Chain-link vs. wood fence cost
Chain-link vs. wood fence cost
$10 – $40 average cost per linear foot (chain-link)
$15 – $50 average cost per linear foot (wood)
Chain-link vs. wood fence cost
A chain-link fence costs $10 to $40 per linear foot or $2,000 to $8,000 total for a 200-foot fence. In comparison, a wood fence costs $15 to $50 per linear foot or $3,000 to $10,000 for 200 feet, depending on the wood species and fence style. Chain-link fences are more economical, but they lack the aesthetic quality of natural wood.
| Factor | Chain-link fence | Wood fence |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per linear foot | $10 – $40 | $15 – $50 |
| Average total cost (200 feet) | $2,000 – $8,000 | $3,000 – $10,000 |
Chain-link fence installation
Chain-link fence installation costs $10 to $40 per linear foot, including the materials and labor. These fences are known for being cost-effective and low maintenance. However, the total cost varies based on several factors:
Material gauge: Lower-gauge (thicker) wire costs more but lasts longer.
Fence height: Taller fences use more material, raising your price per foot.
Coating: Vinyl coatings increase the price but improve lifespan and appearance.
Mesh size: Smaller mesh sizes boost security but can double or triple the price.
Installation complexity: Sloped yards, obstacles, or rocky terrain can drive up labor costs.
Extras: Privacy slats, colored coatings, and gates are add-ons that raise your overall cost.
Professional installers can complete most residential projects within 1 to 3 days, depending on property size and terrain. The installation process includes setting posts in concrete, stretching mesh panels, and securing all hardware.
Wood fence installation
Wood fencing is beloved for its classic look but almost always carries a higher price tag, with prices ranging from $15 to $50 per linear foot, depending on the style you choose. The complexity of measuring, cutting, and aligning boards increases both labor costs and project duration significantly compared to chain-link fences.
| Fence style | Cost per linear foot installed |
|---|---|
| Privacy fence cost | $25 – $50 |
| Picket fence cost | $20 – $40 |
| Split rail fence cost | $15 – $35 |
Several factors in addition to the style affect the price you'll pay for a wood fence:
Wood type: Pine and spruce are more affordable; cedar, oak, and redwood are pricier but more durable.
Fence height: Taller fences require more material, increasing costs.
Finish: Staining or painting adds to the overall budget.
Gate costs: Walk and drive gates increase the total cost.
Add-ons: Decorative post caps, lattice tops, and extra treatments raise expenses.
Maintenance cost of chain-link vs. wood fence
Maintenance costs can significantly impact your long-term investment over the fence's lifespan. Knowing the ongoing expenses of each fence type can help you calculate the true cost of ownership.
Chain-link fence maintenance
Chain-link fences require minimal maintenance throughout their service life. Annual upkeep costs range from $50 to $200 for most residential properties, making them extremely cost-effective long-term investments. Galvanized and vinyl-coated options resist corrosion better, reducing maintenance frequency and costs even further.
Basic maintenance includes occasional cleaning with soap and water, rust spot treatment, and hardware inspection.
Wood fence maintenance
Wood fences demand regular attention to maintain their appearance and structural integrity. Annual maintenance costs average $2 to $6 per linear foot, depending on climate conditions and material quality. Wood fence repair costs $150 to $500+, depending on the damage.
Essential maintenance includes staining or sealing every 2 to 3 years, replacing damaged boards, and tightening loose hardware. Pressure washing, pest treatment, and weatherproofing also add to ongoing expenses throughout the fence's lifespan.
Bottom line: If you're looking for a fence with the lowest possible ongoing costs, chain-link is the best bet.
Lifespan and long-term cost considerations
A fence's longevity directly affects your cost per year of ownership:
Chain-link fence lifespan
Quality chain-link fences last 15 to 20 years with minimal care. Vinyl-coated versions often exceed 20 years, while galvanized steel options provide reliable service for 15 to 18+ years in most climates.
Replacement becomes necessary when posts weaken from ground movement or when extensive rust compromises structural integrity. The lower replacement cost makes chain-link financially attractive for properties requiring long-term perimeter security.
Wood fence lifespan
Wood fence lifespans vary anywhere from 15 to 50+ years depending on the wood type, installation quality, and how well you maintain the fence. Pressure-treated lumber lasts 10 to 15 years, while cedar and redwood can last 25+ years with proper care.
The table below shows the average lifespan of various fences based on the wood type.
| Wood type | Average lifespan (years) |
|---|---|
| Pine | 5 – 10+ |
| Spruce | 5 – 10 |
| Oak | 15 – 20 |
| Plain white cedar | 15 – 20 |
| Western red cedar | 15 – 25+ |
| Cypress | 20 – 25 |
| Composite | 25 – 30+ |
| Black locust wood | 25 – 30+ |
| Redwood | 25 – 35 |
| Tropical hardwoods | 30 – 50 |
Climate also significantly affects wood's durability. Humid conditions accelerate rot and insect damage, while extreme temperature swings can cause cracking and warping.
Poor maintenance can reduce a wood fence's lifespan by 30% to 50%.
What affects fence costs the most?
Whether you choose chain-link or wood fencing, several major factors influence how much you'll spend:
Location: Prices fluctuate based on local demand, available contractors, and material availability.
Fence length: The longer the fence, the higher the price (regardless of material).
Height: Taller fences for privacy or security push costs up.
Terrain: Slopes, rocks, or tree roots complicate installation and affect labor charges.
Add-ons and gates: Walk-through or drive gates, privacy options, or specialty coatings add to total costs.
Pros and cons beyond cost
While price matters, there are other features to consider before making your decision. The table below shows a side-by-side comparison to help you clarify the trade-offs and prioritize what matters most for your yard, style, and budget.
| Feature | Chain-link fence | Wood fence |
|---|---|---|
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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When chain-link makes financial sense
Chain-link fencing provides excellent value for specific property types and applications. For example, the lower per-foot costs translate into substantial savings when enclosing large perimeters or several acres. Chain-link fences also work well for security-focused applications, including:
Commercial and industrial properties
Dog runs and pet or livestock containment areas
Pool safety barriers to meet code requirements
Temporary construction site boundaries
Sports courts and recreational facilities
When wood fencing justifies higher costs
Wood fences provide value through enhanced privacy, aesthetics, and potential property value increases. The additional investment makes sense when it aligns with your neighborhood's standards or your priorities for appearance and functionality.
HOA compliance: Many homeowners associations require wood materials for neighborhood aesthetic consistency.
Complete privacy: Solid construction blocks sight lines and creates intimate outdoor spaces.
Noise reduction: Dense wood materials significantly reduce sound transmission from busy streets.
Entertaining and outdoor living: Wood creates an attractive backdrop for patios, gardens, and social spaces.
Wind protection: Solid panels provide effective windbreaks for gardens and outdoor areas.
Street-facing boundaries: Enhanced appearance matters most for highly visible front yard applications.
Customization: With their color and design flexibility, wood fences can match existing structures and complement architectural styles.
Property value: Attractive fencing increases curb appeal and marketability in residential areas.
Getting estimates from fence installers
Whether you decide on chain-link or wood, follow these guidelines to help you find a qualified fence installation contractor near you:
Request quotes from at least three licensed contractors to compare pricing, approaches, and professionalism levels.
Provide identical specifications to each contractor (linear footage, height requirements, gate locations, and special circumstances) to ensure accurate comparisons.
Ask for detailed written estimates that break down material costs, labor charges, permits, and any additional fees.
Verify their licensing and insurance coverage before allowing them on your property for measurements.
Ask for recent customer references, read reviews on HomeGuide and Google, and view completed projects in your area when possible.
Confirm what's included in quoted prices, such as cleanup, debris removal, and warranty coverage.
Avoid contractors demanding large upfront payments before starting work.
Questions to ask a fence contractor
Asking potential fence installers the following questions will reveal important details about quality, timeline, and warranty coverage to help you make an informed decision:
What's included in your quoted price?
How long will the installation take from start to finish?
What warranty do you provide on materials and workmanship?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for fence installation work?
Can you provide references from recent customers in my area?
What happens if we encounter unexpected soil conditions or obstacles?
Do you handle permit applications or is that my responsibility?
What payment schedule do you require throughout the project?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.