Before Installing a Home Fence: Calculate Material, Labour and Maintenance Costs
When you install a fence on your property, you do not have to worry about kids playing in the backyard or pets running around. Installing a fence will allow you to enjoy peaceful evenings outside. A good fence offers privacy and security.
When you want to install a new fence, the biggest question is: how much will it cost? There are several factors which influence the cost of a fence. Use a fence budget calculator to determine the exact quantity of materials you need.
Factors affecting the fencing cost
The most important factor affecting the fence installation cost is the size of your yard. A sloped yard will require extra materials and labour compared to a flat yard. If you want to remove the existing fence, then it will add to the cost. The more complex your property layout, the more materials and time your project will need.
The time of year you choose to install a fence can affect the cost. Winter installations cost less as it’s a slower season. Summer provides perfect weather, which means more demand and higher prices. Keep this in mind before selecting an installation date.
The fencing materials you choose can impact the costs. A wooden fence gives a classic look but requires regular maintenance; a vinyl fence costs more upfront but lasts longer with minimal upkeep; a chain link fence provides affordability and security without blocking your view, and an aluminium fence provides elegance and durability.
While installing a fence, you need to dig post holes, set posts, and build the fence piece by piece. A taller fence will need deeper posts and more stabilisation, which increases the cost. If you have rocky soil, then it will require more effort and time to dig post holes. The complexity of the fence style can impact the installation time. A basic chain link fence requires less time than one made of wood.
Most areas need permits for fence installation, which are available for a fee. Your area may have rules regarding fence height, style and even colour. If you break the rules, then you may have to pay a fine. Before installing a fence, check what the local rules say. The good news is that professional contractors know the regulations and can handle the paperwork for you.
Before installing the fence, the yard has to be prepared. The bushes have to be cleared, tree stumps have to be removed, and the ground has to be levelled. If the old fence has to be removed, then it is considered a part of site preparation. Next, utility marking has to be done to avoid hitting underground pipes and wires. Some of the fences require extra drainage work to protect the new fence from water damage.
You can make your fence extra special by adding decorative post caps and lighting fixtures. But these add-ons will increase the materials and labour costs. A bigger gate for vehicles will cost more than standard walk-through gates. Specific fence styles with lattice tops or custom designs will cost more.