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What is Involved in Wooden Fence Pricing?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

Wooden fencing is an excellent option for any garden or landscape fencing product. Whether using rustic log poles or charming and picturesque picket styles, wooden fences have the advantages of being versatile and often easy to install. It is important to consider the various prices that go into wooden fence pricing. Understanding wooden fence pricing can help a savvy homemaker establish a budget for any fencing project.

One of the major issues involved in wooden fence pricing is the type of wood used. Just as silk costs more than cotton, so, too, do certain woods create a premium through durability, fashion, and even rarity. Generally, the more common the type of wood, the lower the cost. Imported or rare woods may be more expensive. Synthetic wood, or wood-look products made from compressed particleboard, may be the least expensive option.

A house with a picket fence.
A house with a picket fence.

Another factor in wooden fence pricing may be the harvesting method used to obtain the wood. It may be more expensive to use wood that has been harvested in a sustainable or ecologically-concerned matter. These woods are timbered in a method that includes replanting and careful selection of logging areas, so as not to disrupt natural ecosystems through clear cutting. While some people consider this an unnecessary expense, others find it a fair price to pay for the sustainable method of gathering materials.

Wood fencing made from wood obtained using sustainable practices will be more expensive.
Wood fencing made from wood obtained using sustainable practices will be more expensive.

The dimensions of the fence will play a large part in wooden fence pricing. The length of the fence is generally one of the largest price considerations. Additionally, the height of the fence will factor into the cost; a low picket fence is likely to be far less expensive than a six foot (1.8 m) high perimeter fence.

Additional costs may include tools and materials needed to build the fence, such as nails and hammers. It is important to add these tools into the budget for wooden fence pricing, so as to avoid ending up with just a large pile of sticks. Materials such as a fence plan or do-it-yourself guide to building a fence may be also considered in wooden fence pricing.

Wood for fencing that is more durable tends to be pricier.
Wood for fencing that is more durable tends to be pricier.

For those planning to hire professional builders to oversee the installation of a wooden fence, it is important to get detailed information on labor cost. Workers may be paid by the hour or have a flat fee for an entire job. If paying hourly, be certain to get an estimate on how long the job will take in order to make accurate estimates as to cost. Some lumber supply stores may offer discounted materials if the customer uses the installation team employed by the store.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a WiseGEEK writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a WiseGEEK writer.

Learn more...

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    • A house with a picket fence.
      A house with a picket fence.
    • Wood fencing made from wood obtained using sustainable practices will be more expensive.
      By: onepony
      Wood fencing made from wood obtained using sustainable practices will be more expensive.
    • Wood for fencing that is more durable tends to be pricier.
      By: Johanna Goodyear
      Wood for fencing that is more durable tends to be pricier.