When it comes to installing a new fence around your property, one of the biggest considerations is cost. The two most popular fencing materials are wood and metal. Many homeowners find themselves debating which material will be more budget-friendly for their specific project. There are pros and cons to both wood and metal fencing in terms of upfront installation costs and long-term maintenance fees. This article will examine the cost differences between wood and metal fencing to help you determine which material will be more economical for your needs.
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Upfront Installation Costs
The upfront installation costs are what you will pay initially to have the fence constructed. This includes expenses like fencing materials, labor, and any additional hardware needed for installation. Let’s compare the upfront costs of wood and metal fences:
Wood Fences
Wood fences tend to be more affordable for initial installation. Pressure-treated pine is an economical and durable wood choice that only costs $3-$7 per linear foot. Cedar and redwood cost more at $7-$15 per linear foot but provide greater longevity. Other lumber options like birch and bamboo would be at the higher end of this range.
In addition to the wood itself, there are costs for framing, posts, and fasteners. For a basic 6-foot privacy fence, figure at least $15-$25 per linear foot for a professional installation. This can go up significantly if your project requires terrain leveling, removal of existing fences, or other unique considerations.
Metal Fences
Metal fences typically range from $20-$50 per linear foot for materials and installation. Less expensive metals like galvanized steel and aluminum can help you get closer to $20 per foot, while decorative styles from iron, steel, or aluminum are often $35 per foot and beyond.
The specific metal fence style makes a big impact too. Ornamental wrought iron average $50-$100 per linear foot but can easily be $200+ per foot for intricate custom designs. Industrial chain link fences start around $20 per foot for galvanized steel but can still cost $40+ per foot installed.
Cost Comparison
Based solely on upfront installation costs, wood fences are generally cheaper, with basic privacy fences starting around $15 per linear foot versus $20+ per foot for most metal fences. However, higher grades of wood can get closer in price to more economical metals like galvanized steel and aluminum. The chart below compares common materials:
| Fence Material | Typical Price Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine | $3-$7 |
| Cedar | $7-$15 |
| Redwood | $7-$15 |
| Birch | $15-$25 |
| Bamboo | $15-$25 |
| Galvanized Steel | $15-$25 |
| Aluminum | $20-$40 |
| Wrought Iron | $50-$200 |
Keep in mind that the prices above are rough estimates. Your specific project costs will depend on factors like fence height, post spacing, decorative elements, terrain, permitting fees, and labor.
Long-Term Maintenance Fees
The continuing maintenance costs can really impact your long-term budget for a fence. All fences will require some degree of regular maintenance to look their best and avoid needing expensive repairs or full replacements down the road.
Wood Fence Maintenance
Expect to power wash and re-seal or stain a wood fence every 2-3 years. This helps protect the wood from sun damage, moisture rot, insect damage, and decay. Paying a contractor for power washing and re-sealing typically costs around $1-$2 per linear foot. DIY maintenance saves on labor fees, but you still have to budget for supplies. The fence stain or sealer can run $0.75-$1.50 per square foot.
Aside from regular sealing, inspect wood fences at least annually for loose posts, damaged pickets, protruding nails, and decayed wood. Immediately repair any issues that could lead to accelerated deterioration. Depending on the extent of repairs needed, total fees can range from $200 for minor fixes up to $5,000 or more for replacing sections of fencing.
Metal Fence Maintenance
Metal fences hold up better to the elements and therefore require less frequent maintenance than wood. A simple inspection every year or two to check for any damage, loose fittings, or holes in the metal is sufficient. Use touch up paint where needed to prevent rust. For standard galvanized steel, expect a thorough cleaning and re-sealing every 5-10 years, at a cost of around $0.50-$1 per linear foot.
Wrought iron and aluminum have higher upfront costs but are very low maintenance. Wrought iron may need re-sealing every 7-10 years, at $1-$2 per linear foot. Aluminum can go 10-15 years between sealings, at a cost of $0.75-$1.25 per foot.
Repair costs for metal fences are typically lower than wood. Replacing individual pickets, posts, rails, or hardware is inexpensive. Major repairs like straightening posts or resetting entire sections might run $200-$1,000.
Cost Comparison
When tallying up continuing maintenance fees over the 20-25 year expected lifespan of a fence, wood fences end up costing significantly more than metal. You’ll pay for power washing and re-sealing a wood fence every 2-3 years, while a metal fence only needs a basic cleaning every 5-10 years. See the comparison below:
| Fence Material | Typical Maintenance Frequency | Estimated 25 Year Maintenance Cost Per Linear Foot* |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine | Power wash & re-seal every 2-3 years | $40-$60 |
| Cedar | Power wash & re-seal every 2-3 years | $40-$60 |
| Redwood | Power wash & re-seal every 2-3 years | $40-$60 |
| Galvanized Steel | Clean & re-seal every 5-10 years | $15-$25 |
| Aluminum | Clean & re-seal every 10-15 years | $10-$20 |
| Wrought Iron | Clean & re-seal every 7-10 years | $20-$40 |
*Estimated maintenance costs based on professional service fees.
These long-term maintenance costs show that metal fences come out significantly cheaper than wood over time. Metal requires less frequent maintenance overall and is less susceptible to deterioration.
Other Cost Considerations
Aside from basic installation and maintenance, here are a few other cost factors to keep in mind when choosing wood or metal fencing:
Fence Height
The height of the fence impacts installation costs. Each additional foot in height increases both material and labor expenses. For example, a 6 foot wood privacy fence may cost $25 per linear foot to install, while an 8 foot version of the same style could be $35 per foot.
Fence Post Spacing
Wider spacing between fence posts reduces costs but can compromise durability and structural integrity. A good balance is 8 feet between posts for wood and 10 feet for metal. Going wider than that risks sagging and posts leaning over time.
Permits
Most areas require permits and inspections for new fencing, especially around pools. Permit fees vary by location but figure around $200 on average. Some municipalities impose design restrictions like a maximum fence height, which could influence material costs.
Terrain
Leveling uneven ground prior to fence installation involves extra labor and equipment fees. Small bumps and dips usually only add a few dollars per foot but substantial grading can cost over $10 per linear foot.
Removal of Existing Fence
Taking down and disposing of your old fence adds $2-$4 per linear foot. The costs are higher if the existing posts are set in concrete.
Custom Designs
Ornamental details like latticework, finials, and inset lights raise the price for both materials and installation labor. Wrought iron and aluminum are commonly used for decorative custom fences, which start around $50 per foot.
Conclusion
While wood fences are generally cheaper for upfront installation costs, regular maintenance and repairs make them more expensive over the lifespan of a fence. Metal has higher initial costs but greater durability and lower long-term maintenance expenses.
Pressure-treated pine is the most economical wood option starting around $15 per linear foot installed. Higher end woods like cedar and redwood run $25-$35 per foot. For metal, galvanized steel and aluminum run $20-$40 per foot installed.
To keep a wood fence looking good, expect to power wash and re-seal it every 2-3 years at around $1-$2 per foot each time. A metal fence only needs cleaning and re-sealing every 5-10 years for less than $1 per foot.
Factoring in long-term maintenance, metal is generally the more cost-effective choice. However, opt for wood if your budget is tight for initial costs. Also consider the aesthetic look you want and whether permits or codes limit fencing height or materials in your area.
With both wood and metal fencing installed properly, you can expect at least a 20-25 year lifespan. Take time to analyze both the upfront and ongoing costs to determine whether wood or metal fencing makes the most financial sense for your yard.