Is wood fence cheaper than metal
Andrew Campbell
Updated on April 07, 2026
Verdict: Is Aluminum Fencing Cheaper Than Wood? Overall, aluminum fence costs vs. wood, long term, are about equal. Having said that, aluminum fence total costs go down substantially over the life of the fence.
What is the cheapest material for a fence?
- Treated pine ($12 to $19 per linear foot installed) …
- Chain link ($10 to $20 per linear foot) …
- Wrought iron ($24 to $32 per linear foot) …
- Barbed wire ($1.50 to $2 per linear foot) …
- Hog wire ($3 to $5 per linear foot) …
- Electric ($1 to $6 per linear foot) …
- Pallet (free!)
What type of fence is least expensive?
PVC fencing. The cheapest way to create a fence for your home is by getting one made from PVC. Such fences substitute wooden pickets and stakes to offer your protection from the outside world. PVC sleeves improve the stability of wooden posts used as a fence, reducing the cost of material and the labor used.
Which is more expensive wood or iron fence?
4′ tall wood fencing averages about $9. Wood fencingthat is 6′ tall runs about $15. Vinyl fencing is the second most expensive material to use, averaging at $20. Wrought iron is the most expensive type of fencing to use, and it ranges from $20 to $30.Is a metal fence cheaper?
Metal vs Wood Fence Whether you choose aluminum or wrought iron, metal is often a more expensive up fencing material upfront. In fact, wrought iron is likely the most expensive fence material, with aluminum being its slightly cheaper alternative.
What is the cheapest privacy fence?
If privacy is important for you, your cheapest fencing option is bamboo rolls or panels. There are cheaper fence materials, such as hog wire and chain-link, but they’re see-through and therefore don’t make good privacy fences.
What is the easiest fence to install?
The complexity of each type depends on the material used and how well it was installed. The quickest and easiest fence to install is with wood panels. The wood panels are not always the cheapest, but they save time rather than installing the rails and pickets separately.
How much does it cost to put a metal fence up?
The national average to install an aluminum or steel fence is about $3,915. Most homeowners pay between $2,198 and $5,638, with high-end expenses reaching up to $8,000. Average material costs fall between $7 to $32 per foot, while labor averages $15 to $40 per foot.What's cheaper chain link or wood fence?
Chain link fences are typically less expensive than wood fences. That’s because the material is less expensive and the labor hours required for installation are usually less. However, add-ons like gates, vinyl coating or fabric screens will all increase the total cost per foot of a chain link fence.
How can I fence my yard cheap?- Corrugated fencing. Recycling old materials is a great dual-purpose way to build cheap fencing. …
- Pallet fencing. For DIY projects, pallets are a common go-to, especially to build a yard fence. …
- Split rail. …
- Chain link. …
- 4-rail horse fence. …
- Bamboo fences. …
- Wrought iron. …
- Vinyl fencing.
How can I save money on a fence?
- Reduce the Materials Where Possible. Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking that the fence needs to be the same height all around. …
- Plan to Prevent Mistakes. …
- Consider Cheaper Materials. …
- Secure Necessary Permits Yourself. …
- Book in the Slow Season.
What is the cheapest wood fence?
Treated pine is the most affordable and durable wood option, with HomeAdvisor estimating approximately $1 to $5 per linear foot for a 6-foot tall privacy fence board. Pressure treated pine will be more durable than regular pine over time, so it is a good value even though it costs a bit more.
Do aluminum fences hold up?
Though not as strong as steel, as you might have guessed, aluminum fencing will stand up to most environments. Finally, it won’t work well as a privacy fence, so if you want to block out your neighbors, try vinyl instead.
Is metal fence cheaper than vinyl?
Aluminum fencing materials are cheaper than iron and vinyl. Like vinyl, the initial costs are higher than wood. The typical cost of building an aluminum fence is around $3,700.
Is wood cheaper than aluminum?
The original cost of wood is usually significantly cheaper than aluminum. Wood is made from natural materials, so it’s environmentally friendly.
How do I build a privacy fence without digging?
- A Metal Spike Anchor and a Sledgehammer. If you are not wanting to dig to set your fence post, a metal spike anchor might be the easiest option. …
- T-Post Driver. …
- E-Z Spike. …
- Steel Posts in the Ground. …
- Above the Ground Fences.
Is hog wire fencing expensive?
If you’re using wooden posts and rails, a hog wire fence is a little more expensive than chain-link, but costs less than a solid cedar fence. … If you hire a landscaper or fencing contractor, installing a 6-foot-high wood-and-wire fence costs from $35 to $50 per running foot, depending on labor costs in your area.
What is the cheapest dog fence?
Use PVC Deer Block Netting for Dog Fences (the cheapest option) Without a doubt the easiest and most affordable dog fence idea is to use PVC deer block netting. DIY dog fences made of PVC are inexpensive and highly flexible.
How long does a wooden fence last?
A wood fence usually lasts approximately 15 years. However, with the proper maintenance, you can extend the life of your wood fence to 20 years or more.
Is a vinyl fence cheaper than wood?
The cost of installing a new fence is relatively affordable. Installing a vinyl fence costs less than wood, although wood as a material is generally cheaper. Wood ranges from $2 to $10 per picket, while vinyl costs between $2 and $6.
How much does 200 ft of chain link fence cost?
Cost factors include the height of the fence, the material the fence is made of, and labor costs. The average cost to install a chain link fence ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, with the average homeowner spending $2,780 for a 200 ft.
Does a fence increase value of home?
A fence itself does not add as much value to the home when compared to material and construction costs. It will enhance the value of the home only if there is a true need for such an outdoor structure.
How long does metal fencing last?
How long do they last? Protect the finish and you can get 20 years or more from hollow steel. A solid-steel, cast-iron, or tubular-aluminum fence can last a lifetime.
What type of fence is most durable?
Masonry wall fencing is the most durable fence material. This includes brick, concrete, stone, block, and even stucco. It’s known for its longevity and can last over 100 years without any issues.
Is it cheaper to install your own fence?
Is it cheaper to build your own fence? Yes, you will usually save money building your own fence than hiring a contractor for the same project. But keep in mind that either way, the actual cost depends on the material and style of fence you choose — and how much work you want to do yourself.
Is iron or aluminum fence cheaper?
Aluminum costs less than iron, so if you’re on a budget and like a low-maintenance lifestyle, it may be a better fit. But if you need a strong fence for frequent use and cost is not a problem, go with wrought iron.
Why are aluminum fences so expensive?
There are two big factors in price when it comes to aluminum fences being so expensive: installation and markup. You might look at the price of an aluminum fence and feel that it’s not that bad only to find out that, with installation, it’s way out of your price range.
Is an aluminum fence worth it?
Aluminum fencing is a great choice for the homeowner who wants lasting aesthetic appeal with very little upkeep. Unlike wood, aluminum fences never require painting or refinishing. Aluminum fencing also won’t rust, unlike materials like chain-link or wrought iron. Aluminum fences are also famously easy to clean.
Is PVC or aluminum fence cheaper?
Pricing depends on a variety of factors, including the manufacturer, the size of the fence, and the style. Generally, however, vinyl and aluminum fencing are quite comparable in price. Although aluminum tends to be more affordable than vinyl, the difference is not dramatic.