How much does fencing cost? [2024]

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How much will fencing contractors cost me?

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How much does a fence cost?

How much does fencing cost? The average cost of a fence in Australia is $2,500 to $3,000. You can expect to pay about $75 to $300 per metre, depending on the type of fencing material you choose.

Fence installation is a big decision. Not only do you want to make sure you choose a quality fence to suit your budget, but you’ll want it to be aesthetically pleasing too. Especially if you’ll be looking at it every day.

When getting a fence installed, you’ll have to consider the material you prefer, the cost per metre, price for installation, and the location of the fence. Whether it’s PVC, Colorbond, picket fencing, or any other option to suit exactly what you want for your property, there are fencing specialists that can help.

For a new fence or an update of your old fence, fencing costs differ wildly based on the materials used and the fencing contractors you hire. In this guide, we explore:

What factors affect fencing cost?
Fencing prices for different materials
Labour costs
How get quotes from fence contractors for your fencing job, and more.

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What factors affect the cost of fencing?

There are several factors that can affect the cost of fencing in Australia, including:

Type of fencing material: For example, a timber fence will typically be less expensive than a steel fence
Size of the area
Labour rates
Location: Prices are usually higher in urban areas compared to rural areas
Accessibility: A hard to access site can increase the cost of the project as it may take longer and require special equipment
Whether you need to remove an existing fence first.

Types of fence materials

There are plenty of common fencing materials available to suit any budget. Materials used for fencing work include aluminium, wood, wood composite, PVC, wrought iron, chain link, bamboo, Colorbond, and even electric fencing for farms and rural areas.

The average price will vary based on the material you choose and also the number of metres you require. If you’re on a sloping block or the land is difficult to install fencing, other factors determine the price, such as the increase in labour cost for the extra hours it takes to do the job.

No matter which material you choose, ensure it’s suitable for your environment and ideally won’t need replacing in the lifetime of owning your home.

How much does fencing cost per metre?

How much does a fence cost? Ultimately, the type of fence you decide on will dictate the cost of fencing per metre. Some people opt for a DIY fence installation, while others need a professional fence builder to ensure the job is done safely and securely.

The average cost of fencing in Australia is between $2,500 and $3,000, or about $75 to $300 per metre, depending on materials.

Here are some average fencing costs for different jobs:

Installing a new fence: $2,100 – $3,900
Replacing a damaged existing fence: $1,600 – $3,100
Repairing an old fence: $750 – $1,500

For different fence types, expect to pay:

Timber treated pine paling fence cost – $75 to $125 per metre (slat timber from $280 per metre)
PVC fence cost – $50 to $90 per metre
Hardwood fence cost – $80 to $150 per metre
Colorbond fencing cost – $75 to $120 per metre
Semi-frameless glass fence cost – $200 to $275 per lineal metre
Frameless glass fence cost – $200 to $600 per lineal metre
Brick or block fence cost – $550 to $800 per metre
Wrought iron fence cost – $450 to $600 per metre
Rendered brick and steel fence cost – $750 to $1,000 per metre.

The most expensive materials tend to be glass and Colorbond fences, while pine paling offers an affordable option.

Installation is often included in these prices but not always, so it’s best to check with your contractor. The amount of work required on an install can quickly pile up and substantially affect the installation costs.

With your fencing project, always budget for installation and any ongoing updates or maintenance that may be required. Average fencing labour costs are about $50 per hour.

Also consider the costs associated with an old fence removal, the height of the fence you require, and whether you need gates, painting or a concrete foundation. For the most accurate fencing cost estimate, compare a few quotes from fencing contractors in your local area.

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fencing prices australia

How much does Colorbond fencing cost?

A fence made from metal or aluminium is well-suited to the harsh climates in Australia, and will ensure your property is safe and secure. Standard Colorbond fencing panels are usually 1.8 metres high and 2.4 metres wide, and cost about $70 to $200 per panel. For Colorbond fencing installation, it’s best to talk to a specialist for an accurate quote.

The one issue about a steel fence or Colorbond fence panels to consider is that you can get dents in the panels, which can show up quite easily and are difficult to remove.

Timber fencing

Timber fences are decorative and can be an affordable option, while standing the test of time. You can opt for picket fences or a heartier timber slat fence that keeps children and pets contained.

Timber requires maintenance though, and if you’re in an area prone to termites you might need to explore a more sturdy and long-wearing option.

Timber fence

A hardwood paling fence needs to be taken care of carefully in order to maximise the lifetime of the material. You will also need to factor in painting or staining of the fence into your costs. Depending on the species of the tree the wood comes from, a hardwood timber fence can last anywhere from 4 to 30 years.

Treated pine paling fence

Pine is much cheaper than hardwoods like yellow cedar. However, this option is not as durable and long-lasting, so you may not be saving yourself money in the long run.

Brick fence

Most brick fences seem like a sturdy and permanent option, but it can be costly to install. You can choose rendered brick to match your home and provide a sophisticated look or opt for a standard brick fence, which won’t cost as much.

PVC fence

PVC fencing is an extremely durable and long-wearing product that won’t weather like timber and is virtually maintenance-free. It’s cost effective and comes in a range of different styles and colours. The colour, texture and quality of the material you choose for your vinyl fencing will affect the overall price you pay.

Glass fence

When you’re fencing around a pool area, you usually need a different type of fence than you would for the perimeter of your home or property. Ideal for pool fences or balcony balustrades, a glass fence keeps those water views front and centre. There are higher costs associated with semi-frameless or frameless glass fencing, but it’s usually worth the cost.

There are fencing regulations and local laws to adhere to when it comes to pool fencing, in order to prevent drowning. This includes:

Fence height and gate: At least 1.2 metres tall
Gap between vertical pickets: No more than 100 millimetres
No climbable objects or structures: Within 900 millimetres of fencing
All gates and fences to have a child safety lock

Wrought iron fence

For an ornate material that makes great entrances to a home or property, wrought iron fencing will stand out from the road. You might have to pay a little more for this decorative option as installation is likely higher due to the amount of work involved with this style.

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Yellow Pages how much does fencing cost per metre

Making your choice

If you need to keep your dogs or pets fenced-in, a post and rail style fence won’t do the trick. If you want to keep an open and fluid feel to your garden, you’ll need a fencing material that won’t feel claustrophobic.

Choosing your fencing material is not an easy task. Do your research and have a look at all the materials. You’ll want to make sure the look of the fence matches your property or building. You can choose colours, styles and finishes that complement your homes and that will blend in seamlessly with its surrounds.

All of the fencing materials listed will come with their own unique set of care steps. Consider where you live to make sure the material you choose is suitable for the environment.

If you’re erecting a dividing fence, some states have regulations about what is permitted. It’s important to investigate the guidelines on your local council website or speak to a council representative in your area.

Getting fencing cost quotes

Still wondering how much does fencing cost? Like any trade, fencing is a competitive industry. To get a clear idea of your project costs, compare multiple quotes from local fencing experts. Ask for recommendations in your local area. You can drive around to look at fences and see what suits your style, budget and needs.

To find out more, or to get a quote, get in touch with a local fencing specialist today.