How much does a wood fence installation cost?
The national average cost of a wood fence installation is $800. The cost can range between $500 and $6,000, depending on the location of your home, what type you want to get, the size of your lot and other factors.
Cost to Install a Wood Fence:
| National Average Cost | $800 |
| Low-End Cost | $500 |
| High-End Cost | $6,000 |
Whether you want a picket fence or a privacy fence, ask wood fence installation companies near you for quotes and estimates.
What’s in this wood fence cost guide?
- How much does it cost to put up a wooden fence?
- How do I estimate the cost of wood fencing?
- Factors that impact wood fencing costs
- What are the different types of wood fences?
- Wood fence installation process
- Reasons you should get a wood fence
- How to hire a fence contractor or company
- Find a fence installer near you
- FAQs
How much does it cost to put up a wooden fence?
Generally, it costs approximately between $15 and $45 per linear foot to install a wooden fence. This price fluctuates depending on the type of wood and style you choose.
A cedar board-on-board fence, for example, tends to be more expensive than a black locust or composite fence. Installing a wood fence is a great option for the environment, and it can also be more budget-friendly and cost-efficient than other materials. Your builder should be able to talk you through the process of choosing the right fencing material to fit your budget, aesthetic and practical needs.
How do I estimate the cost of wood fencing?
There are several factors that impact the cost of your fence. The best way for a homeowner to estimate the cost is by talking to a contractor.
Here are a few steps you can take to get the most accurate possible estimate:
- Determine where your property line lies. It’s important to make sure your fencing stays within your property lines.
- Measure along your yard or your property line. Determine how many feet of fencing you need. Keep in mind that contractors typically charge by linear foot.
- Determine the height of your fence. The height will also affect the price.
- Decide what type of material you want to use. Do you want to use cedar, cypress, pine or composite wood? These are choices that will affect the final price of your project.
Factors that impact wood fencing costs
The type of material you choose will impact your overall costs. Some other factors that may impact the final cost include the soil type, the drainage system and any challenging landscape that has to be worked around.
Contractors will also typically charge more for each gate installation, as wood fence gates have a set price and can be more time and labor-intensive to build. They will also consider the labor costs associated with build your fence.
Some contractors may offer discounts for larger jobs. Keep in mind that travel time may also impact the final price, and some contractors may charge a minimum fee for small or large jobs.
And, of course, the style you choose may determine how much you'll pay. You'll want to explore all of your options -- picket fences, vinyl fencing, etc. -- before you decide to build a wood fence.
What are the different types of wood fences?
Wood fencing comes in many different styles and materials. Some of the most popular styles include picket fences, which has been a symbol in the suburban middle-class. It’s important to do your research to learn which type of wood will be best for your location. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular wood types and styles.
Fence styles comparison chart:
| Style | Pros | Cons | Affordability |
| Horizontal | Sleek, modern look; great for expansive, beautiful landscapes | Can have issues with stability if it is not properly installed; may make you home appear shorter | Price depends on the type of wood material you choose |
| Vertical | Vertical spaced posts can provide stable support and flexibility | More traditional aesthetic may not work for a modern home | Price depends on the type of wood material you choose |
| Shadowbox and board-on-board | Open design looks great on both sides; makes a good privacy fence; can resist wind | Requires more skill and money to install | Typically more costly than simpler styles because you need more boards and finishing supplies |
| Lattice | Classic style; versatile style and uses; customizable; offers semi-privacy | Is not very durable; lacks privacy of other styles; requires more maintenance | Affordable compared to many other fencing options |
| Picket fence | Popular, symbolic Americana style; easy to customize; semi-private | Lacks privacy of other styles | Relatively inexpensive option |
| Post and rail | Works well with ranch-style houses and landscape themes; sturdy when installed properly | Lack of privacy; will not keep out small/medium-sized animals; will not keep out trash or debris | Price depends on the wood material you choose |
| Louver wood | Modern, contemporary, high-end look; allows privacy and airflow; can be vertical or horizontal | May be susceptible to warping and structural damage | May be more expensive, depending on the type of wood you choose |
Wood fence cost breakdown:
| Material | Pros | Cons | Affordability |
| Cedar | Resists insect damage, moisture and rot; can last about 15–25 years, depending on whether it’s treated | May turn a shade of gray if untreated | May come with a 10-year warranty; certain types of cedar may be more expensive than other wood types |
| Western Red Cedar | Durable; low environmental impact; versatile; resists warping and rotting | May be slightly difficult to cut | Generally more expensive than other types of wood |
| Cypress | Insect-resistant; easy to paint; doesn’t scratch as easily as cedar | May have sour odor when being worked on; some people report mild allergic reactions | May be less expensive than cedar, but it depends on where you live |
| Pine | Durable; pressure-treated pine can resist rotting; can last up to 30 years if treated | May last as little as three years if untreated; may scratch or dent easily | Fairly affordable compared to types such as redwood and cedar |
| Redwood | High-quality; will last up to 30 years if treated; resistant to insects and rot; will retain finishes; easy to work with | Some people report mild allergic reactions to the wood | More expensive than other types of wood |
| Spruce | Easy to work with and paint; cost-effective | May rot, warp and swell; not as durable | Tends to be a very economic option |
| Composite | Low maintenance; highly durable; doesn’t rot easily | May not be easy to customize; prone to scratching and fading | Can be pricey |
| White Oak | Long-lasting; rot-resistant; has a life expectancy of 10-20, depending on how it’s treated | Can split easily | Economical option |
| Black Locust | Does not need to be treated; will last 20-25 years untreated; weatherproof | May be difficult to cut | Pricing may depend on where you live |
| Bamboo | Durable; resistant to heat, snow, UV rays and rain; sustainable option | May be hard to find due to limited availability; may not be sturdy enough for high winds | Can be pricey |
Wood fence installation process
A fencing contractor will typically start by giving you a quote or free estimates. Many contractors prefer to set a time to come out and assess your yard, getting exact measurements so they can give you an estimate, while others may be able to make an assessment online or over the phone.
Next, they will set up a time to come out for project installation. Contractors typically book between four and eight weeks out, though some can start as soon as two to three weeks after the initial quote.
Reasons to get wood fence
If you’re stuck on whether you should get a wood fence -- or another type, such as a vinyl fence or a chain-link fence -- consider these reasons:
More privacy. Do you feel like your neighbors can see right into your house or backyard? Adding a wood privacy fence -- or any type of privacy fence -- is a great, natural way to enclose your property and give your family that extra bit of seclusion. Just make sure to inform your neighborhood association before you begin your project.
Extra safety and freedom to move around. Do you have pets or little ones? Installing a fence is a great way to keep them safe and secure while they’re outside.
Fencing in a garden or livestock. Fencing is a great — and in many cases, necessary — way to keep unwanted pests out of a garden.
Curb appeal. Whether you choose a white picket fence or sleek wrought iron posts, a fence is a great way to boost your home or cottage's exterior look.
Will adding a fence increase my home’s value?
There is no hard data to prove that adding a new fence to your home increases its value. However, general home improvements are a good idea to increase your home’s value before you sell. And improvements to exteriors can add to your home’s curb appeal.
If you're a homeowner, reach out to a real estate professional in your area for guidance on what types of improvement should be made to your home if you’re thinking about selling your home.
How to hire a fence contractor or company
Start by searching and comparing fence companies online, paying close attention to the online reviews. For example, you’ll want to figure out which pros are rated highly and why. Did they finish the installation quickly? Did they offer a fair price? Was their quality of work exceptionally good?
If possible, view photos of the contractor's past work. Usually, you can find photos in the reviews section but if not, ask the companies if they can send you photos.
After you’ve identified a few professionals that seem right for the job, start gathering quotes. Be sure to give the pros as many details about your project as possible so you can receive accurate estimates.
Before you hire a professional, ask them what kind of licenses, credentials and insurance they carry. Some states, such as California, require that fencing contractors hold a license. Check your official state or city government website to see what the laws are in your area.
Consider making a list of questions specific to your project to ask the professional before you start the job. These might include what kinds of fencing materials they use and how long they estimate it will take to finish the project. Asking the right questions virtually ensures that you make the right hiring decision.
Find a fence installer near you
Installing wood fencing can be a great investment for your home and family. A beautiful picket fence creates a great first impression, while a privacy fence adds security to your home.
If you’re ready to hire a wood fence installation pro, start looking for a fencing professional near you today.
Wooden fence installation FAQs
Here are the answers to some common questions you might have about fence installation.
Can I install a wood fence myself?
It is possible to do-it-yourself when it comes to installing a fence, but you may run into some unexpected problems with your yard. For example, many people are unfamiliar with the location of the cable wires that run through their yard. The soil may also be difficult to put fencing into. And, you should be familiar with the tools and equipment you might need.
Do I need a permit to build a wood fence?
You may need a permit depending on where you live as well as the height, location and type of materials you are using to build your fence. This is especially true if you live in a city. For example, New York City requires a building permit for any fence that is greater than 6 feet in height.
It’s best to check on your official city website to learn about the requirements in your area.
Do I need to notify my neighbor if I want to build a fence?
Like with permits, this rule varies from location to location. In some neighborhoods, it’s an informal rule to tell your neighbors at least 30 days before you install a fence. However, in some places — such as California — this is required.
You should also be aware of where your property line lies. For example, in Los Angeles, both property owners must give consent before one builds a fence on the property line.
What are the other types of fencing I can install?
You can install a chain link fence, wrought iron fence, vinyl fence, stockade panel fence, metal fence, aluminum fence and many other types.
When choosing the material, pay attention to the cost per linear foot. Here are some cost estimates of fencing material:
| Cedar | $12-$16 per linear foot |
| Pressure-treated wood | $8-$10 per linear foot |
| Redwood | $24-$30 per linear foot |
| Composite | $20-$45 per linear foot |
| Vinyl | $19–$35 per linear foot |
| Steel | $15-$30 per linear foot |
| Aluminum | $20-$40 per linear foot |
| Chain link | $8-$18 per linear foot |
Source: Hunker
What is the cheapest fence to install?
The cheapest type to install is hard to identify -- it depends on the materials you use, the height and the cost of labor. But, generally speaking, barbed wire, chain link, wrought iron and certain types of wood are the cheapest types to install based on the cost of materials.
