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As any homeowner knows, a lot of costs come with owning a home. One of those costs is fencing.
Fencing can be a necessary evil if you have pets or small children or want privacy from your neighbors. Like anything else, though, there are many different fencing options, and the installation cost can vary widely.
Fence installation costs can vary depending on several factors, which include the type of fence, the size of your property, and the complexity of the installation. However, there are some general price ranges you can expect to pay for fence installation.
In the case of a bare fence, for example, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for a bare fence. On the other hand, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 with complex fences.
Of course, these prices can vary depending on the specific fence you choose and the company you hire, but they should give you a general idea of the cost of fence installation.
What Factors Affect the Average Cost of Fence Installation?
The average cost of fence installation depends on a few factors. See More Info. The most crucial factor is the type of fence you choose.
Wood fences are the most common type of fence and can range in price from $5-$30 per linear foot.
Vinyl fences are the second most popular type of fence, costing anywhere from $10-$40 per linear foot.
The third type of fence, aluminum, is the least popular but can still be a good option for some people. It typically costs $15-$50 per linear foot.
Types of Fences
The cost of installing a fence varies depending on your type of fence.
The most common fences are wood, vinyl, and chain links. Wood fences are the most affordable option but require more maintenance than vinyl or chain link fences. Vinyl fences are more expensive than wood but require less maintenance. Chain link fences are the most expensive option but most durable and require the least maintenance.
Size of Fence
When choosing a fence for your home, many factors must be considered. One of the most important factors is the cost of installation. The size of the fence is another important factor to consider. The larger the fence, the more it will cost to install.
Material Used Making the Fence
The average installation cost for a fence can be pretty expensive. Overall, the type of material used to make the fence will often dictate the overall installation cost.
Installing a chain link fence, for example, will be less expensive than installing a wood fence. However, the type of fence you choose should be based on your needs and preferences.
DIY vs. Professional Fence Installation
When installing a fence, there are two main options: do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional. Each option has pros and cons, and the installation cost is one of the most significant considerations. Which is the better option for you?
DIY fence installation can be a great way to save money. If you’re handy and have all the necessary tools, you can install a fence relatively cheaply. However, DIY installation can also be time-consuming and difficult, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
Professional fence installation is the other main option. Hiring a professional will cost more than doing it yourself, but it will also be less time-consuming and stress-free. Plus, a professional will have the experience and expertise to ensure your fence is installed correctly.
Fence Maintenance Needs
Good fences make good neighbors, as the old saying goes. What does it take to be a good fence neighbor? Proper fence maintenance is critical.
Your fence is an integral part of your home, and keeping it in good condition is essential. Not only will it improve your curb appeal, but it will also keep your property safe and secure.
Here are a few tips for proper fence maintenance:
Inspect your fence regularly for damage and make repairs as needed.
Remove any debris or vegetation that may be growing against the fence.
Apply fresh paint or stain every few years to keep your fence looking its best.
By following these simple tips, you can be a good neighbor and keep your fence in tip-top shape.
Extras You Must Consider
What we just mentioned are the basics surrounding fence installations. However, a few other things affect the average fence installation costs. If you want to understand every factor that plays a role in your quote, keep reading.
Location
Your fence installation quote can vary depending on where you live. Rural areas, for example, tend to get higher costs since the process likely involves transporting materials from far away.
In some regions, materials may cost more than in other places. Finally, you must consider the physical space where the property is on. You may have to pay more if your property has overgrown trees or any other object that makes access more difficult.
Labor
We quickly mentioned that hiring a professional fence installer will cost more than taking care of the project yourself, but why?
Fencing any property involves a lot of time and dedication. Your labor costs will vary depending on the materials used, the size of your property, its location, etc.
Another important factor is that not all companies charge the same service prices. While we don’t recommend the cheapest option, we encourage you to compare different quotes to find the best solution based on your budget.
Type of Property
Usually, we have three “types” of properties to install a fence on residential, commercial, and land. When you install a fence in your residential property, for example, it may be to cover your backyard and keep it private. However, when you install fences on land, it may be to keep animals away (or unwanted guests in the case of commercial properties).
It’s important to address your property type before installing the fence, as this will help you develop the right solution. Not all properties will benefit from the same type of fence, so this is crucial to keep in mind.
Permits
You must consider your local building codes before starting any project. Some areas may charge you for a permit, ranging from $400 to $800.
These factors can greatly affect your total fence costs, so talk to a professional to determine if you need a permit to install one in your area. If you do, ask them if they will take care of it or if you should do it.
Landscaping
Some terrains may need special care before installing a fence on them. Properties with slopes, for example, may need a landscaping job before the fencing.
If you don’t care for any landscaping needs, you risk not installing your fence correctly, leading to poor alignment, loose posts, and more. Landscaping expenses can add up to your quote, but they ensure that you don’t have any issues with your fence in the future.
Old Fence Removal
What if you already have a fence? You will likely have to spend money to remove it before installing the new one. Even though you could technically take care of this process yourself, you risk damaging the land or yourself.
In any case, it’s best to leave the job to a professional.
On that same note, if trees obstruct the path, you may have to pay more to get a professional to remove them safely.
Utilities
It’s essential to check for underground electrical lines, power, or gas before digging fence post holes. Otherwise, the homeowner or professional risks hitting these utilities and causing problems in the area.
If you live somewhere with many underground utilities, the professional may have to work around them to install your fence. This can increase the total cost of the project.
Number of Fence Posts/Gates
You may need to install a particular set of posts to protect your property. The bigger it is, the more money you may spend on the process. You may have to pay more for the project if you plan to install more than one gate.
An Overview of Most Popular Fence Types and Materials
As you may have noticed, many factors can actively affect your project cost. However, one of the most important ones is the type of fence/material you’re installing. In any case, you can expect to pay different amounts per linear foot.
Let’s go over some of the most common fences you can install and their cost per linear foot.
Aluminum
Aluminum is best for those looking for a low-maintenance fence. Typically, a fence made of this material will be durable and rust-resistant. It’s also reasonably priced.
You can expect to pay from $15 to $50 per linear foot.
Chain Link
Chain-link fences are among the most popular options on the market. As with aluminum, chain link is also low-maintenance and durable.
The best thing about chain-link materials is that they are easy to install, so you may not spend too much on labor. Unfortunately, this material isn’t as visually appealing as others.
You can expect to pay from $15 to $30 per linear foot.
Barbed Wire
The barbed wire fence is standard in properties that need to keep livestock contained. It’s important to note that this material is ancient and only allowed in rural areas. The benefit of this material is that it’s easy to install and maintain.
You can expect to pay $1 to $6 per linear foot. This is, by far, the most affordable type of fence you can get today.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron fences are perfect if you’re looking for a stylish option. Not only is it durable, but it’s also customizable. You may spend more on labor costs, but you’ll have a beautiful result that can significantly increase your home’s value. Wrought iron, like other types of metal fences, should be dealt with by professionals.
It’s important to note that you must apply a rust-inhibiting spray from time to time to have a well-maintained fence. Besides that, taking care of it won’t be much of a problem.
You can expect to pay $30 to $55 per linear foot for your wrought iron fence.
Composite
Composite is both resistant and affordable, usually made from recycled materials. They can be plastic or wood, although sometimes you can expect sawdust too.
You can expect to pay $11 to $45 per linear foot.
Electric
Also known as “invisible fencing,” it keeps livestock in a particular place. These fences produce electric shocks meant to keep these animals from touching them.
Due to their dangerous nature, electric fences are only allowed in rural areas.
You can expect to pay from $2.40 to $3.90 per linear foot.
Privacy
The privacy fence is popular in many homes with backyards. Here, you can choose from vinyl, metal, or wood. Even though these fences are more expensive than other options, they give you and your family the privacy you deserve.
You can expect to pay about $35 per linear foot.
Steel
The beauty of the steel fence is that you can get it in a wide variety of styles. It’s also simple to install and maintain. Unfortunately, it’s not as durable as other materials on the list.
You can expect to pay $17 to $90 per linear foot.
Vinyl
The vinyl fence is known for how resistant it is and how easy it is to maintain. In most cases, you won’t need to paint or sand your vinyl fence to make it look good.
You can expect to pay $10 to $40 per linear foot.
Split Rail
The split-rail fence is common in rural areas, and it’s often compared to barbed wire. It’s also designed to keep animals from getting away. Here, the expert splits timber logs and inserts them into wooden posts.
You can expect to pay from $15 to $25 per linear foot.
Wood
Wood is one of the more “traditional options” on the list. It has a natural look that’s appealing to most people.
You can consider many “styles” for your wooden fence, so you’re free to get as creative as you want. However, remember that a wood fence doesn’t usually have a long lifespan. It could be a great option if you’re willing to invest in the costs of keeping these fences in shape.
You can expect to pay from $5 to $30 per linear foot.
What Materials Do We Work with?
Our team offers service with the following fence types:
- Chain Link
- Wood
- Bull Panel
- Ornamental Iron
Do You Truly Need to Install a Fence?
One of the first things you must consider for your project is what you want and need. You may want to install a fence for plenty of reasons, and knowing that can help you choose the suitable materials and services.
Talking to professional fence contractors will help you better understand what to expect after installing one of these options at your property.
Benefits You’ll Get from Installing a Fence
There are plenty of advantages you can get from installing a fence. In most cases, if you make the right call, you could eventually get a decent return on investment.
Home Value: Most homes with a fence are considered safer and more private. Depending on the type of fence you get, you could also improve the property’s appeal. Some people also add greenery around the fence to make it look better. In any case, installing a fence on your property can help you increase its overall value.
Security: Properties with fences are more likely to deter any stranger from entering. Depending on how high the fence is, you can also use it to keep animals away from your home.
Privacy: Having nosy neighbors is a common problem among homeowners. Thankfully, installing a fence can be the perfect solution. Fences can create a quieter and more secure environment for you and your family without necessarily affecting your neighbor in any way. You could also use a fence to establish your property’s boundaries.
Blocking Unpleasant Views: Sometimes, you may not have the best view at home. If there are any eyesores around (like a neighbor’s poorly maintained backyard), you can solve that by installing a full-paneled fence.
How Do You Know Which Type of Fence You Can Install?
You must talk to a professional to evaluate which fence options are more viable for your needs. Some properties won’t benefit from sure fences (like installing a chain-link fence for privacy reasons).
What Are the Risks of Installing Fences Yourself?
DIY projects aren’t usually recommended for a variety of reasons. Depending on the case, you would be exposing yourself and your family to:
- Extra repair/installation expenses if the project goes wrong
- Physical injuries
- Poor installation jobs
- Weak fence/poor fence alignment
How to Choose the Right Fence Installers and Keep Costs Down
It would be best to keep plenty of things in mind before hiring a fence installer or managing your budget. Some of these include:
- Compare quotes.
- Choose someone with experience.
- Choose someone who can also provide maintenance.
- Negotiate with your neighbors if you’re sharing the fence installation cost.
- Take care of the landscaping yourself before the installers get to your property.
FAQs
It would be best to consider all the factors influencing the projectโs price, such as the materials, labor, permits, etc. The best thing you can do to calculate these costs fast is to talk to a professional.
It depends on the material you get and other factors. You can expect to pay from $500 to $2,000 for a basic fence and from $1,000 to $5,000 for complex ones.
Depending on different factors, it can range from $6,000 to $18,000.
You could pay from $500 to $4,500 for your project. Remember that getting a professional quote is the best way to determine how much youโll pay.
