Wood fences have been around as far back as centuries and they are popular for versatility, aesthetics, and economy.
Apart from beautifying the environment, wood fences provide security, privacy, and containment for the kids.
On the flip side, they’re less durable and require a bit of maintenance.
Because they’re prone to rot, crack, warp, or pest damage, wood fencing usually has a limited life span, especially in wet climate regions.
Apart from these shortcomings, many people love woods for their aesthetic offering, and if Installed the right way – can last for multiple decades.
Here’s where we answer all your questions about wood fencing.
Wood Fence Cost
How much does a wood fence cost?
First off, keep in mind that wood fence is the umbrella term we use to cover all wood types, fence styles, and yard sizes.
So cost may vary.
Putting these variables into consideration, the average cost of installing a wood fence is around $3,222.
But the price usually ranges between $1,996 – $4,448 or $14 – $31 per foot. Again, keep in mind that these numbers are only based on the national average.
And the cost may vary since labor and plumber costs depend on location.
Keeping this in mind, you can expect to have your wooden fence fully installed for as high as $7,489 or for as low as $839 (especially when you’re installing on a small space)
How much does 200 ft of Wood fence cost?
You can expect to spend up to $3,200 for a 200 ft of Wood fence installation.
That’s around $16 per foot. As expected, a longer fence means higher costs of labor and material.
How much does a 6-foot fence cost per foot?
Installing a 6-foot tall fence may cost around $2,755 on average.
Homeowners may spend between $1,711 – $3, 290, where wood types, price range per foot, and material and labor are factors to consider.
Wood Fence: Installation
Wood Fence Installation: Steps
1. Layout
Step 1
- walk your fence line and mark out where your gate and posts will be located.
- Use a string and stake to stake out the entire fence before you dig the 1st hole.
- Determine the spots you want to dig your post. Remove the dirt in the spot with your shovel. Remove all rocks from the area where you want to dig. Transfer the dirt into the trap.
Step 2 – square corners.
- Use the 3, 4, 5 method to square corners.
- Measure out 3′ on one side and 4′ on the opposite side.
- The measurement in the middle should be 5′.
2. Dig Holes & Set the Posts
So, to get started, you’ll need the:
- Dirt and gravel
- Shovel
- Post Hole Digger
Step 1 – Dig Holes
1st post Hole size (12″W x 30″ deep)
- Start by the house or building.
- Use a manual post hole digger being careful not to damage the house.
- Remove the dirt in the spot with your shovel.
- Remove all rocks from the area where you want to dig.
- It’s worth mentioning that you should double the post parameter size.
- The minimum digging depth should be at least 2 feet if your post is around 7 feet tall.
Step 2 – Dig remaining holes
- Use a gas powered 2 person auger to dig your holes. Your back with thank you!!!!
- Make sure to measure each hole to the correct depth.
Step 3 Set the 1st post
- After digging the hole, drop 4 inches of gravel inside.
- Mark the posts for ground level. After dropping the gravel, place the post inside.
- You may need a helping hand here: ask your partner to hold the post upright so it can be properly straightened.
Step 4 Add concerete.
- After placing the pole, set in a bed of dry concrete.
- Be sure to confirm that the post remains upright before you add the two gravels.
- At this stage, all is almost set. So check again if the post is level and plumb and your post line is level with the ground.
- Mix a new bag in your wheel barror – to the consistency of cake batter.
- Add in the wet concerete. Keep it 2″ below the ground line and slope it away from the house so water runs away from the structure and off the post.
Step 5 Set 2 lines over all the holes
- 1st line is for the heights of each post – so they are even
- 2nd line is for keeping post even within the hole
Step 6 Set the remaining posts
- Let cure overnight.
- Have a beer – you are halfway done!
Step 7A Attach post top & post rail (non panel install step)
- Attach top rail through between the 1st two posts.
- Confirm level and plumb
- Attache bottom rail between posts
Step 7B Attach 6′ X 8′ panels
- Line up panels between posts
- Use 2″ x 4″ for standard height template so each panel is the same height where possible
- Use quality hardware to attach the panels to the posts.
Pro Tip: If you use nails or short screws your panels will likely shrink, twist within a few months and will look horrible within a year.
Step 8 Gates
- Install gate hinges to terminal posts.
- 8″ from the top and 8″ from the bottom.
- Attach the gate latch hardware
- Install the gate cross brace from the bottom hinge, facing up toward the gate latch. This will help to strenghten the gate so it does not sage
Can you put up a Wood fence without concrete?
Sure, you can set up a wood fence post without concrete.
However, concrete remains the best material for post setup.
If you’re looking for another option, gravel may be the ideal replacement.
In addition, setting up your wood fence without concrete can help you save a few bucks. And time. But you have to do it the right way, else, your posts will rot easily or won’t last.
Are 2 feet deep enough for fence posts?
This is a subjective question.
But as a general rule, the minimum depth of digging should be 2 feet.
On the other hand, you should try to measure your depth by digging one-third of the actual length of the post. That would help.
Warning- any depth less than 24 inches puts your post up for risk of blowing away in severe weather. Keep in mind that these rules apply to wood fences with concrete foundations.
How far apart should fence posts be?
The general fencing space is usually between 6-8 feet apart.
Factors like the types of fences can determine the fencing space.
Closely spaced fences are usually safe and more durable than those with large spacing.
In addition, these fences are usually easy to maintain without stress.
A spacious fence usually requires less cost and labor which may ultimately affect the fence’s safety and durability.
Where to buy?
You can purchase your wood fencing accessories from online fencing retail supply or wholesale stores or get them at a physical store.
Several credible online stores offer the best deals.
Wood Fence: Accessories
Gates
There are several factors to keep in mind when building a wood fence gate.
Depending on priority: gates can be built for decoration or built for security.
A securely built gate can prevent an outsider from having a clue about what’s going on inside.
More thanks to the sturdy wood panel hardware design.
Slats
Wood slats are the typical strip of wood extending from the floor to the top.
A typical strip is around half inches to 2 inches wide.
What is the life expectancy of a Wood fence?
A properly maintained wood fence,- which includes regular replacing of the boards and planks should last for between 15-20 years (or even more).
Again, keep in mind that wood needs proper maintenance. Else it may rot.
What is the ideal spacing for a wood fence post?
Spacing is a critical factor to consider when installing a wood fence.
An extremely far post distance will affect the fence stability. Always space your fence post within the recommended standard of 6-8 feet apart.
Should you Use foam instead of concrete?
Foam is a better option than concrete in some cases.
Expanding foam tends to expand upon exposure to air.
They are easy to set up, dries quicker, and long-lasting.
However, foams cannot withstand harsh conditions like concrete. When it comes to structural rigidity, concrete is the ideal choice.
What side of the wood fence should face the Neighbors?
When it comes to a wood fence, the finished or the beautiful side should face the neighbor.
Apart from being ethical, this is also the rule set by most boroughs and townships.
The finished side is the “face” and the unfinished is the “side”
You may be legally forced to rebuild your wood fencing if the wrong side of the fence faces your neighbor.
Therefore the nice side must face outwards.
While this is a great rule, you, as the owner may not want to view an unfinished wooden fence.
The solution is to make both sides look nice. You can get in touch with your local property maintenance office to learn more about the specific regulation in your area.
Wood Fence: FAQs
Of course, when building a new wooden fence, you need to consider yourself and your neighbor -Because while your fence is located in your yard, your neighbor will also see it every day.
Contact your neighbor
Unless your fence fulfills all property requirements and neighborhood regulations, you may not need to get in touch with your neighbor.
But on ethical grounds, It’s best to ask them questions so you can avoid future legal issues.
Define your property lines
Try to know where your property starts and ends. If you have no idea where the document is, try checking from your local record office. Or you can contact a surveyor to measure your land.
Should You Apply For A Building Permit?
Wood fences have a visual effect on properties and people living around the property.
Homeowners need a permit to confirm that their fence size, material, design, and scale meets all legal requirements. The world we live in today is prone to natural disasters so the permits codes are usually updated to ensure that fences are built to withstand severe harsh weather and environmental conditions- just to keep you protected.
You’ll get caught if you build a fence without a permit.
There are municipal laws that regulate the height of the fence, the material used, and even the accepted fencing style.
Reach out to your county’s planning office for your permit. The officer will provide you with a copy of the fencing installation regulation at the time you receive the permit.
How much weight can a dog metal kennel hold?
Wood Dog kennel sizes vary and depend on the size of the dog to live in them.
The smallest dog kennel is around 24 inches which are suitable for dogs weighing over 40 pounds.
There are average sized kennels weighing around 36 inches long and they can house dogs weighing between 40-70 pounds.
The large size wood kennel is around 42 inches long and can house dogs weighing between 70-90 pounds.
Does a Wood fence decrease property value?
Wood fencing doesn’t add much value to a home when you compare the cost of building and material. It can only scale the value of a home if such an outdoor structure is needed.
Plus a properly maintained wooden fencing will show that you care about your properties.
Wood Fence: Summary
Wood fences do not cost that much if you DIY. We showed you how much the cost is for the average wood fence installation.
You also should be able to install the wood fence and gate with the detailed 8 step process above.
Wood fences add value to your property and help keep your family safe and secure as well as keeping the outside world out.
