Choosing the Right Fence for Your Perth Property

When it comes to fencing your Perth property, the debate between Colorbond steel and traditional timber is one of the most common questions we hear at ACMG. Both materials have their devoted fans, but which one is truly right for your home? In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know.

Lifespan and Durability

Colorbond steel fencing, manufactured by BlueScope Steel, offers an impressive lifespan of 20-30 years with virtually no maintenance. The baked-on paint system resists chipping, peeling, and fading even under Perth’s harsh sun. Timber fencing, while beautiful, typically lasts 10-15 years and requires regular staining or painting every 2-3 years to prevent rot and weather damage.

Cost Comparison

While Colorbond has a higher upfront cost ($75-$120 per linear metre installed compared to timber at $60-$100), the lifetime cost often favours Colorbond when you factor in ongoing maintenance expenses for timber. Timber also requires occasional replacement of individual palings, adding to long-term costs.

Climate Resistance

Perth’s hot summers and occasional winter rains demand materials that can handle extremes. Colorbond excels here:

• Fire-resistant – Colorbond is non-combustible
• Termite-proof – Steel is immune to termite damage
• Rust-resistant – Zinc/aluminium coating with corrosion warranty

Timber requires treatment to resist termites and moisture damage, and may warp or crack in direct sun exposure.

Aesthetic Considerations

Colorbond offers 22 standard colours including popular Perth choices like Monument, Basalt, Woodland Grey, and Surfmist. Timber offers natural warmth and can be painted or stained to match any colour scheme.

Our Recommendation

For boundary fences and street-facing elevations, we recommend Colorbond for its longevity and low maintenance. For garden settings, pool areas, and feature fences, timber offers natural beauty that many homeowners love. Many Perth homeowners choose a combination of both materials.

Visit our Malaga showroom to see both options in person and speak with our expert team. We carry the full Colorbond range and select premium timber fencing materials.

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Choosing the Right Fence for Your Perth Property

Perth’s unique climate demands fencing that is both durable and stylish. From coastal breezes of Fremantle to the dry heat of the Swan Valley, your fence needs to withstand Western Australia’s harsh conditions while complementing your home’s architecture.

Popular Fencing Options in Perth

Aluminium Slat Fencing — The modern choice for Perth homeowners. Aluminium slats offer privacy without blocking airflow, ideal for hot summers. Powder-coated to resist corrosion in popular Colorbond colours including Monument, Surfmist, and Basalt.

Colorbond Steel Fencing — A classic Australian choice providing complete privacy and noise reduction. Termite-proof, fire-resistant, with 10-year warranty.

Glass Pool Fencing — Frameless and semi-frameless panels meeting AS1926.1 safety standards with unobstructed pool views.

Timber Fencing — Traditional and cost-effective treated pine, though requiring more maintenance than metal alternatives.

Key Considerations for Perth

• Coastal properties within 1km of the coast should use aluminium or marine-grade materials
• Front fencing limited to 1.2m height without planning permit in most councils
• All pool fences must comply with AS1926.1 and be council-inspected
• Wind rating Region B required for Perth area

Visit ACMG’s Malaga showroom at 7 Rowe Street. Browse fencing range or get a free quote.

WPC Composite vs Natural Timber Decking: Which Should You Choose?

When planning a new deck for your Perth home, the material choice is critical. WPC composite has surged in popularity, but timber still has its place. Let’s compare them.

Durability and Maintenance

WPC Composite: Virtually maintenance-free. No sanding, oiling, or staining. Resists rot, warping, splintering, and termites. Expected lifespan 25-30 years. Simply wash with soap and water.

Natural Timber: Requires annual oiling or staining. Susceptible to rot, termites, and splintering in Perth’s climate. With proper maintenance, 15-20 years for treated pine.

Appearance

WPC: Modern manufacturing produces realistic wood grain textures. Available in colours from light oak to dark charcoal. Consistent and fade-resistant.

Timber: Genuine natural beauty with unique grain variation. Jarrah and Merbau offer rich warm tones. However, timber greys and fades without regular maintenance under Perth’s intense UV.

Cost Comparison (Perth 2026)

• WPC Hollow Decking: -/m2 supply
• WPC Solid Decking: -/m2 supply
• WPC Co-extrusion: -/m2 supply
• Treated Pine: -/m2 supply
• Jarrah Hardwood: -/m2 supply

The Verdict

For most Perth homeowners, WPC composite offers better long-term value. The higher upfront cost is offset by zero maintenance and longer lifespan. View decking products or get a free quote.

AS1926.1 Pool Fencing Compliance: What Every Perth Homeowner Must Know

In Western Australia, drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children under five. Pool fencing isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s the law.

Key AS1926.1 Requirements

Height

Pool fences must be minimum 1,200mm high, measured from finished ground level on the outside. Horizontal rails on the outside must be spaced at least 900mm apart to prevent climbing.

Gaps

Maximum gap between vertical bars or panels is 100mm. For glass panels, the gap between panels must also be no more than 100mm. The gap between the bottom of the fence and ground must not exceed 100mm.

Non-Climbable Zone (NCZ)

A 900mm non-climbable zone must be maintained on the outside of the fence. No objects (trees, furniture, BBQ) within 900mm that a child could use to climb over.

Gates

• Must swing outwards away from the pool
• Must be self-closing from any position
• Must be self-latching with automatic engagement
• Latch release at least 1,500mm above ground
• Gate must not be able to be propped open

WA-Specific Rules

Local councils inspect pool barriers at installation, every 4 years, and when selling. Fines for non-compliance exceed ,000.

ACMG’s aluminium pool fence panels are pre-engineered to meet AS1926.1 requirements out of the box. View compliant pool fencing or contact us for a quote.

The Complete Guide to Aluminium Slat Fencing Design

Aluminium slat fencing has transformed from niche architectural choice to one of Australia’s most sought-after fencing styles. Its clean lines, versatility, and low-maintenance profile make it the go-to option for modern Perth homes.

Why Choose Aluminium Slats?

• Corrosion Resistance: Aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer, making it ideal for Perth’s coastal suburbs. Unlike steel, it won’t rust even within the salt spray zone.
• Lightweight Strength: Aluminium weighs about one-third of steel while offering excellent structural strength for easier installation.
• Customisable: Powder coating offers virtually unlimited colour options from standard Colorbond colours to custom matches.
• Low Maintenance: No painting, no rust treatment. An occasional wash with mild detergent keeps it looking new for decades.

Design Options

Horizontal vs Vertical: Horizontal slats create a contemporary streamlined look and can make a property appear wider. Vertical slats suit traditional aesthetics for side and rear boundaries.

Slat Spacing: 0mm gap for full privacy (max 1.2m front fence height). 5-10mm gap for semi-private with airflow. 15-25mm gap for open visibility, often used for pool fencing.

Posts: Exposed posts for structured sectional look, or hidden posts for seamless floating appearance.

Popular Colours for Perth

• Monument (dark charcoal) — modern minimalist homes
• Surfmist (off-white) — coastal and Hamptons-style
• Basalt (mid-grey) — versatile neutral
• Woodland Grey — softer alternative to black
• Black — bold statement with greenery contrast

Cost Guide (Perth 2026)

• Aluminium slat panels: – per linear metre supply
• Installation: – per linear metre
• Matching gates: -,500 depending on width and automation

Visit our Malaga showroom to see full-size displays. Browse slat fencing or request a free quote.

5 Warning Signs Your Driveway Gate Needs Replacing

Your driveway gate opens and closes thousands of times per year, exposed to Perth’s sun, wind, and rain. Eventually, even the best gate reaches end of life. Here are five signs it’s time for a replacement.

1. The Gate Sags or Drags on the Ground

If your sliding gate scrapes the driveway or your swing gate has dropped on its hinges, the frame may be fatigued. Persistent sagging usually indicates structural compromise. A new aluminium gate with reinforced frame will operate smoothly for decades.

2. The Motor Struggles or Makes Unusual Noises

Grinding, whining, or jerky movement suggests the motor is working too hard — often fighting a misaligned or overly heavy gate. Modern gate motors are quieter, more energy-efficient, and offer smart features like phone app control.

3. Visible Rust or Corrosion

Perth’s coastal suburbs are particularly tough on steel gates. Once rust takes hold, it spreads and weakens the structure. Upgrade to aluminium — it’s naturally corrosion-resistant and won’t rust, even in the salt spray zone.

4. The Gate Doesn’t Meet Current Safety Standards

AS/NZS 60335-2-103 governs gate safety. If your gate lacks safety beams, pressure-sensitive edges, or manual release mechanisms, it may not comply. A new installation ensures family and visitor protection.

5. It Looks Outdated

An old weathered gate drags down your property’s kerb appeal. Aluminium slat gates in modern Colorbond finishes can completely transform your home’s street presence.

ACMG Gate Solutions

We supply aluminium sliding and swing driveway gates with matching automation: FAAC, BFT, and Nice motors with full warranty. Browse gate range or book a free site assessment.