On average, fence replacement costs range between $1,667 and $4,075, with $2,839 national average. The cost to replace a fence depends on several factors, like materials, labor, height, style, location, etc.
Fences are an essential part of the landscape for their aesthetics and functionality. A well-built fence can provide improved security as it defines your property boundaries while dampening noise levels from family gatherings or backyard barbecues–or even keeping any unappealing sights out of view!
But, how much will it cost to restore a damaged fence? If you plan to replace a fence for protection, privacy, or other reasons, this guide is for you!
In this post, you will learn about fence replacement costs in 2022, the factors affecting the fence replacement cost, whether it is better to hire a professional such as Ace Fence Company Austin – Replacement & Installation or do the replacement yourself, the price by material, the benefits of fencing, and many more. So, let’s get started!
Fence Replacement Cost
Whether wood fences or chain link fences, fencing is an excellent way to corral kids and pets, boost curb appeal, enhance privacy, or deter unwanted visitors.
Homeowners spend $1,677 to $4,075 to install a new fence, with a $2,839 national average. In terms of cost per linear foot, a new fence installation ranges from $13 to $50.
Wood fencing installation costs are cheaper than metal fencing costs. However, most homeowners prefer installing a vinyl fence. This fence type only requires low maintenance.
Let’s Find Out How Much Your Project Will Cost
Essentially, the costs to replace a fence all come down to the material and the size. The longer a fence lasts, the more you will have to pay.
Quality fencing materials cost more than cheap wood, wire, or steel. So, take your time to check out the average price you will need for your fence replacement project.
Factors in Calculating Fence Replacement Cost
Regarding fence replacement, labor and materials make up 50% of the overall cost. You also need to think about the area size being fenced. So, ensure to measure the area initially.
Does the fenced site have a lot of debris? Are there plenty of roots or rocks in the soil? Then, you need to pay more to dig the holes necessary for the fenced posts properly.
Whether you are considering building a picket fence or a complete privacy fence in the front yard, here are the top factors to calculate the fence replacement cost:
Permits
A building permit usually costs between $400 and $800. If you are unsure whether or not local building costs require a permit for building a fence, you can consult a qualified local fence builder or check your local building codes. This helps you determine the possible restrictions about the material or height of the fence.
Labor
Labor rates range between $30 and $80 per hour. Since building a fence is time-consuming, labor often makes up 50% of the final price. The rates vary depending on the fencing materials used and how much work it takes for the fence post installation.
Removing Trees, Bushes, and Stumps
In some cases, trees, bushes, or stumps need to be removed, which comes with additional costs. A robust root system slows down the digging process for fence-post holes, increasing labor rates. If there is existing concrete, the soil is rocky, or bedrock at the post depth, expect the need for additional equipment to bore through it.
The average price for removing trees, bushes, and stumps are:
- $385-$1,070 per tree
- $75-$125 per bush
- $175-$516 per stamp
You can hire an expert to remove them, and they charge based on the location and size of the trees, bushes, and stumps.
Fence Height
Standard fences generally stand 6 feet tall. You can also install an 8-foot fence. Do not forget to check your HOA regulations and local building costs to determine the fence height limit allowed in your neighborhood.
Building a taller fence will cost you more, adding around 25%-35% more for the extra material. If you decide to install a 100-linear foot 6-foot-tall wooden fencing style with pressure-treated pine, expect the costs to range between $1,300 and $2,700. However, if you plan to build an 8-foot wooden fence, you will pay between $1,690 and $3,510, equivalent to approximately 30% more than the budget.
Gates
In most cases, fences include at least one gate that costs between $200 and $600. A standard fence gate is around 4 feet wide. A gate costs about 25% more than a fence panel made of similar materials like a chain link, aluminum, or wood.
A fence is usually not functional without a gate. The cost to include a fence gate depends on the size, style, and materials. If you plan to get a high-end driveway gate, you will need to pay up to $6,500. A walk-through wooden gate ranges between $150 to $250, and the labor costs are not yet included.
Sealing, Staining, and Painting
Do you want to make your wood fences look better and add a layer of protection to the material? Then, fence staining would help. This approach costs between $1 and $2.25 per square foot.
If you like your backyard fence painted, you will need to pay from $1.50 to $3 per square foot. For a DIY wood fence staining, you can purchase a gallon of paint for $15 up to $30.
It would be ideal to have a sealant to protect your wood fencing from environmental elements. Five gallons of exterior sealant prices usually range between $100 and $200. You can use the sealant on raw wood or apply it over the stain. Do not forget to reapply the sealant on the wood fencing every six months.
Location of the Fence
The costs of bamboo and vinyl fencing materials do not often vary by region; however, this does not apply to wood. Various lumber types come with varying price points depending on your location. This is especially true since some wood types are more common in particular areas than others.
Moreover, the fence installation cost in rural areas is usually more expensive since laborers and materials need to be transported farther away. Location obstruction comes with some added fees if you live in a hard-to-reach area. Parked vehicles, narrow spaces, or overgrown trees can impact the ease of access.
Size and Length
On average, a 200-foot fence costs around $3,200, or approximately $16 per foot. If you want a longer fence, prepare to pay more. However, unusual fence shapes like polygonal structures often cost more than square shapes. These fence types require more posts, hardware, and labor, increasing your budget for fence installation.
Fence Installation by Style
Will your property look better with the lattice design, or should you use electric fences? The explanation depends on your preference and budget. Here is the different fence styles cost per linear foot:
- Palisade Fence – $20 to $40
- Shadow Box – $19 to $40
- Lattice Fence – $18 to $38
- Dog-Eared Style – $19 to $36
- Fence Panels – $16 to $40
- Picket Fence – $15 to $32
- Post + Rails – $10 to $16
- Split Rails – $5 to $12
- Electric Fence – $5 to $10
Hiring a Professional vs. Doing It Yourself
DIY fence installation can be very time-consuming, but it saves you money. On the other hand, hiring a professional installation can save you plenty of time, but it can be costly.
You may need around $3,566 on materials and equipment and a few days to complete a DIY fence. Building your own wood privacy fence makes you more likely to spend less on materials. On the other hand, if you plan to build a vinyl fence, expect to pay more.
If you are an experienced home improvement DIY-er, the fence installation process can be a simple task. However, it still requires light construction and proper tools like post hole diggers, connectors, post concrete, and fasteners, which most homeowners don’t have.
Hiring a professional fence installer is better if you are not confident with your skills in removing and replacing the old fence. With this, prepare to pay around $4,900 for a professional installation and to paint a 150-linear-foot wood fence.
Doing the fence installation project yourself saves you almost $1,500. However, it needs a lot of effort and time on your part. So, ensure to decide which route works best for you.
Cost of Fence Replacement by Material
The materials used also affect the project costs to replace an existing fence. Check out the most common fence materials and their average prices below:
Wood
Wood is a traditional fencing material. Besides affordability, you can also enjoy a more natural look. Treated pine is the cheapest wood; that costs $1.50 per linear foot. The cost is around $17.50 per piece for redwood and other more exotic wood.
If you prefer cedar for its durability, your budget must be $7 to $15 per linear foot. You can stain or paint a wood privacy fence, but this comes with an additional cost. A wood fence does not have a long lifespan, and you should consider this factor for a project that costs between $1,000 and $4,000.
Vinyl
Vinyl is an excellent choice for low-maintenance materials since it will not fade or rot. A vinyl fencing style is available in privacy and picket style. Although this material costs more upfront, it becomes less expensive over time since it does not require staining or painting. It also lasts a long time.
On average, the vinyl privacy fence project costs start at $25 up to $35 per foot. As with vinyl privacy fencing, the cost ranges between $30 to $35.
Chain-Link
Chain-link is not only low-maintenance but also has a long lifespan and is easy to install, which fits the most budget. It can be made of aluminum, powder-coated steel, vinyl, or galvanized steel. It can be finished in different colors, including brown, green, and metallic brown.
This material is one of the cheapest options, depending on the style and chain of your chain-link fencing. It is often available in 4,5, and 6 heights and costs from $5 to $15 per foot.
Aluminum
Getting aluminum fencing creates a modern and sleek look for your home. Aluminum is a maintenance-free material and lasts a lifetime because of its durable properties. This material provides security and durability and can resist rusting.
Installing aluminum fencing costs between $30 and $40 per linear foot. Then, you will add an extra $5 to $15 per linear foot for the labor. If the aluminum is not yet powder coated, you must pay another $2 to $5 per square foot.
Steel
Steel does not only provide a modern look but also promotes durability and longevity. If you prefer building a steel fence, the typical range is between $30 to $50 per linear foot. A steel fence needs to be treated with rust inhibitors. That way, you can prevent rusting, which can impact the look and functionality of the fence.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron fences are what you are looking for if you want a classic look. This material is customizable, stylish, and durable. It is advisable to have a qualified fence installer handle the design and installation of a wrought iron fence because it is a specialized material.
A wrong-iron fence style usually costs $2,500, while the liner per foot costs between $30 and over $100. You must regularly apply rust-inhibiting spray on the fence.
Composite
Composite makes the fence easy to maintain and resist elements without extreme temperatures. It does not require sanding or painting and rarely warps or rots. With this material, expect to spend $20 to $40 per linear foot or $2,000 to $5,000.
Do I Need Fence Replacement?
If your existing fence is damaged or worn out, it may be time to replace it.
You might be undecided about whether to repair or replace your fence. The main factors determining which route you should take are longevity and cost. If repairing the fence is more expensive than replacing it, it is better to opt for a fence replacement.
Even if fence repairs are less costly, replacement is sometimes a better option. If your fence is close to the end of its expected lifespan, replacing it instead of repairs would be worth it.
Benefits of Fence Installation or Replacement
Are you a private person? If so, a fence is a must-have. And if you have kids and pets, it offers the necessary safety and security. A well-built fence helps solve the issue of having a loud neighbor.
You will also need a fence if you live close to a busy street or highway. Although it cannot wholly dampen the noises, it still makes a big difference. A fence also hides unsightly piles of junk from view and increases your property’s value.
Fencing Can Increase Your Home’s Value
Even if the fence is made of chain-link, a home with fencing is considered more protected and secure. Installing an attractive and durable fence helps boost your home’s curb appeal. You can choose from many designs, including wood fencing, metal fences, split rail fences, wrought iron fences, ranch fencing, aluminum fences, PVC fencing, etc.
You can try adding vines or plants to enhance the fence’s appearance and your home’s overall attractiveness. If you plan to sell your home in the future, a well-maintained fence helps sell it more quickly. Most real estate buyers prefer homes with fences due to their attractive look and security.
Fencing Provides Improved Security
If your house is installed with a sturdy fence that surrounds the backyard, you can deter strangers or intruders from entering your property more effectively. You can keep toys or lawn equipment in the backyard and have peace of mind knowing they will not be stolen.
Fence installation helps keep wild animals off your property, especially if built high.
Fencing Can Keep Unappealing Sights Out of View
Not all backyard views are appealing. A privacy fence helps hide eyesores and allows you to enjoy the outdoors at night, whether you have a chaotic neighboring yard or dilapidated patio structure.
If your purpose for building a fence is to keep eyesores out of view, chain-link fences are not the best options. Instead, opt for an entire paneled fence made of vinyl, aluminum, or wood.
FAQs
What is the cheapest fence to install?
A wood fence is the cheapest fence to install. A fence made of this material with pressure-treated pine usually costs $1.50 per linear foot. Wire fencing typically costs $2 per linear foot but is not quite suitable for residential applications, while a chain-link fence starts at $5 per linear foot.
What is the cost of a new fence in Texas?
Labor rates are often 50% of Texas’s total fence installation cost. On average, you can put up a new fence by spending $1,667 up to $4,075. The installation price depends on the size of your property and the premium materials. Wood and chain-link fences are the cheapest fence types, while metal fencing options are the costliest.
What would be the price to build a 6ft wooden fence?
A 6-feet tall wooden fence typically costs from $60 to $180, depending on the style of the fence and wood choice. You can buy this material in different styles, like a shadow box, fence, and solid board. Wood fencing provides more privacy than other fence types.
How do you estimate the labor cost for fencing?
The fencing material plays a critical role in calculating labor costs. You also need to evaluate how much work it takes to complete the installation of the fence posts when determining the labor rates.
On average, expect to pay $30 up to $80 per hour—most qualified fence installers complete 150- to 200-linear feet fence between 20 and 35 hours.
The labor costs also depend on your area and the time of the year. During the winter months, expect lower labor costs. If your location has been recently affected by a natural disaster, the fence installation costs can be higher since fence contractors must keep up with the homeowners’ demand.
How much would I pay to replace a wooden fence in Texas?
Treated pine is the cheapest wood; that costs $1.50 per linear foot. Redwood typically costs $17.50 per piece, while cedar fence installation costs are between $7 and $15 per linear foot. The average cost to replace wooden fencing is between $1,000 and $4,000.
How long does a wood fence last?
The untreated pine fence often lasts 5 to 12 years, while the treated one may last up to 20 years. If your wooden fencing is made of cedar, it can last 15 to 30 years. Wood fencing requires regular maintenance to increase its lifespan.
How much does 200 ft of chain-link fence cost?
If you plan to install a 200-feet chain-link fence, expect to spend $1,000 to $3,000. This affordable fencing option allows you to choose from different finishes and styles.
Which is cheaper: a wood fence or chain link?
Wood and chain-link fences are the cheapest fencing options. However, a wood fence is more affordable than a chain-link counterpart. For example, a wood fence made from pressure-treated pine usually costs $12 per linear foot. As with this fence type, the material costs $15 per liner foot.
How long does a chain-link fence last?
In many cases, a chain link fence can last 20 years or more, depending on the weave and coating. This type of fence is low-maintenance and matches most budgets. You can also choose from different styles and finish.
What kind of fence lasts the longest?
The fence’s lifespan depends on the material used. The fence that lasts the longest is made of cedar that may last up to 30 years with regular maintenance. The treated pine usually lasts 20 years, while the untreated pine may only last 5 to 12 years.
A galvanized chain-link fence typically lasts 20 years or more. A fence made of vinyl can resist weathering without extreme cold or heat and last 20 years or more.
Do vinyl fences break easily?
No. Many homeowners prefer vinyl fences because they do not break easily. They do not fade or rot. They do not also require sanding or painting. So, they can save you money in the long run.