A new fence will improve your home's curb appeal and make your yard more private and secure. While you see the benefits of installing a fence, the estimated project cost has given you sticker shock. Understanding what goes into a fence price quote and the factors that affect the total cost can help you decide if a fence is the right choice for your property. It also helps to review your options for paying for a new fence.
How Fencing Projects Costs Are Calculated
Fencing project quotes typically range from $1,000 to well over $10,000. When you schedule a consultation with a fencing company, a fencing professional will visit your home and discuss your project needs. They'll also review your property and site plan to see if any obstacles, such as trees or existing structures, will affect your fencing project. The site plan also lets the contractor know where the property lines are.
Fence installation projects are often quoted by linear foot. Essentially, the larger your fence, the more the project costs. But within that quote are multiple other factors that influence the price.
Fence Installation Cost Breakdown
When giving you a quote for a fencing project, a fence installation contractor will typically take into account the following:
1. Size
The larger your yard, the more materials you'll need for your fence, which ultimately affects the price. Depending on the total size of your yard and the overall cost, you may decide to fence in a small area. For example, instead of having a fence fully encircle the yard, you might choose to install it in the back only.
Fence height also impacts the overall price. A fence that measures six feet high typically costs more than a four-foot fence.
2. Material Choice
Fences are available in various materials, including aluminum, vinyl, and wood. The fence material you choose affects the overall appearance of the project and its price tag. Typically, wood fences cost less than vinyl and aluminum.
While material choice impacts the cost of your fencing project, don't let the price be the driving factor when you pick a material. You also want to consider the ease of maintenance, aesthetic appeal, longevity, and cost of upkeep. While cheaper upfront, wood fences often have shorter lifespans than aluminum or vinyl and frequently require more care.
Your homeowners' association (HOA) might also have some say regarding the material you choose. Some HOAs don't allow wooden fences or might require you to install a particular style of fence.
3. Complexity
Fence projects can be quick and straightforward. But they can just as easily be complicated. The more complicated your project, the higher you can expect the price. The condition of your property influences the project's complexity. For example, if you have a lot of trees on your property, they may need to be removed before the installation begins.
It could also be the case that your property is on a hill or has a steep slope. When installing the fence, the team will need to grade it so that it follows the slope of the land, which can add to the price.
Soil conditions also influence the cost. If you have rocky soil, the installers may have more difficulty digging out the holes for the posts.
4. Site Plan and Permit Requirements
Depending on where you live, you may need to order a certified site plan before the project starts. You may also need a permit, depending on your location and the type of fence installed. Residents of Indianapolis typically don't need permits for fencing projects, with a few exceptions, so that's one cost you may not have to worry about.
5. Removing an Old Fence
If you're replacing an older fence, most companies will charge you to remove and discard the old fencing materials.
Paying for a New Fence
Cost is a big concern with any home improvement project. In many cases, the return on investment and boost to your home's property value makes the upfront cost worth it. You still need a way to pay for your new fence today. Luckily, you have options!
If you don’t want to pay in full upfront for your new fence, financing options may be available. Typically, you can choose from term financing, which provides a lump sum that you pay back over a specific period, or a line of credit, which allows you to access funds when and as you need them.
Your first step toward a new fence is setting up a consultation with HOA Fence Company. We'll review your project needs and wants to give you an idea of what the project will cost. We also offer financing options and can help you understand your choices. Contact us for a quote today.
