“How much does a fence cost?” is the first question almost everyone asks, and the honest answer is that it depends on your yard. Two fences with the same length can price very differently. Here are the factors that drive fence installation cost, so you can read any quote, ours included, and know what you’re paying for.
1. Fence Material
Material is the biggest single factor. In general, wood costs the least up front, and vinyl and aluminum cost more up front. Vinyl and aluminum often make up some of the difference over time because they don’t need stain. Compare them in our fence material guide.
2. Style Within a Material
Within wood, a shadow box fence uses more boards than a standard privacy fence because boards alternate on both sides of the rails. A picket or split rail fence uses far less material than either.
3. Total Length
Fences are priced largely by the linear foot. Measure the run you have in mind, or tell us roughly where it goes, and we’ll measure it exactly at the estimate.
4. Height
A 6-foot privacy fence uses more material than a 4-foot fence over the same distance. Local height limits also cap how tall you can go. See how tall a fence can be in each city.
5. Gates
Every gate adds hardware, a stronger post setup and labor. A double drive gate costs more than a walk gate because it spans more and needs two solid hinge posts. Read choosing a fence gate.
6. Removing an Old Fence
Tearing out and hauling away an existing fence is its own line item. Tell us about it in your quote request. If the old fence sits on a shared line, settle ownership with your neighbor first. See fences on the property line.
7. Grade, Trees and Obstacles
Slopes, tree roots, concrete, rock and tight side yards all slow installation. A flat, open backyard is the fastest job. A fence that has to step down a hill or wrap around mature trees takes more time.
8. Permits and Local Rules
Most communities we serve charge a permit fee. St. Clair Shores lists $100 for residential, Macomb Township $75 and Chesterfield Township $65. Rules can also change the design itself, such as a corner-lot step-down or a waterfront lot that requires aluminum instead of a privacy fence. See the fence permit guide.
9. Access
If materials have to be carried a long way, or the work area is hard to reach, labor goes up.
How to Keep Fence Cost Down
- Get the layout right once. Ask us to price two options, for example wood vs. vinyl or 4 feet vs. 6 feet.
- Limit gates to what you’ll use. One well-placed double gate can replace two walk gates.
- Clear the fence line yourself. Moving planters, play sets and firewood before the crew arrives saves time. See the installation prep checklist.
- Compare apples to apples. Check that every quote includes the same height, material grade, gate count, removal and post setting.
What’s Included in Our Fence Quotes
Our estimates are free and in writing. We measure the run on site and note gates, grade, obstacles and any old fence to remove, so the price reflects your actual yard. We accept cash, check, credit card, Venmo and Cash App.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fence Estimate Free?
Yes. Estimates are free and come with no obligation.
Is Old Fence Removal Included?
Removal is priced as part of the job when you need it. Mention it in your quote request so it’s on the estimate.
Does a Corner Lot or Waterfront Lot Cost More?
Sometimes. The rules can require a step-down section, a see-through style or a different material, such as aluminum on the water side. We design to the rules first and price that design.
Why Do Fence Quotes Vary so Much?
Different heights, material grades, post setting, gate hardware and whether removal is included. Compare quotes line by line.
One reviewer compared four quotes and wrote that Final Touch Fencing “had the best price.” The only way to know for your yard is a measured, written estimate, and ours is free. Get a free fence quote.
Planning a fence? We check the rules for your address as part of every free estimate. Request your free quote or call (810) 614-4181.
