Fence Installation
A new fence adds privacy, security, and defined property boundaries to your home. Whether you want a classic wood privacy fence, a low-maintenance vinyl option, or a decorative aluminum design, professional installation ensures your fence is built to last.
Choosing the Right Fence Material
The best fence material depends on your primary goal (privacy, security, decoration, or pet containment), budget, and maintenance preferences:
- Wood (cedar or pressure-treated): The most popular for privacy fences. Natural appearance, customizable height and style. Costs $15-$35 per linear foot installed. Requires staining every 2-5 years.
- Vinyl: Maintenance-free with a clean, uniform look. Will not rot, warp, or require painting. Costs $20-$40 per linear foot installed. Limited color options.
- Chain link: Most affordable and durable option for pet containment and property marking. Costs $10-$25 per linear foot installed. Can be enhanced with privacy slats.
- Aluminum: Elegant and rust-free. Ideal for decorative front yard fencing or pool enclosures. Costs $25-$55 per linear foot installed.
- Wrought iron: Maximum security and aesthetics. Costs $30-$75 per linear foot installed. Requires periodic rust treatment.
What Fence Installation Costs
Total fence installation costs depend on material, linear footage, height, terrain, and gate additions. For an average residential fence (150-200 linear feet):
- Wood privacy fence: $2,250-$7,000
- Vinyl fence: $3,000-$8,000
- Chain link fence: $1,500-$5,000
- Aluminum fence: $3,750-$11,000
Gates add $200-$1,500 each depending on size and material. Sloped or rocky terrain increases costs by $3-$10 per linear foot. Many municipalities require permits for fences over 4-6 feet, which cost $50-$200. Check HOA rules before choosing material and height.
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Get Free Fencing QuotesHow to Hire a Fence Contractor
A quality fence installation starts with proper post setting. Posts should be buried at least one-third of their total length in concrete footings. Shortcuts on post depth and concrete are the most common cause of leaning and failing fences. When hiring:
- Get a property survey: Know your exact property lines before building to avoid disputes with neighbors
- Check local codes: Height restrictions, setback requirements, and HOA rules vary. The contractor should be familiar with local regulations
- Ask about post depth and concrete: Posts should be set 24-36 inches deep with concrete footings. Avoid contractors who skip concrete
- Verify cleanup is included: The quote should include removal of old fencing (if applicable), post hole digging, and site cleanup
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard 150-200 linear foot residential fence takes 2-4 days to install. Complex terrain, custom designs, or brick/stone columns may extend the timeline to a week or more.
Most municipalities require permits for fences over 4-6 feet tall and for fences in front yards. Check with your local building department. Permit costs are typically $50-$200.
The fence owner is typically the person whose property the fence is on. If the fence sits exactly on the property line, ownership may be shared. Always get a property survey before building and discuss plans with neighbors.
Wrought iron and aluminum fences last 50+ years. Vinyl lasts 20-30 years with no maintenance. Wood fences last 15-20 years with regular staining. Chain link lasts 20+ years.