readily available from Australian suppliers.
6063-T5 vs 6005A
6005A is a higher-strength 6xxx alloy often used in structural applications like truck frames and railway components. While it offers approximately 15-20% higher tensile strength than 6063-T5, it has two significant drawbacks for fencing applications:
- Lower formability: 6005A cannot be formed into the tight-radius curves and intricate detailed profiles that make ACMG fencing visually distinctive.
- Worse surface finish: The higher silicon content required for strength creates a coarser surface texture that is less suitable for decorative powder-coating finishes.
Why ACMG Chooses 6063-T5
After extensive testing and years of experience in the Perth market, we standardised on 6063-T5 for our extruded aluminium fencing, gates, and decking products because it delivers the perfect combination of properties for Western Australian conditions:
- Excellent corrosion resistance – handles Perth’s coastal salt air without rusting
- Superior extrudability – allows us to create precision profiles with clean, sharp lines
- Ideal surface finish – takes powder coating evenly for a premium, long-lasting appearance
- Good strength-to-weight ratio – strong enough to meet AS1926 pool fencing standards while remaining light enough for easy installation
- Australian supply chain – 6063-T5 is widely stocked by Australian aluminium suppliers like Capral and Ullrich
Our Supply Chain & Manufacturing Partnerships
At ACMG, the quality of our products starts with our supply chain. We have established long-term strategic partnerships with multiple multinational publicly listed companies as our core material manufacturers, ensuring every batch of aluminium we use meets rigorous international standards.
? (Huajian Group) ? one of China’s leading construction material conglomerates and a publicly listed company ? is a key partner in our aluminium extrusion supply chain. Their state-of-the-art extrusion facilities produce 6063-T5 profiles to precise tolerances that exceed Australian standards, giving ACMG a competitive advantage in product consistency and dimensional accuracy.
? (Intco Recycling, Shanghai Stock Exchange: 688087) ? a world leader in sustainable material recycling and a publicly listed company ? partners with ACMG to supply high-grade recycled aluminium content for our manufacturing process. This partnership allows us to reduce our carbon footprint without compromising on the structural integrity or surface quality of our 6063-T5 profiles, aligning with our commitment to environmentally responsible construction.
The same extrusion quality and surface finish standards we use are trusted by leading WA manufacturers like Jason Windows ? Western Australia’s premier window and door supplier since 1959. Jason Windows pioneered aluminium windows and doors in WA and their commitment to precision manufacturing, rigorous quality control, and product innovation sets the benchmark that ACMG aligns with. From extrusion tolerances to powder-coating adhesion, the craftsmanship standards we follow mirror those of WA’s most respected aluminium fabricators.
This vertically integrated supply chain ? from listed-company raw material suppliers through to WA-based fabrication ? means that when you choose ACMG, you’re getting products backed by the same industrial-grade quality assurance used in commercial construction and premium architectural projects across Australia.
The Bottom Line
When you choose ACMG, you’re not just getting aluminium fencing — you’re getting the right aluminium alloy engineered for Perth conditions, sourced from publicly listed manufacturers, and fabricated to the same standards trusted by WA’s leading builders. Our 6063-T5 extruded profiles are designed to perform, last, and look beautiful for decades. Visit our Malaga showroom to see the difference premium 6063-T5 makes.
Aluminium Fencing vs Steel Fencing: Which is Better for Perth Homes?
One of the most common questions we hear at ACMG is: Should I choose aluminium fencing or steel fencing? Both materials have their place in the Perth market, but they serve very different needs. In this guide, we break down the key differences to help you make the right choice for your property.
Material Composition
Aluminium fencing from ACMG is made from premium-grade 6063-T5 aluminium alloy, sourced through our long-term partnerships with multinational publicly listed manufacturers including ? (Huajian Group) and ? (Intco Recycling, SSE: 688087) ? the same quality of aluminium used in premium window frames, commercial curtain walls, and architectural applications throughout Australia. It is lightweight, naturally corrosion-resistant, and requires no surface coating to prevent rust.
Steel fencing (often called iron fencing or Colorbond fencing) is made from galvanised or Colorbond-coated steel. Steel is an iron-carbon alloy that is significantly heavier and stronger than aluminium but requires protective coatings to prevent rust.
Key Comparison Table
| Feature | Aluminium Fencing | Steel/Iron Fencing |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light (easy to handle and install) | Heavy (requires more structural support) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent – naturally rust-proof | Moderate – requires galvanising or coating |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years with minimal maintenance | 10-20 years (depends on coating maintenance) |
| Maintenance | None required | Periodic repainting or rust treatment |
| Strength | Good for residential applications | Higher – suitable for high-security applications |
| Cost per linear metre | $$–$$$ | $–$$ (Colorbond) / $$$ (ornamental iron) |
| Colour Options | Wide range of powder-coated colours | Limited to factory coating or paint |
| Perth Climate Performance | Excellent – resistant to UV, salt air, and heat | Good – but can rust if coating is scratched near coast |
Perth Climate Considerations
Perth’s harsh climate ? hot summers, salt-laden coastal air, and occasional winter rain ? makes material choice critical. Aluminium excels in these conditions because it naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents corrosion. Steel, even when galvanised, can develop rust spots over time particularly in coastal suburbs like Fremantle, Rockingham, and Joondalup. The 6063-T5 aluminium we use, sourced through our partnerships with publicly listed manufacturers, offers superior corrosion resistance that is especially important for Perth’s unique environment.
Quality Assurance & Craftsmanship
Beyond the material itself, the quality of your fencing depends on the manufacturing process. ACMG’s aluminium profiles are extruded to the same precision standards trusted by leading WA fabricators such as Jason Windows ? Western Australia’s benchmark for aluminium window and door manufacturing since 1959. Their rigorous quality control processes ? from extrusion tolerance verification to surface finish inspection ? inform our own quality standards.
Our long-term partnerships with publicly listed manufacturers including ? (Huajian Group) and ? (Intco Recycling) ensure that every aluminium billet entering our production line meets strict international quality benchmarks. This industrial-grade supply chain is what sets ACMG apart from importers using unknown-origin materials.
Aesthetics
Aluminium fencing offers clean, modern lines that suit contemporary Perth homes. Slat fencing, in particular, has become the signature look for new developments in Ellenbrook, Baldivis, and Alkimos. The superior surface finish of 6063-T5 aluminium ? the same finish quality required by premium window manufacturers ? ensures that powder coating adheres evenly and lasts longer. Steel Colorbond fencing offers a classic look and is available in 22 standard colours, though scratched coatings can lead to rust. Ornamental iron fencing provides a traditional aesthetic but at a higher cost and with greater maintenance requirements.
Installation
Aluminium fencing is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier and faster to install. This can translate to lower installation costs. Steel fencing often requires heavier posts, more concrete, and sometimes specialised lifting equipment for larger panels.
Our Recommendation
For most Perth residential applications, we recommend aluminium fencing for its superior corrosion resistance, minimal maintenance, modern aesthetic, and the peace of mind that comes from a supply chain backed by publicly listed manufacturers. Choose steel Colorbond fencing when budget is the primary concern or when complete privacy is required. Choose ornamental steel/iron only when a specific traditional look is desired and you are prepared for ongoing maintenance.
Visit our Malaga showroom to compare both materials in person and speak with our expert team.
Composite decking is an excellent choice for Perth homes, offering the beauty of timber without the constant maintenance. However, Perth’s harsh UV exposure and occasional heatwaves mean your composite deck needs some care to stay looking its best.
Why Composite Decking?
Composite decking combines wood fibres with recycled plastics, creating a material that resists rot, warping, and insect damage. For Perth’s climate, this means:
- No staining or sealing required
- UV-resistant pigments prevent fading
- Slip-resistant surface for pool areas
- Withstands temperatures from 0 to 45 degrees
Regular Cleaning Routine
Weekly: Sweep leaves and debris to prevent staining. Rinse with a garden hose to remove dust and pollen.
Monthly: Wash with warm water and mild detergent using a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.
Quarterly: Check for any debris trapped between boards. Clean with a composite deck cleaner if needed.
What to Avoid
- Avoid pressure washing at high PSI — it can damage the surface
- Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals
- Place pot plants on saucers to prevent staining from soil
- Use furniture pads under heavy items to prevent scratching
Perth-Specific Tips
During summer (December-February), rinse your deck in the evening to cool it down. During flowering season (spring), sweep more frequently to prevent pollen and flower stains.
ACMG supplies premium composite decking from leading brands. Visit our showroom in Malaga to see samples.
When choosing between aluminium and steel fencing for your Perth property, several factors come into play. Both materials have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your specific needs, location, and budget.
Aluminium Fencing
Pros: Lightweight, rust-proof, ideal for coastal areas like Fremantle and Rockingham. Available in slat, blade, and flat top designs. Low maintenance — just occasional wash down.
Cons: Less strong than steel, can be more expensive for certain styles, may dent under heavy impact.
Best for: Coastal properties, modern homes, pool fencing, areas where corrosion resistance is critical.
Steel Fencing (Colorbond)
Pros: Very strong and durable, excellent security, wide colour range through Colorbond coating, cost-effective for large areas.
Cons: Heavier, can rust if coating is damaged, gets hot in direct sun, not ideal for coastal areas without proper coating.
Best for: Security fencing, large property boundaries, rural properties, budget-conscious projects.
Perth Climate Considerations
Perth’s coastal location means salt spray is a factor for properties within 5km of the coast. For these areas, aluminium is strongly recommended. For inland suburbs like Midland or Armadale, Colorbond steel offers excellent value.
Our Recommendation
For most Perth homes, we recommend aluminium slat fencing for front boundaries and Colorbond steel for side and rear boundaries — giving you the best of both materials where they matter most.
Browse our full range at ACMG or contact us for expert advice.
Choosing the right fence for your Perth home involves balancing privacy, security, aesthetics, and budget. With Perth’s unique climate considerations — hot summers, coastal salt spray, and occasional storms — your fencing choice matters more than ever.
1. Consider Your Primary Need
Privacy: Slat fencing and blade fencing offer excellent privacy with minimal gaps. Aluminium slat fences are particularly popular in Perth for their modern look and durability.
Security: Spear ring top fencing and flat top fencing provide security while maintaining an elegant appearance. For added security, consider automated gates with remote access.
Pool Safety: Pool fencing must comply with AS1926 Australian standards. Glass fencing or compliant aluminium fencing are popular choices for Perth pools.
2. Material Comparison
Colorbond Steel: Durable, low maintenance, available in many colours. Ideal for Perth’s climate but can get hot in direct sun.
Aluminium: Lightweight, rust-resistant, perfect for coastal areas. Available in powder-coated finishes that withstand Perth’s UV exposure.
Timber: Natural look but requires regular maintenance. Not ideal for coastal areas due to salt damage.
3. Perth Council Regulations
Most Perth councils allow fences up to 1.8m high for side and rear boundaries. Front fences are typically limited to 1.2m. Always check with your local council before installing.
4. Cost Factors
Fencing costs in Perth vary based on material, height, length, and installation complexity. Slat fencing typically costs more than standard Colorbond but offers superior aesthetics and privacy.
Contact ACMG for a free quote tailored to your Perth property.
Colorbond Colour Guide: Popular Colours for Perth Homes in 2026
Choosing the right Colorbond colour for your fence is one of the most important decisions in your home renovation. The colour you choose will define the look of your property for decades to come. Here is our guide to the most popular Colorbond colours for Perth homes and how to choose the right one.
Top 5 Most Popular Colorbond Colours in Perth
1. Monument (Satin Finish)
Perth favourite. Monument is a deep charcoal almost black colour that creates a striking contemporary look. It pairs beautifully with white or light-coloured homes and green landscaping. Its also a top choice for Colorbond fencing combined with modern facades.
2. Basalt
A sophisticated dark grey with subtle warm undertones. Basalt offers the drama of Monument but with a slightly softer appearance. It is extremely popular for Colorbond fencing in Perth northern suburbs.
3. Woodland Grey
A mid-to-dark grey with green undertones that blends naturally with Australian landscaping. Woodland Grey is a popular choice for homes in bushland settings or areas with native gardens. It looks natural and organic.
4. Surfmist
The classic light choice. Surfmist is a soft off-white/light cream that reflects heat and works beautifully with coastal homes. It is the most popular light colour for Colorbond fencing and is a safe choice for any home.
5. Shale Grey
A warm mid-grey that has become increasingly popular. Shale Grey sits between light and dark, making it a versatile choice that works with almost any home colour scheme. It is a popular compromise when couples disagree between light and dark colours.
Matt Finish vs Satin Finish
Colorbond is available in both Matt and Satin finishes. Matt finishes reduce glare and offer a more premium, modern appearance. Satin finishes are classic and easier to keep clean. Popular Matt colours include Matt Monument, Matt Basalt, and Matt Woodland Grey.
Colour Selection Tips
- Match your fence colour to your roof colour for a cohesive look
- Consider your homes rendered or brick colour
- Look at your neighbours fences to ensure compatibility
- Get colour samples from ACMG and test them in natural light
- Dark colours absorb more heat, light colours reflect it
Visit our Malaga showroom to see the full Colorbond colour range in person. We carry samples of all 22 standard colours plus the Matt range.
Gate Automation Perth: Everything You Need to Know About Automatic Gates
An automatic gate is more than a convenience. It adds security, property value, and curb appeal to any Perth home or business. Whether you are considering a sliding or swing gate, understanding the options will help you make the right choice.
Sliding vs Swing Gate Automation
Sliding gates are ideal for properties with limited driveway space or sloped driveways. The gate slides horizontally along a track, requiring clear space along the fence line. Swing gates open inward or outward like a door and require space for the gate arc. They are more common for residential properties with flat driveways.
Motor Selection Guide
Gate motors are rated by weight capacity and usage frequency:
- Residential (light duty): Up to 300kg gates, 30-40 cycles per day
- Residential (heavy duty): Up to 600kg gates, 50-80 cycles per day
- Commercial: Up to 1200kg gates, 100+ cycles per day
- Industrial: Up to 2000kg+, heavy continuous use
Popular brands include ATA, Avanti, and FAAC. ACMG can help match the right motor to your gate.
Safety Features
- Photoelectric sensors: Stop and reverse the gate if an object or person is detected
- Pressure sensitivity: Reverses if the gate encounters resistance
- Emergency release: Manual override for power outages
- Safety stops: Mechanical stops at end of travel
- Warning lights: Flashing lights to alert pedestrians
Smart Home Integration
Modern gate automation systems offer smartphone control via apps, integration with smart home platforms (Google Home, Amazon Alexa), video intercom and CCTV integration, scheduled automatic opening/closing, and remote access monitoring.
Perth Regulations
In Western Australia, automatic gates must comply with Australian Standard AS60068 for safety. Key requirements include minimum 1.5-second delay before closing after opening, obstruction detection that stops and reverses the gate, and manual release mechanism for emergency access. Always use a licensed installer for gate automation electrical work.
Maintenance Tips
- Lubricate moving parts every 6 months
- Check safety sensor alignment quarterly
- Clean photo-eye lenses regularly
- Test emergency release function monthly
- Inspect gate track (for sliding gates) for debris
Contact ACMG for expert advice on gate automation systems for your Perth property.
Australian Pool Fencing Laws AS1926: A Complete Compliance Guide for Perth Homeowners
If you own a pool in Western Australia, complying with Australian Standard AS1926 is not optional. It is the law. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about pool fencing regulations and how to ensure your pool area is compliant.
What is AS1926?
AS1926 is the Australian Standard that specifies safety requirements for swimming pool fencing and barriers. The latest version is AS1926:2022. In WA, the Building Act 2011 and Building Regulations 2012 enforce these requirements for all new and existing pools.
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Minimum height: 1200mm (1.2 metres) from ground level
- Maximum gap: No gap larger than 100mm between vertical bars
- Bottom gap: Maximum 100mm clearance from ground to bottom of fence
- Non-climbable zone: Nothing within 300mm of the fence that could be used as a climbing aid
- Self-closing gate: Must close automatically from any position
- Self-latching: Latch must be at least 1500mm from ground or located on the non-pool side
- Keyed locks: Not permitted on pool gates without a separate release mechanism
Gate Requirements
Pool gates must swing outward away from the pool area. The self-closing mechanism must be strong enough to close the gate from any open position. The latch must engage automatically. Gates must not be able to be propped or held open intentionally.
Common Compliance Mistakes
- Plants or potted plants near the fence that can be climbed
- Furniture or BBQ left near the fence line
- Horizontal rails that can be used as climbing rungs
- Gate not self-latching properly due to misalignment
- Gaps exceeding 100mm as the ground settles
When Do You Need a Pool Safety Certificate?
In Western Australia, pool owners must ensure their pool barrier complies when the pool is installed and at the point of property sale or lease. Local councils may also conduct random inspections. Fines for non-compliance can be significant.
Choosing Compliant Pool Fencing
ACMG supplies a full range of AS1926-compliant pool fencing materials:
- Frameless glass pool fencing (most popular for modern homes)
- Framed glass pool fencing (more affordable option)
- Aluminium pool fencing (available in multiple Colorbond colours)
- Self-closing gate hinges and self-latching mechanisms
All our products meet WA regulations. Visit our Malaga showroom to see our pool fencing range in person.
Composite Decking vs Timber Decking Perth: The Complete 2026 Guide
One of the biggest decisions Perth homeowners face when planning an outdoor renovation is choosing between composite decking and timber decking. Both have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your priorities. In this guide we compare every aspect to help you decide.
Upfront Cost Comparison
Timber decking typically costs $80-$160 per square metre for materials, making it the more affordable upfront option. Composite decking ranges from $120-$250 per square metre. Popular timber species in Perth include Merbau, Spotted Gum, and Jarrah. Composite brands like ModWood and Futurewood offer a range of colours and finishes.
Lifetime Cost Analysis
While timber is cheaper to install, the long-term costs tell a different story. Timber decking requires oiling or staining every 12-18 months in Perth climate, replacement of weathered boards every 10-15 years, and ongoing maintenance. Composite decking requires no painting, staining, or sealing and typically carries a 25-year warranty.
Aesthetic Comparison
Timber offers natural beauty, unique grain patterns, and authentic warmth that composite cannot fully replicate. It weathers to a natural silver-grey if left untreated, which many homeowners love. Composite has improved dramatically in recent years with realistic wood-grain embossing and a wide range of colours from warm browns to cool greys.
Perth Climate Performance
- Heat: Dark-coloured composite can get hotter than timber underfoot in summer
- UV: Modern composite resists fading well; timber will naturally silver
- Moisture: Composite is impervious to moisture; timber needs proper sealing
- Termites: Composite is termite-proof; timber requires treatment
Installation Considerations
Composite decking uses hidden fastening systems for a clean finish but requires specific substructure spacing. Timber decking uses traditional screws and is more forgiving for DIY installation. Both require proper ventilation and drainage underneath.
Our Verdict
Choose composite decking if you want a low-maintenance outdoor area that will look great for decades. Choose timber decking if you love the natural look and dont mind the annual upkeep. Many of our customers choose composite for high-traffic areas and timber for garden settings.
Why Aluminium Slat Fencing is Dominating Perth’s Suburbs
Drive through any new development in Perth’s northern corridor — from Alkimos to Ellenbrook — and you’ll notice a pattern: aluminium slat fencing is everywhere. What started as an architectural trend in high-end builds has become the standard choice for Perth homeowners.
The Rise of the Modern Facade
Perth’s housing aesthetic has shifted dramatically over the past decade. Rendered facades, clean lines, and monochromatic colour schemes now dominate. Aluminium slat fencing fits this aesthetic perfectly with sleek horizontal lines complementing contemporary architecture.
Built for the WA Climate
Perth demands materials that handle 40-degree summers, driving winter rain, and intense UV. Aluminium delivers on all fronts:
- UV Stability: Powder-coated aluminium doesn’t fade or chalk under Perth’s harsh sun. Colorbond-certified finishes carry 10-year warranty against colour change.
- Thermal Performance: Unlike steel, aluminium doesn’t become painfully hot to touch in summer, safer around children and pets.
- Coastal Resilience: From Two Rocks to Mandurah, aluminium’s protective oxide layer naturally resists salt spray — no protective coatings needed.
Privacy Without the Prison Feel
Traditional Colorbond fencing offers complete privacy but can feel imposing. Aluminium slats strike the perfect balance: adjustable spacing lets you choose between full screening or filtered light and airflow. A 5-10mm gap maintains privacy while allowing Perth’s afternoon breezes through.
Developer Favourites
Major Perth developers including Satterley, Peet, and Stockland now specify aluminium slat fencing in many estates: Brabham, Alkimos Beach, Piara Waters, Burns Beach, and more.
The Investment Angle
Quality front fencing adds value to Perth properties. A well-designed aluminium slat fence creates instant street appeal. At – per linear metre supply, it’s an investment that pays for itself at sale time.
ACMG stocks a full range of aluminium slat fencing in all popular Colorbond colours. Explore our collection or get a free quote.