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Wood Fence Installation Cost

$3,600Typical Cost
Homeowners in the US usually spend between $2,450 and $4,550 on wood fence installation.
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What others are spending on wood fence installation:
Typical Cost$3,600
Typical Range$2,450–$4,550
Low End$1,400
High End$5,600

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Cost to Install a Wood Fence

How much does it cost to install a wood fence?

It costs an average of $3,600 to install 155 linear feet of wood fencing, including materials and labor. Most projects typically range in price from about $2,450 to $4,550, although high-end projects can cost upward of $5,600. To get a rough estimate, consider that wood fence installation cost per foot is usually about $16 to $30, including labor and materials. The total cost of your project will depend on the amount of fencing you need, as well as the type of fence and species of wood you choose.

Table of Contents:
  • How much does it cost to install a wood fence?
  • How much do different fence styles cost?
  • How much do different species of wood cost?
  • How much does labor cost to install a fence?
  • What other factors can affect wood fence cost?

If you want your home to have a classic, timeless look, installing a wood fence can be the perfect home improvement project. Whether painted white or with a natural stain, wood fences look beautiful and will add instant curb appeal to your home. Aside from their aesthetics, wood fences can also be fairly affordable when compared with other fencing materials. They range in price depending on the wood species, so you’ll be able to find something no matter your budget. And as a natural, biodegradable material, wood is also an environmentally friendly choice.


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To ensure that installation goes smoothly, it’s a good idea to contact multiple fencing professionals. That way you’ll get a few different quotes and find the right person for your project. You’ll also need to get a building permit from your local city or county government before building, and a fence professional will be able to walk you through the process. In order to get an accurate cost estimate for your project, you’ll need to measure your property line to determine how many linear feet of fencing you’ll need. For accuracy’s sake, it’s smart to hire a land surveyor who can take a second measurement for you. Finally, to avoid hitting any utility lines when you start digging, it’s important to call 811, which exists in every state. The operator will work with your local utility provider to ensure that the area is safe to dig in.

Ready to get started? Contact wood fence installers today

How much do different fence styles cost?

The total cost of your installation project will depend largely on the fence type you choose. Depending on your needs, you may opt for a classic picket fence or you may want something that offers a bit more privacy. Different types of fences come with different price tags that you may want to weigh when deciding on one.

Fence Type Costs per Linear Foot:
  • Split Rail Fence: $9 to $11
  • Picket Fence: $12 to $22
  • Privacy Fence: $25 to $35
Split Rail Fences

Wooden split rail fences, also known as ranch-style, are some of the most affordable fencing types, and typically cost about $9 to $11 per linear foot, including materials and labor. This style is often seen on ranches but is becoming more common, with its wide openings between horizontal slats that typically stand about four feet tall. They’re ideal for clearly distinguishing a space without interrupting the natural flow of the landscape. They’re not great, however, for enclosing small animals or children in your yard.

Another style that’s generally similar in price range is the shadowbox fence. It stands about six feet tall and looks the same on both sides, which is great if your neighbor’s house sits close to yours. It has openings between the vertical wooden slats but still provides enough of a barrier to keep children or pets in the yard. It often features latticework on the top portion.

Picket Fences

Wooden picket fences are a midrange option and usually cost about $12 to $22 per linear foot, including materials and labor. They’re typically four feet tall and have lots of space between the wooden slats. A wooden picket fence would look beautiful in a front yard or backyard and likely wouldn’t interrupt the look of your neighbors’ properties. If you want more privacy or a barrier to keep children or pets safe, however, you might be better off with a taller fence.

Privacy Fences

Privacy fences are the most expensive type, typically costing about $25 to $35 per linear foot, including materials and labor. They’re usually about six feet tall and don’t have any openings between slats to offer maximum privacy. Whether you want to fully enclose your yard so that you can let a dog out to play, or you live in a dense urban area, a wood privacy fence can be a good option to create a secluded space. Keep in mind that privacy fencing will significantly affect the look of your neighbors’ yards, so it’s a good idea to let them know about your plans beforehand.

How much do different species of wood cost?

Wood fence installation cost per foot also depends on the materials you choose. Different types of wood have different properties, and some are better at holding up against the elements than others. When choosing a species of wood, you should think about how much maintenance you’re willing to do and the level of material cost you’re comfortable with.

Redwood and tropical hardwoods are some of the most expensive options. Redwood does require more treatment to be water-resistant, but it’s prized for its beautiful stain. Tropical hardwoods are strong and durable, so they won’t require as much maintenance, which carries a lot of value for homeowners. Western red cedar is a good midrange option for its resistance to mold and insects. White oak and black locust are other moderately priced options, while pine is one of the most affordable woods.


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How much does labor cost to install a fence?

While fence installation companies have different rates across the country, typically contractors charge an average of $12 per linear foot of fence. Most fence installation projects fall somewhere between 100 and 300 square feet. That means that labor costs alone typically cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,600, but of course they can be more or less depending on the specifics of your project.

What other factors can affect wood fence cost?

In addition to the type of wood and fence style that you choose, there are several other factors that can affect the cost of your project. Embellishments like a gate, post caps or latticework can add to the overall effect of your new fencing, but they also come at a price. You’ll need to factor in the extra labor costs for adding on these features. If you need fencing removed, this will also increase the cost of your project.

Gates

While not always necessary, a gate can truly finish the look of your wooden fencing and create a more formal entrance to your home. Gates can range in cost from about $100 to $250, including installation, although they can cost much more if they are bigger or more complex. While you can stick with the same material for your gate, wrought iron can also look great paired with wood.

Post Caps and Lattice

Post caps can add that extra touch to your wood fence, but come at an additional cost. Some post caps have lights built in for safety and/or a decorative touch. You may also have the choice of buying fence panels with latticework at an additional cost. Often the lattice may simply be on the top of the panel, but this can bring a traditional decorative feel to your yard.

Removal of Old Fencing

If you need to have your contractor remove old fence materials, this will also increase the total cost of the project. Contractors typically charge about $4 per linear foot for fence removal. For 155 feet of fencing, this would cost around $620.

Maintenance

Wood fences require a bit more maintenance than other types of fencing. To help your fence hold up against rain and snow, it’s a good idea to apply a sealant each year. This might be something you can do on your own, which means you just pay the price of the sealant itself. If you want to save your time, and your back, hire a professional to get the job done quickly.

More: How to Install a Wood Fence

Note: Costs are estimated at the U.S. national level. Variations depend on factors such as the quality of materials, type of products installed and labor costs. The typical range is assumed to be between the 20th and 80th percentiles. The high-end and low-end costs are the maximum and minimum, respectively. Costs assume that the homeowner manages the project and hires subcontractors as needed. They include a subcontractor markup of 10% for materials and labor. Costs can be higher if a general contractor is managing the project. All numbers are rounded.

Source: 2019 Houzz Remodel Costs Database

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