Cost of Fencing in a Yard
How much does a fence cost? Unfortunately, there are as many answers to this question as there are fences. However, a homeowner can get an idea for the cost of a fencing project by considering a number of factors.
The cost of fencing materials will depend upon the height and length of the fence, the type, number, and sizes of gates to be incorporated, and the materials to be used. To approximate the expected cost of a fencing project, first measure the fencing length. Using a tape measure, walk along the expected fence step by step, then draw a diagram of the yard or space to be enclosed, writing out the lengths of each fencing section. Will the fence itself be a complete square or rectangle, will it be of odd shape, or will it attach to the side of a house or an existing fence section? The number of required posts and attached rails and panels may be reduced by physically attaching the fence to the home or other structure.
For most fences, including standard wood or metal fences, the structure will be anchored to posts that are set in cement. The number of posts required will depend upon both lengths of each section and local zoning requirements; many ordinances mandate that there be a maximum space between fence posts of 8 feet or so. Even wall-type fences such as concrete, stucco or brick are generally anchored into the ground; these structures can also be more complicated to build properly than wood or metal fences and are often best left to professionals.
Once you have determined the length of each fence section and the locations and number of posts to be used, it is just a matter of pricing out the rails (horizontal sections) and panels (attached vertical sections) that will comprise your fence. The gate materials and hardware will also add to the cost, and you will need to purchase concrete to set your fence posts. In addition, many find that shoring up the fence posts with small stakes or anchors is the best way to hold them perfectly vertical and aligned with each other while the concrete sets.
As you price out materials for your fence, examine your diagram of its dimensions. Can the lengths of the sides be readily divisible by 4, 6 or 8 feet? If so, you may find that a fence built of modular sections is both easier and more economical than building the entire fence from scratch. In contrast, for a fence that will contain several sections of odd lengths, it may be just as easy to build it from the ground up. If modular sections would still need considerable trimming down to fit the desired space, thus leaving too many unused materials and causing the homeowner even more work, these pre-determined lengths of fencing may not be appropriate.
Of course, another important cost consideration is whether or not the building will be do-it-yourself or contracted. Generally, one can expect to pay up to two or three times the cost of materials when hiring a fencing contractor. As with any construction project, the cost of labor will depend on the current economy, as supply and demand for this type of work fluctuates greatly during periods of economic hardship or surplus.