Fence Installation Cost Guide
The average fence installation cost is $4,000 for 155 linear feet. Higher-end projects cost up to $13,000. Wood fences average $15-$33 per linear foot, and vinyl fences cost $20-$70 per linear foot. About 50% of fence installation costs cover labor and materials. The remaining expenses go to permits, surveys, and gate installation.
Cost to Install a Fence Per Linear Foot
The size of your yard impacts the total cost of fencing. The average fencing cost is about $22 per linear foot.
| Size in Linear Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 200 | $2,200 |
| 350 | $7,700 |
| 500 | $11,000 |
| 800 | $17,600 |
| 2000 | $44,000 |
| 3500 | $77,000 |
Hiring a land surveyor to take your fence measurements helps avoid costly mistakes.
Installation Costs Per Acre
You need 836 feet of fencing to enclose a one-acre plot of land. To determine how much it will cost, multiply 836 by the fencing cost per linear foot.
| Size in Acreage | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Acre | $21,000 |
| ½ Acre | $10,000 |
| ¼ Acre | $5,300 |
| ⅕ Acre | $4,600 |
Fence Installation Cost by Type
Wrought Iron Fence
Wrought iron fences are versatile and used for both decorative and security purposes. They’re heavy, black-painted fences with finials, spikes, and ornamental design elements. The thicker the material, the higher it costs.
| Wrought Iron Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $24 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $68 |
| Labor Costs | $14-$17 |
Vinyl Fence
Vinyl fences or PVC fences consist of plastic material. Vinyl is vulnerable to cracking in cold weather and softening in hot climates.
| Vinyl Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $13 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $27 |
| Labor Costs | $6-$14 |
Composite Fence
Barbed wire fencing offers cost-effective security for animals and property. Composite fencing comprises recycled materials like wood, sawdust, and plastic.
| Composite Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $9 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $25 |
| Labor Costs | $13-$15 |
Barbed Wire Fence
Barbed wire fencing is a cost-effective option for adding security and containment of livestock. Installing a barbed wire is easy, making it ideal for multiple-acre properties.
| Barbed Wire Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $0.08 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $3 |
| Labor Costs | $0.9-$5 |
Steel Fence
Steel comes in various styles and types, including stainless, palisade, corrugated, and galvanized. Each type of steel has different uses, pricing, and styles. Palisades, for example, are durable, making them ideal for security fences.
| Steel Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $20 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $70 |
| Labor Costs | $5-$10 |
Metal Fence
Metal fences include chain-link, aluminum, and iron. Metal fences offer security and are suitable for pets and children. They’re ideal for those looking for a secure and affordable option. But, the materials are prone to rust.
| Metal Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $24 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $32 |
| Labor Costs | $9-$50 |
Pallet Fence
A pallet fence is a type of wooden fence made from pallets used for shipping and storing goods. Pallet fences are cost-effective, sustainable, and suitable for DIY projects due to repurposing.
| Pallet Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $11 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $13 |
| Labor Costs | $10-$20 |
Treated Wood Fence
Wood fencing is popular for privacy, security, and decorative boundary purposes. Wood fences differ in style, species, and size. They range from small pickets for border marking to large dog-eared ones for privacy. The project’s cost depends on the chosen wood type.
| Treated Wood Fence | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost Per Linear Foot | $5 |
| Maximum Cost Per Linear Foot | $15 |
| Labor Costs | $10-$20 |
Factors Affecting Fence Installation Costs
Labor
Labor costs depend on location and the complexity of the installation. Sites on slopes or obstacles increase labor costs due to labor-intensive workarounds.
The level of customization required for the project also influences labor costs. If you want a custom-built fence, you must hire skilled professionals. Also, labor costs are higher in urban areas due to higher living costs and lower in rural areas.
Terrain
Terrain influences the amount of materials and labor needed to complete a fencing project. The more challenging the terrain, the higher the costs you will incur.
Fence Height and Length
Professionals use a per-foot basis to calculate the cost of materials for a fence installation. As a result, a longer fence needs more materials and will be more expensive. Also, taller fences demand longer posts, and support structures, increasing material costs.
Accessories
Accessories include fence features and customizations like gates, decorative elements, and lighting. The cost of accessories depends on type and customization level. The type of fence material also influences the cost of accessories.
For example, accessories for a wood fence are cheaper than accessories for a wrought iron fence. Installing accessories on a wrought iron fence requires fabrication, which impacts the cost.
Fence Style
Fence style affects the installation cost, materials, and labor required. For example, a chain-link fence requires less material and labor to install. Wrought iron fences require custom fabrication and more time and skill.
Material
The fencing material has a significant impact on the total cost of installation. First, the cost of materials varies. Wood and chain-link are more affordable than vinyl, aluminum, and wrought iron.
Second, some materials are more labor-intensive. They need specialized installation techniques, which increases the project’s cost.
Here is a breakdown of how some fence materials influence the total cost of the project:
- Wood: Wood fences are popular due to their natural look and affordability. The cost of wood, however, varies depending on the type and the quality of the lumber. For example, cedar is a popular choice for wood fences due to its natural resistance to rot and insects. Cedar is, however, more expensive than redwood, pine, and other types of wood.
- Vinyl: Vinyl fences are a durable and low-maintenance option for fence installation. They’re a better long-term investment since they resist rot and insects. Vinyl tends to be more expensive than wood fences.
- Metal: Metal fences like aluminum and steel are more expensive than wood or vinyl. With proper maintenance, metal fences are quite durable.
- Chain link: Chain-link fences are the most affordable option for fence installation. But chain-link fences lack visual appeal. They’re suitable for security or keeping pets contained.
Other Cost Considerations
Landscaping
If there’s landscaping on the installation site, you must consider the clearing work. The work includes removing trees, bushes, or other plants that are in the way.
Permits
You may need local building permits to erect a fence. Local building rules limit the height of the fence and the materials available. A permit costs between $50 and $800. Professional contractors can advise on these costs and will include them in their quotes.
Old Fence Removal
Dismantling an old fence is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Depending on the condition of the fence, this will impact the project’s total cost.
How to Save on Fence Installation Costs
Source Multiple Estimates
Source multiple quotes and compare the cost breakdowns on each estimate.
Book a Contractor During the Off-Season
Fence installation prices vary depending on the time of year. Having the fence installed during the off-season is often cheaper.
Consider Salvaged Materials
Salvaged or recycled materials are cheaper than new ones. They include reclaimed wood or recycled plastic. You should, however, consider the amount of preparation or repairs required.
Pick the Right Fencing Material
The type of fence you want to install affects the project’s cost. Consider hiring a fence contractor to help you select a suitable material. They provide cost-effective options tailored to your specific requirements.
Do Some of the Work Yourself
Do light tasks yourself to help save on labor costs. You could clear the installation site or remove an old fence yourself.
Hire an Experienced Contractor
Contractors offer precise project cost estimates, which prevents hidden costs. They also help in identifying cost-saving opportunities. Experienced contractors adhere to an efficient installation procedure, unlike in DIY installations.
Experts are also helpful when navigating any necessary permits and regulations for your area. As a result, you’ll take less time to complete the project and incur less labor costs.
Limit Decorative Elements
Decorative elements such as ornate gates or custom designs need more materials. The extra materials increase the cost of the project. Limiting decorative elements reduces the materials needed and saves on costs.
Complex designs need more time and effort, increasing labor costs in projects. Choosing a simpler design simplifies the installation process and saves on labor costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ
What are the most cost-effective materials for a fence installation?
Chain-link fencing is an affordable and low-maintenance option for fence installation. Wood is also an attractive and cost-effective fencing material for many homeowners. In contrast, wood needs more maintenance than other materials.
Are there any maintenance costs associated with different fence materials?
Barbed wire, vinyl, and composite are low-maintenance, requiring occasional cleaning for appearance. Wrought iron and steel need barrier coatings to prevent rust and corrosion. Wood and pallet fences require regular treatment to prevent decay, warping, and insect infestation.
Do fence contractors offer free estimates for installation projects?
Contractors provide free estimates for customers to compare costs and scope. It’s crucial, however, to confirm if the contractor charges fees for time and expertise. Some contractors require a deposit or payment upfront.
How long does a fence last?
The lifespan of a fence depends on the type of material used. Durable materials like composite, metal, and barbed wire last over 20 years with proper maintenance. A pallet fence lasts up to five years, while treated wood lasts 15 to 20 years.