Fence Replacement Cost

What Is Fence Replacement?

Fence replacement involves removing your existing fence and installing a new fence system, including posts, rails, and panels or pickets. Understanding fence replacement cost helps you budget for this important property improvement that provides privacy, security, and curb appeal.

Common reasons for fence replacement include storm damage, rot and deterioration, outdated appearance, increased privacy needs, pet containment, and property line updates.

Fence Replacement Cost by Material

Chain Link Fence

Cost: $10-$20 per linear foot installed

Pros:

• Most affordable option
• Extremely durable
• Low maintenance
• See-through (security advantage)
• Easy to repair
• Quick installation

Cons:

• No privacy (without slats)
• Industrial appearance
• Can rust over time
• Not attractive
• Doesn't block wind or noise

Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners, pet containment, security, pool enclosures.

Wood Privacy Fence

Cost: $15-$35 per linear foot installed

Pros:

• Natural appearance
• Complete privacy
• Can be painted or stained
• Blocks wind and noise
• Easy to customize
• DIY-friendly

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance
• Susceptible to rot and insects
• Can warp and shrink
• 15-25 year lifespan
• Needs repainting/staining every 2-5 years

Best for: Privacy needs, traditional aesthetics, DIY installation.

Vinyl (PVC) Fence

Cost: $20-$40 per linear foot installed

Pros:

• Very low maintenance
• Won't rot, rust, or fade
• Long lifespan (20-30 years)
• Never needs painting
• Resists insects and moisture
• Clean appearance

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Limited color options
• Can crack in extreme cold
• Not as strong as wood
• Difficult to repair (replace entire sections)
• Can yellow over time

Best for: Low-maintenance preference, privacy, clean modern look.

Aluminum Fence

Cost: $25-$45 per linear foot installed

Pros:

• Elegant appearance
• Won't rust (powder-coated)
• Low maintenance
• Long-lasting (20-30 years)
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Works on slopes (rackable)

Cons:

• No privacy
• Doesn't contain small pets
• Not as strong as steel
• Higher cost
• Limited security (can be bent)

Best for: Decorative fencing, pool enclosures, front yards, slopes.

Wrought Iron/Steel Fence

Cost: $25-$60 per linear foot installed

Pros:

• Highest security
• Very durable (50+ years)
• Classic, elegant appearance
• Adds property value
• Can be customized with designs
• Strongest option

Cons:

• Most expensive
• No privacy
• Heavy (difficult installation)
• Can rust (requires maintenance)
• Needs periodic painting
• Professional installation required

Best for: Security, historic homes, high-end properties, front yards.

Composite Fence

Cost: $25-$50 per linear foot installed

Pros:

• Low maintenance
• Won't rot or warp
• Made from recycled materials
• Looks like wood
• Long lifespan (25+ years)
• Resists insects

Cons:

• High upfront cost
• Heavy panels
• Limited styles
• Can fade slightly
• Harder to find contractors

Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners, low maintenance with wood appearance.

Fence Cost Comparison Table

Factors That Affect Fence Replacement Cost

1. Linear Footage

Fence cost is calculated per linear foot. Typical yard sizes:

2. Fence Height

Taller fences cost more:

3. Terrain and Access

Additional costs for challenging conditions:

• Sloped terrain: +15-30%
• Rocky soil: +$5-$15 per post
• Tree root removal: +$50-$200 per post
• Limited access (no truck): +10-20%
• HOA approval requirements: Delays, specific materials

4. Gate Requirements

Gates add significant cost:

5. Old Fence Removal

Fence Replacement Cost by State

Prices include materials and installation.

Permit Requirements for Fencing

Typical Permit Requirements

Before You Build

1. Call 811 - Free utility locating service (required by law)
2. Check property lines - Survey if uncertain
3. Review HOA rules - May restrict materials, colors, heights
4. Talk to neighbors - Courtesy and potential cost-sharing
5. Apply for permit - If required in your area

Common Code Requirements

• Pool fences: 4-foot minimum height, self-closing/latching gates
• Corner lots: Height restrictions on street-facing sides
• Historic districts: Material and style restrictions
• Sight triangles: Low fencing near driveways and intersections

DIY vs Professional Fence Installation

DIY Installation

Realistic for:

• Wood privacy fences
• Chain link fences
• Simple vinyl fencing
• Homeowners with basic tools
• Flat terrain

Cost savings:

• Wood fence DIY: Save $1,500-$2,500 on 150-foot fence
• Chain link DIY: Save $750-$1,500

DIY Challenges:

1. Digging post holes in hard/rocky soil
2. Setting posts perfectly plumb and aligned
3. Heavy material handling
4. Gate installation (requires precision)
5. Corner and end posts (highest stress points)

Professional Installation

Recommended for:

• Vinyl fencing (precision required)
• Metal/aluminum fencing
• Sloped terrain
• Large properties
• When time is limited

Professional Benefits:

• Proper post setting technique
• Level, straight fence lines
• Warranty on installation
• Faster completion (1-2 days vs weekends)
• Correct gate operation

How to Save on Fence Replacement Cost

1. Get Multiple Quotes

Obtain 3-5 written estimates. Prices vary 20-40% between contractors.

2. Choose Appropriate Material

Match material to your actual needs. Don't buy vinyl if wood suits you.

3. Time Your Project

Late fall and winter often have lower prices. Avoid spring rush season.

4. Share Costs with Neighbors

If on property line, neighbors may split costs. Get written agreement.

5. Keep Gates to Minimum

Each gate adds $150-$400+. Plan placement efficiently.

6. DIY Removal

Remove old fence yourself to save $300-$900.

7. Buy Materials Directly

Some contractors mark up materials 15-25%. Buy direct and pay labor-only rate.

8. Standard Sizes

Custom heights and widths cost more. Stick to standard dimensions.

What to Expect During Fence Replacement

Day 1: Preparation

• Property line verification
• Utility marking (call 811 first)
• Old fence removal
• Post hole locations marked
• Materials delivered

Day 1-2: Post Setting

• Dig post holes (typically 1/3 of post length deep)
• Set posts in concrete
• Verify level and alignment
• Allow concrete to cure (often work continues same day)

Day 2-3: Rails and Panels

• Attach horizontal rails
• Install fence panels or pickets
• Install gates
• Final adjustments
• Cleanup

Timeline varies based on fence length and complexity.

Signs You Need Fence Replacement

Replace Soon (Within 1-2 Years)

• Multiple rotting or damaged boards
• Significant leaning
• Posts loosening in ground
• Extensive insect damage
• Fence over 15 years old

Replace Immediately

• Major storm damage
• Fence falling down
• Safety hazard (loose boards, exposed nails)
• Pool fence not meeting code
• Security compromised

Repair Instead of Replace

• Individual damaged boards
• One leaning post
• Minor gate adjustment needed
• Surface cosmetic issues

Conclusion

Fence replacement cost ranges from $1,500 to $8,000 for most average yards, with material choice and linear footage being the biggest factors. Chain link offers the lowest cost at $10-$20 per linear foot, while wood privacy fencing provides an excellent balance of cost and function at $15-$35 per foot.

When planning your fence project, consider your primary needs—privacy, security, aesthetics, or pet containment—and choose materials accordingly. Low-maintenance options like vinyl and aluminum cost more upfront but save on long-term maintenance.

Always verify property lines before installation, check permit requirements, call 811 for utility marking, and get multiple quotes. A well-installed fence adds curb appeal, security, and value to your home.