People may remove an old fence or replace the existing fence to enhance privacy, security and aesthetics.
Fence removal applies to timber fences and other temporary fences. The new fence installation may use similar fencing materials as before or a more permanent option such as a standard brick fence. Rendered brick is stronger and more durable than ordinary brick fences and is best done by an experienced fence builder.
Different materials indeed have varying costs. Below is a list of prices for available products.
Fence material | Estimated price per metre |
|---|---|
Treated pine paling fence | $70 to $110 per metre |
Hardwood paling fence | $100 to $130 per metre |
1.5m Hardwood timber paling fence | $40 to $50 per metre |
1.8m Hardwood timber paling fence | $50 to $60 per metre |
Treated pine timber slat fence | $230 to $350 per metre |
Pre-primed treated pine fence | $300 per metre |
1.5m picket fence | $70 to $100 per metre |
1.8m picket fence | $80 to $120 per metre |
1.5m hardwood Merbau fence | $350 per metre |
Expect to pay $55 to $110 per metre for wood fence installation.
Replacing a fence can be a daunting task, but possible. You can deliver like the fencing contractors with the right tools and manual. The fencing job includes removing old wood fences and hardware, installation of new posts, rails and braces. However, the most challenging part would be setting the posts in concrete. And, so if you're uncomfortable doing that, you may hire a professional fence installer. If you do it yourself, you will minimise the fence installation costs, expect to spend considerable time and energy.
You'll need treated lumber (for the posts and horizontal rails), wire mesh or boards for panels (with sturdy bracing at the bottom), stakes to secure the substrate (soil) on slopes, nails or screws, fastener clips to attach wire mesh panels to wooden railings and lubricating oil.
First, decide the kind of privacy you want.
You may choose to install PVC fencing (picket fences), wrought iron (or cast iron fences), split rail fences, or other similar designs for a natural-looking style. These choices also make great pool fences.
If you prefer more privacy, you may consider Colorbond fencing or any other solid-panel fencing to separate your home from the neighbours.If you have a sloping site, ensure the bedding (soil) is prepared below the fence line so that the soil doesn't shift and cause dips in your finished fence.
If your soil is sandy or loose, reinforce each hole with a concrete foundation. First, mix up your quick-setting concrete (as per the directions), then place it in the bottom of each hole before setting the post. Then, pour just enough water into each hole for the concrete mix to hold its shape. Finally, tamp it down with a shovel.
When using treated lumber, ensure all cuts are above ground level to prevent contact with moisture. Next, fasten the horizontal rails to the posts using galvanised screws or nails while staggering the joints. This step prevents the rails from lining up from post to post. Finally, attach the last board at the top of the fence with a pair of hinges and attach a hasp on one side for locking your gate or pool fencing.
If you want a low fence cost, consider wire mesh fencing. To determine the length needed, mark your perimeter, then use a measuring tape. You can also add an extra 10 ft. to allow for gates, doors and errors. Determine your installation cost and the average fencing cost per metre with the information. You can then order just enough. If some sections fall short, contact your supplier about substituting a different type of wire mesh to compensate. Placing batter boards at corners and along fence lines helps to ensure even panels that fit without gaps. Attach the first section of fencing so that it is tight to the braced corner post, brace it with a length of treated lumber strung between your posts or by driving stakes into the ground at inside corners. Attach fastener clips every 10 ft. along the top rail for attaching wire mesh to wooden rails.
Secure metal fence clips to the bottom edge of each panel using screws or nails; space clips about 2-3 inches apart, making sure that they're not too close to the ground where children could get caught in them. Slide each fencing panel between the posts, ensuring that it's straight before tightening the screws or nails at the clips. If you're using a wooden railing, drilling pilot holes before driving screws will make the job easier. Finish up by oiling all treated lumber with a light coat of linseed oil to protect from moisture and decay. Replacing a fence can be a big job, but it can be done relatively quickly with suitable materials and some careful planning. Depending on your design and the condition of your current fence, expect to pay anywhere from $500-1,500 on materials alone. Also, factor in labour costs if you're hiring someone to do the work for you.
If your fence is in good condition but just needs a few boards replaced, then the fencing cost for repair will be cheaper than replacing it. However, if most of the fence needs replacement, a complete overhaul may be cheaper. The labour costs may also vary significantly among fence installers. And so, it's essential to get quotes from a few local fence contractors before making a decision. In most cases, it's cheaper to replace a fence than to repair it. Materials like wrought iron cost more during initial installation, but hardly require repairs.
Usually, you will not need to replace fence posts when replacing a fence, which saves much of your fencing costs. However, if the current posts are rotted or damaged, you will need to replace them. New posts will give better support to the new fence, but you should reinforce them with concrete foundation for a studier result. Replacement posts go for an average cost of $20 each and can be purchased at most hardware stores or lumberyards.
There is a wide array of fencing materials to choose from.
The fence installation cost and your tastes and needs will determine the appropriate backyard fence to install. For instance, timber fencing is usually less expensive than vinyl or wrought iron fencing, but it is also considered more aesthetic.However, if the previous wood fence was not appropriately maintained (i.e., not oiled regularly), you might choose painting over the replacement of the entire timber fencing.
The following are common fencing materials available.
Timber fence
Split rail fence
Pine paling fence
Brush panel fence
Vinyl fencing
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC fencing)
Frameless glass fencing
Sandstone and timber fence
Composite fencing
If you are unsure, our fencing specialists will advise you on fencing regulations, fence costs, where to get the fence builders (or fencing contractor), and the best fence option and guide you on how to install a fence.
Having an issue with a neighbour over fencing? Take a look at the laws in New South Wales regarding dividing fences and approaching the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal. Check if any laws applies to your area.