Guide to Fencing Prices & Costs to Fence a Yard - HomeAdvisor
Wood & Privacy
Installing a wooden fence costs most homeowners an average of $1,700 to $4,000, or $10 to $20 per foot. Wood is one of the most common products for this project and it can last a long time if you treat it correctly. The products usually consist of pine, redwood, cedar, or other species that are resilient when wet. Though it usually has a natural look, it is both stainable and paintable. Wood, along with vinyl and stone, is a great product for privacy fencing.
For more information, please visit 358 security fence factory.
Pros and Cons
Chain link fences cost $1,100 to $2,700 to install and range from $5 to $40 per foot. Chain link is one of the most affordable options. The price varies mostly due to height, as a 6-foot or 8-foot style will take more material per linear foot than a 4-foot style. You can also expect to pay up to $2 more per linear foot for a vinyl-coated chain link versus an uncoated, galvanized chain link.
Since it's made for function instead of form, it's great for delineating property lines or keeping in pets, but it doesn't make for a particularly attractive border.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Durable, affordable, and effective.
Cons: Generally considered the least attractive product type and is susceptible to rust.
Vinyl
Vinyl fencing installation costs between $2,000 and $5,000 and averages $20 to $25 per foot. It is affordable, lightweight, durable, and easy to set up. It is not good for security, however, as it can't withstand attempts to cut through it. Some homeowners consider it to be unattractive. Some of these products mimic the look of wood, but most resemble plastic.
Pros and Cons
Aluminum
Installing aluminum fencing costs the average American homeowner between $2,000 and $5,000 at a rate of $20 to $30 per foot. It offers an attractive, lightweight alternative to other kinds of metal, including the heavyweight wrought iron. Aluminum also tends to be one of the most affordable metal options, and it's durable, which means you'll spend less on upkeep in the long run.
Pros and Cons
Wrought Iron
Installing wrought iron fencing costs $1,300 to $4,100 and runs at a rate of $20 to $35 per foot. Wrought iron is one of the most secure products for this project and is also one of the most traditionally beautiful.
This heavy-duty option also makes for an effective barrier that will keep your yard secure from unwanted human, animal, and other guests. Since it is highly customized for each job, chances are that it will be a perfect fit.
Pros and Cons
Barbed Wire
Barbed wire fencing costs $1,200 to $3,500 to install, at a rate of $1 to $6 per foot. Ranchers usually use it to keep livestock -- cows, horses, etc. -- confined in pastures or on ranches.
This style is sometimes used with woven wire to prevent large animals from breaking it down when they get rowdy or excited. For smaller animals, it's good at keeping them from digging underneath to get out. For farming or crop areas, it protects against large animals from getting in and destroying the crops.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Secure, inexpensive, good for farmland and ranches.
Cons: Potentially dangerous for kids and can be expensive if you use a lot of additional supplies.
Woven Wire Fence Costs
Woven wire fence installation costs $1,700 to $3,500 and typically runs $2 to $4 per foot. The price marker used is one acre, or 836 feet, because this product is popular in agricultural situations. A 200-foot option could be as little as $400.
This product is more complex to set up, but it is a better option for containing horses, goats, and sheep than other wire alternatives or wood. It consists of wires secured together by knots where they intersect.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Secure, strong, and safe for farm animals like horses and sheep.
Cons: Animals grazing along the edge may get their foot stuck in the wire and wild animals may try to jump it.
Mesh & Chicken Wire
The cost to install mesh and chicken wire usually lands in a range of $600 to $1,300 and $4 to $10 per foot. This average is for farm-use situations with 8 to 18-foot posts.
People use mesh and chicken wire to pen in small animals like pigs, rabbits, and chickens. Chicken wire is also known as poultry netting. It is durable, flexible, and made by twisting thin wires together to form a net structure.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Flexible and durable. Great for keeping in smaller livestock.
Cons: Can rust and stray wires may be hazardous to animals. You will have to check it regularly for cuts, holes, and loose connections.
Hog Wire & Hog Panel Fencing Prices
Installing hog wire & hog panel fencing costs $500 to $1,000 for an average-sized backyard - which ranges from 150 to 170 linear feet - and runs $3 to $5 per foot. For a quarter of a mile, the cost would range from $4,000 to $6,500.
Hog wire, also known as hog panel, is a firm, rigid metal option that consists of welded wire intersections. It is usually a shorter option, up to 50 inches in height, used to pen in small animals or as a farm-style perimeter for residences.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Inexpensive, durable, and flexible.
Cons: Doesn't lend to privacy.
Deer Fence Cost
Deer fencing costs $600 to $900 for a typical backyard and will be around $4 to $6 per foot. For larger properties and acreage, expect to pay closer to $5,000 to $8,000.
This option consists of a very strong, tight mesh and people consider it a safe way to keep deer off your property.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Safe, low-cost means of deterring deer.
Cons: Tighter mesh will incur more overall damage when struck or broken.
Board on Board
The cost to install board on board fencing is $3,500 to $4,500 and $15 to $25 per foot.
This style consists of board panels on either side of central rails, layered and overlapping by an average of an inch. This makes for an elegant design and excellent privacy. They primarily consist of wood, though there are vinyl alternatives available.
Pros and Cons
Security Fence
The average backyard security fence costs $2,500 to $6,000 and around $15 to $40 per foot.
Wire mesh, chain link, and metal options are commonly used materials for this purpose. The following are the most ideal qualities of a security-minded barrier:
Pros and Cons
Pros: Offers visibility and safety at once, making your property less vulnerable to crime.
Cons: Height adds significantly to the overall expense. Must inspect regularly for cuts and breakage to ensure optimal safety.
Electric/Invisible
Electric fences cost $1,000 to $1,500, or $1 to $6 per foot, to put in and they are great for containing your pets. They are also more economical than erecting other products.
Electric styles are a great way to train your pet and protect them from hurting themselves or potentially hurting someone. They're an effective way to not compromise the beauty of your landscape and keep your pet safe. They're also considered a humane form of training.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Affordable, allows flexibility in landscape, and still effective for pet training.
Cons: Can be painful for the dog while they train, considered punishment for the pet, and some types involve digging up the yard.
Horse & Farm Fencing
Horse & farm fencing installation costs $600 to $5,000 and ranges from $5 to $30 per foot. The range in price is due to the variety of options. Horse and farm options include wooden styles like split rail and ranch, wire styles like mesh and woven, as well as vinyl versions of ranch styles. Wire styles are cheaper, coming in around $5 to $10 per foot, while vinyl ranges up near $15 to $30 per foot.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Lots of options available to meet your needs, from low-maintenance vinyl to low-cost wire.
Cons: There's no such thing as a "no-escape guarantee," so you'll need to keep an eye on the structure to make sure it remains intact. Vinyl railings, for example, can come loose under pressure. And wood can break, splinter and rot.
Split Rail
The cost to install split rail fencing is $2,500 to $4,000 and $10 to $20 per foot.
Split rail is also known as a log fence. It is made from split logs of various species of wood, and your price will vary based on the type of wood you choose. The split logs are affixed horizontally as rails and supported by posts. This feature is commonly used as a barrier for livestock and horses.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Has a classic, rustic visual appeal and is great as a barrier for animals and livestock.
Cons: Made of a high-maintenance material that will demand resealing or repainting. Risk of rot.
Brick, Stone, or Concrete Block
Installations made of brick, stone, or concrete block cost $2,100 to $7,000 and $15 to $40 per foot. These are more expensive options because they demand extensive labor as well as special equipment and skill.
As a material, concrete is the least expensive of the three. And the overall price of a stone project will also vary depending on the type used.
Pros and Cons
Composite & Trex
Installing composite and Trex fencing costs $4,000 to $6,000 and typically runs $15 to $45 per foot. It involves a significant investment upfront, but it will not require as much maintenance and upkeep as most other products. Composite comes in various styles and colors and can last over 20 years. With composite, you can get the visual appeal of wood without the high maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Fencing Installation Considerations
Labor expenses can vary as greatly as material expenses when you take factors like permits, grading, and job complexity into account. Though part of your labor rate depends on the contractor and his or her skill level, the following are common factors that will also have an influence.
Permits
If your area requires one, a permit for a fence could cost $20 to $60. This type of project almost always requires a permit from the local authorities due to the property modification. Determine what kinds of permits are necessary, which authority grants them and who will file for them. Some contractors will file themselves while others depend on the homeowner to complete this administrative task.
Utilities
Requesting that local utility companies locate their respective lines within the proposed fencing area is another administrative task to complete before work begins. Ask whether the contractor will contact and schedule appointments for the following utility companies to inspect the area:
Grading
Uneven land or higher-grade areas can mean tough working conditions for contractors. It also means that the project and products won't be straightforward. Instead, contractors need to customize components to fit the grade. Certain products are suited to uneven land and high grades, so be sure to get an expert opinion.
Ground condition
Ground condition and type can vary even in the same yard area. Though professionals can work with most ground conditions, and may even be able to anticipate where challenging ground lies, some ground types require more work or equipment than others. Rocky, wet, or clay ground areas, for instance, could increase project expenses.
Job complexity
Pre-existing structures, trees, and other materials on the project site can impact the complexity of the job and its final cost. Be sure to understand the job complexity and timeline before signing on with a professional.
Front Yard vs. Backyard Fencing
Whether you are fencing in the front yard, backyard, or both will play a key role in your project.
If your neighborhood and county allow you may be able to put up an eight-foot fence. Extra height like this, or extra length, could add around 30 percent to both material and labor expenses.
Fence Gate
Adding regular gates will be around $200 to $600 per gate. This number is dependent upon the product used and how involved the work is. Matching the gate material to the fence isn't necessary but will impact overall expense. If you are in need of a driveway option, security gates cost an average of $700 to $3,000.
Pros & Cons of Building a Fence
Other considerations and potential benefits or drawbacks to keep in mind are:
Property value: When determining whether to put up a fence, think about your neighborhood. If all the other houses in your area have them, then it's likely to increase the value. If none of the other houses have them though, yours is going to stand out and probably decrease the value.
HOA: Homeowner associations sometimes have specific outlines about what kind you can have. That's because it must match the rest of the neighborhood. This includes materials, depth, and height. You need to be ready to meet those standards and have a budget prepared.
Return on investment: This home improvement usually provides a good return on investment, if you follow the above-mentioned guides. You also shouldn't spend more on this feature than the value of your home. Akin to a bathroom remodel, you shouldn't spend more than 5% of your home's value on this project - probably lean more towards 1% of your home's value.
Neighboring fences: If your neighboring property has a wood fence and you put up a brick one, your home is going to stand out - and not in a good way. Try to have yours blend in as much as possible. It will appeal more to potential buyers.
Security: You want an installation that's secure, so think about making it at least 6 feet tall so it's not easy for people to climb over. Pick a material that complements your home while keeping your home safe.
Pets & children: Akin to security, you want to keep your pets and children safe. Enclosing your yard keeps them from wandering away. Make sure you plant the fence deep so animals can't easily dig out underneath it. You also don't want it too short so that dogs can't jump over it, and children can't easily climb over, either.
How to Estimate Your Fencing Costs
Most homeowners choose to work with a professional due to the level of skilled labor required for this project. Before contacting a professional, though, start to get an idea of the pricing involved. Be sure to estimate the basic material prices in advance and compare those calculations with the total project estimates from a professional.
1. Choose Look and Quality
These components are subject to the homeowner's preferences and the project budget. Determine the best look for the site, whether it's basic chain link, smart wood, or elegant wrought iron, and opt for a level of quality appropriate for the budget.
2. Measure Accurately
The cost to hire a land surveyor to measure your yard accurately falls between $300 and $700. Only a legal survey can determine the precise property line around which to construct a fence. Refer to this official document when calculating measurements and dimensions.
3. Find an Expert
Not all experts are created equal, and some have more experience or better reviews than others. Be sure to read reviews from trusted resources or fellow homeowners to find the best contractor for the job.
Fence Quotes
Get three estimates from different pros before hiring. If you only solicit an estimate from one contractor, you'll have no way of knowing how that measures up against other local contractors. Obtaining estimates from three different contractors will give you a more accurate picture of the materials and labor rate in your area.
How Much Does A Privacy Fence Cost In 2024?
Privacy fence installation can cost between $12 to $50 per linear foot depending on materials and the height of the fence. Privacy fences offer backyards protection from the wandering eyes of neighboring properties. The average yard perimeter measures about 150 total linear feet, making the total average cost about $3,300. The most popular types of privacy fences are made of wood, vinyl or aluminum. Fence installation is not a complicated project, but adding extra height or managing difficult terrain can affect the total cost.
Privacy Fence Installation Cost Per Foot
Fence installation is typically estimated by cost per linear foot. A yard’s total linear feet is equal to the length of the yard’s perimeter. This means that the size of the yard will have a big impact on the total cost. The terrain and layout of the yard can also have a major impact on cost.
Materials and labor each make up about half of the price per linear foot. Price points can vary based on the type of material, the fence height and the style of the fence. Corner posts, gates and hardware purchases are additional costs that factor into the total estimate.
It may be worth hiring a land surveyor to get the most accurate measurement of a yard’s perimeter. Accurate cost estimates will help with ordering the right amount of material and making a final decision.
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Privacy Fence Installation Cost by Material Type
Privacy fence costs depend on the type of material. The most common types of privacy fences are wood, vinyl, aluminum and board on board. There are many varieties within each category that can affect cost. For example, there are several different types of wood that each has varying longevity and cost.
We’ll go over the most common privacy fences found around homes and their costs.
Wood
Wood is the most common material used for privacy fences. It is strong, versatile and can last for up to 20 years. However, wooden privacy fences can be costly depending on the type of wood used.
Pine, cedar and redwood are among the most popular. Cedar is arguably the best type because of its natural oils that protect it from moisture, insect damage and decay. Cheaper wood material like pine may require frequent treatment to protect from the elements. Pine also won’t last as long.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a popular option because of its versatility. There are many styles and colors to choose from, like faux wood or white vinyl. Vinyl is more costly than wood, but it lasts longer and is more durable. Vinyl doesn’t suffer from rot, corrosion or warps. Vinyl can be fairly low maintenance as long as it’s installed properly.
Board on Board or Shadowbox
Board on board and shadowbox fences are more of a style than a material. A central rail is installed across the fence where boards are placed on alternating sides. This creates an overlapping pattern that looks the same on both sides of the fence making it a great option for a 6-foot privacy fence in a backyard.
Board on board fences can be made with wood, vinyl, aluminum and composite materials. They are attractive options for many homes. Keep in mind that this fence style is not completely private—anyone looking at the fence from a side angle will be able to see through the small gaps between the boards.
Types of Fencing Material Cost Per Linear Foot
Privacy Fence Installation Cost
Privacy fence installation costs depend on several factors, especially if the fence is brand new. Homeowners should always consider city or HOA guidelines before installing a new fence, as permits may be needed for fences more than six feet tall and zoning laws and utility lines could affect the fence perimeter and shape.
Labor costs could increase significantly if the ground conditions are too rocky or soggy. Extra-long or extra-high fences could also be more costly depending on how many more boards are needed and whether the planks need to be special-ordered.
The cheapest fences are built in straight lines with minimal corners. Adding complexities like curves or obstacles could drive up the fence installation cost. Corner posts tend to be more expensive than the material cost per foot; the more corner posts are needed, the more expensive the project will be. If purchasing fence materials that are taller than 6 feet, expect to add an additional 25% of the material cost to the total budget.
If buying materials from someone other than a contractor, professional labor per hour can be added separately to the total budget. Homeowners can expect an average of $35 an hour for labor depending on their location and the chosen contractor.
Getting Privacy Fence Estimates
Exact measurements of the perimeter to be fenced are vital to accurate pricing estimates. Estimate how many corner posts will be needed to complete the perimeter plus how wide the gate will be. Decide on the right height (the taller the fence, the more expensive the project).
Once these factors have been considered, research the best materials and pick one that suits the exterior of the home and the desired budget. Find the average price per foot and multiply it by the total linear feet measured earlier to get a price estimate. Keep in mind the cost for gates and corner posts will still need to be researched and added to the total cost.
Estimates will always vary when shopping for a contractor. Professional estimates are good to have on hand. Remember, complications can arise during installation which may affect the final cost.
Fence Replacement Cost
Fence replacements are fairly straightforward. In addition to the cost for a new fence and labor, fence removals add $3 to 5 per linear foot. Note that if previously installed fences are made from treated wood, there may be extra steps and costs associated with disposing of this material in some states.
Factors Affecting Privacy Fence Cost
When planning for a privacy fence project, it’s essential to consider numerous factors. This will ensure that you comprehensively understand the potential costs and can plan accordingly.
Height
If you’re looking to build a fence, it’s essential to consider the height of the fence. Taller fences require more materials and labor, which can increase the overall cost.
However, shorter fences are a great option if you’re looking for a fence that can keep your yard safe but won’t break the bank. They require less material than taller fences since they don’t need as much support to keep them standing.
Length
Longer fences are a great way to add more privacy and security to your home, but they come with a higher price tag. Like taller fences, longer fences will require more materials and labor, ultimately increasing the overall cost.
Materials
Choosing the right material for a fence is an essential part of planning for a fence project, as it can significantly affect the project’s cost. Wood, vinyl, aluminum and composite materials are all popular choices for privacy fences, each with benefits and drawbacks.
Labor
Labor costs to install the fence can vary depending on the project’s complexity, the time required and the installer’s skill level. The overall cost will also depend on how long it takes to finish. If your fence is simple and requires little effort for installation, then you’ll likely pay less for labor than if your fence requires more skill or more time to install.
Slope and Site Prep
If a fence is installed on your property, it’s important to consider how many challenges you’ll have to overcome. For example, if the property has a slope, installing a privacy fence can be more challenging and require additional labor and materials, increasing the installation cost.
Another factor that affects a fence’s installation cost is site prep. Site prep is preparing the area where your fence will go for construction. This can include grading or leveling the ground so it’s flat and smooth, installing footings and posts, putting in any drainage systems needed and more.
Additional Costs
When planning a fence project, it’s important to factor in all these costs and considerations to ensure you understand the potential expenses. This way, you can budget appropriately and avoid unexpected costs later on.
Permits
If you’re looking to install a fence, be sure to check with your local city or county government about any permits that might be required. Depending on where you live, you may need a fence permit before installing a fence, and these permits often come with additional fees and requirements.
Existing Fence Removal
It’s not uncommon for a fence installation to include the cost of removing and disposing of your old fence properly. In that case, this can add to the project’s cost due to the excess labor involved in removing the old fence and disposing of it properly than there would be if it wasn’t already installed.
Landscaping
Landscaping is typically an important home improvement project. If your property has landscaping that needs to be removed or modified to install the fence, this can add to the project’s cost. It’s important to consider the cost of any additional required work when deciding whether or not to install a fence.
Painting and Sealing
Painting and sealing your fence can be a great way to protect it from the harsh elements. It can also add to the cost of your project, so you may want to consider this added expense when choosing your fence’s material.
When Do You Need a Privacy Fence
There are many reasons to invest in a privacy fence. A fence can be the perfect addition to your backyard and provide you with security, privacy and style, plus a variety of additional factors, such as:
Safety and Security
Safety is a top priority for every homeowner, and you’ll want to ensure that your fence will secure your property to the highest standards. A privacy fence can be an effective way to improve the security of your property. By blocking the view of your property, a privacy fence can make it more difficult for potential intruders to see what is inside, reducing the likelihood of break-ins or theft. Additionally, privacy fences can be designed to be difficult to climb, further enhancing their security benefits.
Some privacy fences can also be equipped with gates or locking mechanisms, providing additional protection for your property. However, it’s important to note that no fence is completely impenetrable, and additional security measures may be necessary, such as installing security cameras or alarms.
Property Delineation
A privacy fence can be an excellent way to protect your home and property. Not only can it help keep people, animals and objects outside of your yard, but it can also serve as a way to delineate your property and create clear boundaries between your land and your neighbor’s. This can help prevent disputes over property lines or encroachments, which can be a source of stress and conflict.
Block Out Unsightly Views
Privacy fences are an effective way to create a sense of seclusion and privacy on your property. They can be particularly useful in areas with unsightly views, such as busy roads or commercial buildings, or neighboring properties with unattractive features. By blocking these views, a privacy fence can help create a more peaceful environment that’s enjoyable to be in. This can be especially important for homeowners who value their outdoor living spaces and want to relax and entertain without being disturbed by unsightly views.
Seclusion
Privacy fences are a great way to add privacy and seclusion to your outdoor living space. They provide a barrier between your property and the outside world, which helps create a sense of privacy and seclusion for your outdoor living space. Seclusion can be particularly important for homeowners who live in close proximity to neighbors or near busy roads.
Tips to Save on Privacy Fence Costs
If you’re in the market for a privacy fence, you might wonder how much it will cost. The good news is that there are several ways to save on your privacy fence installation expenses without sacrificing quality or functionality. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Save on Material Type
When building your new privacy fence, you have a few options: wood, vinyl and other materials. While each has pros and cons, wood is often the most affordable option but requires more maintenance than other materials. Vinyl is more expensive but requires less maintenance and lasts longer.
Get Multiple Quotes
When you shop around, you can receive multiple quotes and compare prices from different contractors to get the best deal possible. You’ll also be able to see what other fences people have installed, so you can make sure your fence matches your house and yard perfectly.
Try DIY Installation
Installing your own fence can be a great way to save on labor costs. However, if you’re unsure how to build one from scratch or don’t have experience with fences, it may be better to hire a professional to do the job for you.
Consider Fence Height
If you’re looking to build a fence, you’ve probably considered the height of the fence. The taller the fence, the more expensive it will be. Consider whether you need a fence over 6 feet tall, as shorter fences can still provide privacy and security.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Privacy Fence Installation
When it comes to installing a privacy fence, you have a choice between hiring a professional or DIY. While hiring a professional may be more costly, it can ensure that the job is done right the first time and save you time and effort. On the other hand, doing it yourself may be less expensive but also more time-consuming and potentially lead to mistakes.
When deciding whether to install a fence yourself or hire a professional, consider your level of experience with similar projects (both with tools and techniques), the complexity of the installation and your budget. If you have experience with DIY home projects and are comfortable with the tools and techniques required for fence installation, doing it yourself may be a viable option. However, if you’re new to DIY or if the installation requires a high level of expertise, it may be best to leave it to the professionals. Ultimately, the most important factor is ensuring that your privacy fence is installed correctly and meets your needs for privacy, security and aesthetics.
Bottom Line
Privacy fence installation can be a straightforward project best done by a professional contractor. Take accurate measurements when determining the total linear feet of a perimeter (a land surveyor can help). Try not to drive costs up with fancy fencing materials. Consider longevity and maintenance and choose what works best with the house’s exterior. Get estimates from multiple contractors to compare and contrast pricing. The cheapest option is not always the best option.
To arrive at the average costs in this article, two material providers and five cost databases were surveyed on national and local levels. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
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