=====[srform] Unless you're a total DIY whiz with a hefty amount of time on your hands, building a fence should be left to the professionals...
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Unless you're a total DIY whiz with a hefty amount of time on your hands, building a fence should be left to the professionals. The best way to make sure you don't fall victim to sky-high prices and hidden charges is by conducting thorough research in advance. When you have a plan, it's much easier to predict and manage the costs. Read on to find out everything you need to know about how to build a fence on a budget.
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Building A Fence
A stunning fence can turn your backyard into the vision of perfection you've always dreamed of. Plus, if you're thinking about selling any time soon, it can add serious curb appeal to your property and even hike up the overall value. Fences come in all shapes and sizes, with the most popular materials being metal and wood. However, bamboo, vinyl, PVC, recycled materials, and even a living fence are all affordable, sustainable options.
Cost To Build A Fence
The cost of building a fence varies drastically, depending on a range of factors. You can build a fence for security, to keep animals in, or purely for its neat, symmetrical appeal. Whatever you build it for, you'll need to make sure you understand all the costs involved, including labor, permits, materials, marking utility lines, preparation, and possibly concrete delivery.
It's also important to note that some types of fence are more expensive than others. For example, a security fence could cost up to $5,000 for the entire project. On the other hand, a privacy fence — which isn't as secure but is much easier to install — can cost significantly less, particularly if you don't opt for a gate. Material plays a huge role in pricing as well. PVC or vinyl fences are much more affordable than wrought iron or fancy wood.
Broadly speaking, the average cost of installing a fence is $2,401. The minimum cost is around $60 and the maximum is $5,139.
Cheapest Privacy Fences
The cheapest way to build a privacy fence would be to opt for a material such as vinyl or PVC, which is durable and light. It might not offer the level of security you'd get from an iron or large wooden fence, but it can still deter burglars and keep children and pets safely contained in your yard. An aluminum fence is another affordable option that offers less security. If you're looking for a security fence constructed from wrought iron with electric gates, saving money is likely to be a challenge.
Of course, DIY fencing is an option — but there are a lot of risks if you go down this route. It's time-consuming and requires precision and expertise, and you could potentially hit a utility line while you're digging holes for the posts. There are plenty of inexpensive privacy fence ideas that you can reference when hiring a pro.
Is A Permit Needed?
Home improvement is so much fun, but there's always plenty to consider when it comes to rules and regulations. Just like anything that could potentially affect property lines, you might need to get permission to build a fence. Where you reside, how tall your fence is going to be, and the part of your land you install the fence on all play a role in whether you need a permit.
- A privacy fence in your front yard requires permission if it's more than 3.5 feet. For the backyard, the limit is 6 feet.
- If you live in an area with a high population, you'll probably need permission.
- On the other hand, a farmer who wants to erect a wire fence in a rural area is unlikely to need a permit.
If you're facing any uncertainty, make sure you ask the local building inspector or check with City Hall.
Backyard Dog Fence
One of the best backyard fence ideas for dogs is the invisible fence. To build electric fencing, the tradesperson digs a trench and places a wire along your chosen boundary. Additionally, you need a wireless transmitter to activate the invisible fence — and your pet will need to wear a collar that receives the signal. It can work as a dog fence or horse fence and even backs up existing fencing that an animal could climb over or under.
More Backyard Fence Ideas
Your backyard fence options are almost endless. Here are some of our favorite modern ideas for building a fence in your backyard.
Types Of Backyard Wood Fences
Wooden fence panels can be made from a broad variety of materials, with the cost varying significantly depending on the type of wood you use. You can select a classic wood picket, a cedar fence, a bamboo fence, or even a second-hand pallet fence. Factors such as height, size, and design also factor into prices. Check out our wood fence cost calculator to find out more.
Metal Backyard Fences
Although wood is probably the most popular material for fencing in the US, metal is arguably the most durable and secure. With a coat of paint, you can customize metal fencing to make it match your home perfectly.
Backyard Fence Gate
In some cases, you might need to install a gate in addition to a fence. Again, the type of fence material you use will dictate the overall costs. A metal gate and fence costs the most, with a wooden gate and fence in the middle and a vinyl fence and gate offering the most affordable solution. No matter which material you choose, a gate can be an expensive piece of equipment to build and install.
Backyard Fence Lighting
You can customize the overall aesthetic of your entire property by adding lighting to the fence. From fairy lights to LED panels, you can make your yard look as chic or as magical as you wish.
Backyard Fence Landscaping
Another growing trend in 2020 is living fences and landscaped walls and gates. A living fence adds an extra layer of natural beauty to your backyard. If you're someone who absolutely adores the great outdoors, this could be the perfect option for your new fence. It's an affordable and attractive way to spruce up a cheaper material hiding underneath.
Start Building Your New Fence
If you're ready to frame your backyard with the fence you've always wanted, simply use our handy fence building cost calculator to get started!
