What You Should Know About 6-Foot Privacy Fence Cost Per Foot

Installing a privacy fence typically ranges from $12 to $50 per linear foot, with the price fluctuating based on material selection and installation complexity. For a standard residential yard with a 150-foot perimeter, homeowners can expect to budget approximately $3,300 for a complete installation. The core question most property owners face isn’t just about affordability—it’s about finding the right balance between cost and durability.

Breaking Down the Price Per Linear Foot

The cost per linear foot represents the standard measurement contractors use when quoting fence projects. Since your yard’s linear footage equals its perimeter measurement, lot size becomes the primary cost driver. However, it’s rarely that simple.

Material and labor each account for roughly 50% of the per-foot price. Additional expenses surface quickly: corner posts cost more than standard panels, gate installation adds to the tab, and hardware purchases accumulate. Site conditions matter tremendously—sloped terrain, rocky soil, or existing obstacles can push costs significantly higher.

Accurate measurements are foundational. Before committing funds, determine:

• Exact perimeter length (consider hiring a surveyor for precision)
• Number of corner posts needed
• Desired fence height
• Gate dimensions and quantity

These variables directly influence your final quote and material ordering.

Material Options and Their Price Impacts

Privacy fence materials fall into distinct categories, each with unique cost-benefit profiles.

Wood remains the most accessible option. Pine represents the budget-friendly choice but demands frequent treatment and won’t last beyond 10-15 years. Cedar offers better longevity (up to 20 years) thanks to natural oils that resist moisture and rot, though it commands a premium price. Redwood falls between these extremes. Wood fences deliver aesthetic warmth but require ongoing maintenance.

Vinyl addresses durability concerns. More expensive upfront than wood, vinyl resists rot, warping, and corrosion while lasting significantly longer. Styling options are extensive—faux wood textures, solid colors, and various profiles appeal to different aesthetic preferences. Maintenance requirements drop substantially with proper installation.

Aluminum provides a lighter-duty alternative. It won’t rust and requires minimal upkeep, making it attractive for those prioritizing low maintenance over maximum privacy screening.

Board-on-board or shadowbox configurations blend aesthetics with functionality. Alternating boards create overlapping patterns visible from both sides, making this style particularly popular for 6-foot privacy fence installations. These can utilize wood, vinyl, or composite materials, though they’re technically a design approach rather than a material category. One caveat: slight gaps between boards mean side-angle viewing reveals interior space.

What Drives Installation Costs Higher

Several factors push expenses beyond the base per-linear-foot rate. Fences exceeding 6 feet in height typically add 25% to material costs, reflecting increased board quantities and potential special ordering. Complex perimeters with curves, angles, or landscape obstacles require more labor and customization.

Corner posts represent a disproportionate expense relative to standard fence sections. Projects with numerous corners cost more per foot than straight-line installations. Rocky or saturated soil conditions significantly increase labor hours. When ground preparation becomes difficult, hourly rates (averaging $35 per hour depending on location and contractor expertise) escalate project totals.

Removal of existing fences adds $3 to $5 per linear foot when replacement is necessary. Treated wood disposal carries additional environmental compliance costs in many states.

Strategic Cost Estimation and Contractor Selection

Obtaining multiple professional estimates prevents budget surprises. Calculate your baseline cost by multiplying per-foot material rates by your linear footage, then factor in gates and posts separately. This preliminary figure helps identify contractors whose quotes deviate significantly—either unreasonably low or suspiciously high.

Research material longevity alongside initial pricing. The cheapest option frequently yields poor long-term value when maintenance needs or premature replacement enter consideration. Matching fence style to existing home architecture maximizes property value perception.

Complications during installation—underground utilities, unexpected soil conditions, property line disputes—can alter final costs. Building contingency into your budget (10-15% above estimates) protects against these surprises. Professional installations mitigate risk compared to DIY approaches, particularly for projects exceeding standard configurations.

Common Questions About Privacy Fence Pricing

What’s the most affordable material choice? Pine wood starts at the lowest price point, though cedar and reclaimed materials offer interesting middle-ground options combining reasonable cost with acceptable durability. Some homeowners explore unconventional approaches like reclaimed wood or creative DIY solutions to reduce expenses.

How do I determine required fencing length? Precise perimeter measurement is non-negotiable. Measure each yard side, accounting for any angled or curved boundaries. Include calculations for corner posts and gate placement. Professional surveyors remove guesswork—a worthwhile investment relative to installation costs.

Is hiring a surveyor necessary? While not technically required, a surveyor’s $200-400 investment prevents costly legal complications. Incorrect measurements risk property line disputes and zoning violations that far exceed survey costs.

Should expense influence material decisions? Cost matters, but shouldn’t be the sole factor. A moderately priced vinyl fence lasting 25 years often delivers better value than budget wood requiring replacement within 15 years. Calculate true lifetime costs rather than focusing solely on installation expenditure.

For most homeowners, privacy fence installation represents a manageable home improvement project when approached systematically. Accurate measurements, material research, and competitive contractor bidding create a foundation for successful outcomes within budget.