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Chain Link Vs. Wood Fence Cost
Comparing Wood Fence vs. Chain Link Fence Costs
Building a fence doesn’t have to cost a ton of money. There are budget-friendly fencing materials that can still protect your home and privacy. If you’re planning on installing a fence and are wondering, “How much is chain link fence compared to natural wood fencing?”, this helpful guide is for you. Keep reading to compare wood fence vs. chain link fence costs.
Average Cost of Chain Link Fencing
The average cost range of installing chain link fencing is between $1,200 and $3,500. The best way to find out how much your fence will cost is to contact a local fencing installer. They can measure your property, discuss your needs and budget, and help you find the most affordable solution. Certain features will add more to the cost of your fence, such as specialty chainlink fence panels, security gates, powder coating, and privacy screens. Hiring a professional for installation will also increase the cost but will ensure your fencing is safe, built to last, and installed according to local building codes and regulations.
Average Cost of a Natural Wood Fence
The average cost of installing a natural wood fence can range from $1,900 to $4,800. Your final price will depend on the species and type of wood you choose, as well as the size of the fence, the style and design, and any decorative features or custom elements you add. Call a few fencing companies in your area to get estimates for wood fence installation. They can measure your property and give you estimates based on the size and design of the fence and any special requirements you have. Some features that will cost more are security gates or locking gates, decorative elements like lattice fence toppers, and other materials like steel.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Fencing
There are a lot of different factors that can end up making your fence installation more expensive. Your installer can go over your options with you to help you better understand the cost of each element. The biggest factors that affect the cost of chain link and natural wood fencing are:
- Length and Height – No matter the material you choose, the overall size of your fence will affect its final cost. The length and height of the fence determine your installer’s material and labor needs.
- Material – Different materials also have different costs. The gauge of metal used for a chain link fence, as well as its mesh size and diamond size, can all influence the final cost. The species of wood you choose for a wood fence will also determine your fence’s cost. Some wood varieties, like Western red cedar, white oak, black locust, and tropical hardwoods, are more expensive than others. The least expensive varieties of wood are usually cedar, cypress, pine, and spruce.
- Design – Your fence’s design will affect what materials are needed. If you want specialty features and decorative elements, you may end up paying more. You will also pay more for privacy fencing and super tall fencing, as well as adding security gates, automated gates, and entry points.
- Decorative Elements and Special Features – Decorative elements and special features will cost more. The most common ones that can add to the overall cost of your fence are fence toppers, specialty hardware, decorative posts, gates, metal work, privacy screens, and wind screens.
- Installation, Labor, and Finishing – Installation, labor, and finishing costs will also vary depending on the fence size and materials. Some installers may change more than others, which is why you should get more than one estimate. Installing gates, post caps, privacy slats, and other decorative elements will add to the installation cost.
Preserving the Value of Your Fence
Once you have invested in the cost of a new fence, do everything you can to maintain its value, beauty, and durability. All fencing requires care and maintenance, even low-maintenance options like vinyl fencing and composite wood fencing. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your investment and making sure your fence lasts as long as possible:
- Regularly inspect your fence for signs of damage, insect activity, and wear and tear.
- Inspect your fence after heavy storms or periods of extreme weather.
- Clean your fence regularly by brushing off dirt and debris or spraying it with a hose or soft pressure washer.
- Make fence repairs right away, or the damage will get more extensive and expensive.
- Do not lean heavy objects up against your fence or hang anything heavy from your fence.
- Don’t climb on your fence or sit on it.
- Try to protect your fence from animals and insects.
- Take care when using mowers, equipment, or vehicles near your fence.
- Re-apply protective coatings as needed.
- Keep trees, bushes, shrubs, and other plants trimmed so that they won’t grow over or into your fence.
Request an Estimate for Fence Installation
Dick’s Evergreen Fence and Deck offers high-quality, durable fencing. We can offer you an estimate for the cost of fence materials and installation so that you can make an informed decision about which type of fencing is right for you. We specialize in steel fencing, cedar fencing, vinyl fencing, chain link fencing, and SimTek fencing. Call now or contact us online to request an estimate for fence installation in the Portland, OR, area.