Cost to Install Fence per Foot Calculator

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Cost to Install Fence Per Foot Calculator
Calculate Total Project Cost
Results:
function calculateFence(){var len=parseFloat(document.getElementById('length').value);var mat=parseFloat(document.getElementById('material').value);var lab=parseFloat(document.getElementById('labor').value);var gates=parseFloat(document.getElementById('gates').value);var gp=parseFloat(document.getElementById('gateprice').value);var showSteps=document.getElementById('steps').checked;if(isNaN(len)||isNaN(mat)||isNaN(lab)||isNaN(gates)||isNaN(gp)){alert('Please enter valid numerical values for all fields.');return;}var totalMatLab=(mat+lab)*len;var totalGates=gates*gp;var totalCost=totalMatLab+totalGates;var avgPerFoot=totalCost/len;document.getElementById('summaryResult').innerHTML='Total Estimated Cost: $'+totalCost.toLocaleString(undefined,{minimumFractionDigits:2,maximumFractionDigits:2});var breakHTML='Average Cost Per Foot: $'+avgPerFoot.toFixed(2);if(showSteps){breakHTML+='
';breakHTML+='Calculation Breakdown:
';breakHTML+='- Fence Run ('+len+' ft @ $'+(mat+lab).toFixed(2)+'/ft): $'+totalMatLab.toLocaleString()+'
';breakHTML+='- Gates ('+gates+' @ $'+gp.toLocaleString()+' ea): $'+totalGates.toLocaleString()+'
';breakHTML+='- Total: $'+totalCost.toLocaleString()+'';}document.getElementById('breakdownResult').innerHTML=breakHTML;}

Using the Cost to Install Fence Per Foot Calculator

Estimating the total expense of a new fencing project can be complex. This cost to install fence per foot calculator simplifies the process by combining material costs, professional labor rates, and hardware expenses into a single, easy-to-read estimate. Whether you are installing a classic wood picket fence or a modern vinyl privacy screen, knowing your per-foot cost helps you stay within budget.

To get the most accurate result, you will need to provide the following inputs:

Fence Length (Linear Feet)
The total distance the fence will cover. Measure the perimeter of the area you intend to enclose.
Material Cost ($ per foot)
The price of the fencing panels or pickets, posts, and rails divided by the total length.
Labor Cost ($ per foot)
The rate charged by contractors to install the fence. Professional labor typically ranges from $5 to $15 per foot depending on terrain.
Gates and Extras
The quantity and individual price of gates. Gates require extra hardware and framing, significantly increasing the total project cost.

How It Works: The Fencing Formula

The calculator uses a straightforward additive formula to determine the final project cost. By separating linear costs from fixed costs (like gates), it provides a clearer picture of where your money is going.

Total Cost = [Length × (Material Cost + Labor Cost)] + (Number of Gates × Price Per Gate)

  • Linear Costs: These scale with the size of your yard (Panels, posts, concrete, labor).
  • Fixed Costs: These are one-time charges per unit (Walk-through gates, driveway gates).
  • Average Per Foot: This is the total cost divided by the total length, which is the most common metric used for contractor quotes.

Calculation Example

Example: A homeowner wants to install 200 linear feet of cedar privacy fencing with two matching gates.

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Length: 200 feet
  2. Material Cost: $15.00 per foot
  3. Labor Cost: $10.00 per foot
  4. Gates: 2 gates at $300.00 each
  5. Calculate Linear Cost: 200 × ($15 + $10) = $5,000
  6. Calculate Gate Cost: 2 × $300 = $600
  7. Total Project Cost: $5,000 + $600 = $5,600
  8. Average Cost Per Foot: $5,600 / 200 = $28.00/ft

Common Questions

What is the cheapest fence to install per foot?

Generally, chain-link and treated pine are the most affordable options. Chain-link materials often cost between $5 and $12 per foot, while labor is relatively quick compared to heavy stone or custom wood installations.

Does the cost per foot include the removal of an old fence?

Usually, no. Contractors typically charge a separate "tear-out and haul-away" fee, which can range from $3 to $8 per linear foot. If you are replacing an existing fence, remember to add this to your labor calculation or use the "Show Detailed Breakdown" feature to track additional costs.

How much do gates affect the cost per foot?

Gates are the most expensive part of a fence per linear inch. Adding multiple gates can significantly inflate the average "cost per foot" metric even if the panel prices remain low. Always calculate gates separately to ensure your material estimates remain accurate.

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