Obviously, cedar fence costs will vary greatly depending on many factors; including the type of cedar that is used, the style of fencing that you want, and the location you live in. Prices can range from anywhere between $15 – $25 per linear foot on average.
There can be additional costs involved too:
- Permits and site preparation.
- Whether or not a gate is to be included.
- The removal of any old, existing fencing.
- Any additional staining that you want on your new fence.
It is important to be aware of all costs involved before contracting a company to provide you with a cedar fence installation & repair, as while initial costs may seem cheaper than other types of fencing materials like vinyl, it is important to understand that wood is a natural material that requires ongoing maintenance.
Remember to factor this cedar fence installation cost into your budget if you want your fence to continue looking good for years to come.
The Breakdown: Materials vs Labor Costs
Firstly, you need to understand what is meant by the term ‘per linear foot’. Fences are long, continuous structures, and because of that the most common and simplest way to price them is per linear foot. This means the cost is based on the total straight-line length of the fence that is needed, not its height or area.
The price per linear foot typically includes both the cedar fence material cost and the labor needed to install it, making quotes easier to understand and compare when you are trying to budget for a project.
However, be sure to confirm exactly what is included with the contractor as variations can occur with factors like fence height and project complexity, materials used and your location.
Always get multiple quotes from several contractors in your area to ensure you are getting a fair price and be clear on exactly what is included in the price per linear foot, such as waste removal or any necessary permits.
Remember that the cedar fence installation cost will vary based on the cost of living in different areas, and the regional labor rates in your location. If you are keen on DIY, you may consider doing some of the work yourself to save money but be aware of the labor and time involved in installing a fence.
The cedar fence material cost may vary due to market fluctuations, and lumber prices can change depending on availability and demand, affecting the overall price of your wood. Different types of cedar wood will vary significantly in price, so research the grade of wood to suit your budget and needs.
Key Factors That Influence Your Final Cost
The grade of cedar that you choose can significantly affect your cedar fence costs. Cedar wood can be Clear Grade (A-D) which is a higher quality wood with few or no visible knots and minimal color variation, or Knotty Grade (numbered grades) which features a more rustic, knotty look.
The best looking, most defect-free grades are more durable and more expensive, while lower grades offer a more rustic look, and are more affordable. Western red cedar is considered a premium wood and all grades offer excellent natural resistance to rot and insects, making it a solid choice.
Once you’ve chosen the quality of cedar you need to decide on a style. Different styles of fencing use different amounts of materials, which will naturally affect the price tag. Solid, or privacy fencing create a strong, visual barrier with no gaps, unlike the more traditional, slatted picket fence.
There are numerous considerations like the level of privacy you want, noise reduction and overall appearance of your yard, and the style and height of your fence will affect the overall cost. The installation of gates will also add to the overall cost as extra hardware and construction will be required.
The type of terrain you are dealing with can also be a key factor in your final costs. Any property that requires significant site preparation such as clearing land, levelling ground or dealing with difficult terrain will impact the cedar fence installation cost. If you are on a budget, it may be worth investigating if you can do any of the preparation yourself.
Depending on your local municipality, you may need to obtain permits for a new fence installation, so be prepared to budget this into the final cost, and any finishing touches or decorative additions like post caps or lattice, will add to the overall cedar fence material cost.
Is a Cedar Fence a Good Investment?
A well installed, good-quality cedar fence will add significant value to your property so is definitely a worthwhile investment. Its naturally warm aesthetics means a sturdy cedar fence will not only enhance your property’s overall look and add curb appeal but also provide you with privacy and security.
With the state of our environment on all our lips today, cedar makes a wise choice for the eco-friendly. It is both renewable and biodegradable, and its natural oils and tannins eliminates the need for toxic chemical treatments as it is naturally resistant to decay and insects.
It is durable and long-lasting, and with good maintenance your cedar fence can last up to 20 years or more making it a great investment for you, and the environment.
At OnPoint Fencing and Decking, we offer a range of fencing options and we’re particularly proud of our cedar range. Read more about it now to see if cedar is right for your project.
