If you are looking for cheap fencing costs, your best bet is to install a metal mesh fence.

For different fence types, expect to pay the following costs per metre.

Type of fence

Estimated price per metre

Timber treated pine paling fence

$50 to $120

PVC fencing

$70 to $80

Hardwood paling fence

$100 to $150

Colorbond fencing

$70 to $170

Semi-frameless glass fence

$200 to $300

Frameless glass fencing

$700 to $1200

Brick fence

$500 to $1000

Wrought iron fencing

$500 to $700

What are the different types of fences?

Take a look below at some popular fencing designs.

Picket fence

The classic picket fencing has horizontal slats fastened to upright supports. Styles vary from simple, elegant, traditional designs enhanced with top-quality paint or stain to crisp, contemporary colours that work well with modern architecture such as sandstone and timber fence. It is fairly similar to a paling fence.

Palisade fence

Palisades are similar to picket fences but have sturdier uprights support beams made out of steel posts finished in white enamel paint for easier fence removal. Palisade fences are more economical than solid timber fences or vinyl privacy fences. They have less common fencing materials and don't require the same amount of foundation preparation as other styles such as a colorbond fence or a standard brick fence.

Vinyl privacy fencing

Vinyl privacy fencing, also known as PVC fencing, creates a high barrier between your backyard and property without compromising style. Vinyl fencing is available in a wide selection of colours, styles, heights, and decorative elements to suit the aesthetics of your home while providing privacy for you and your family.

Solid wood fencing/timber fence

Solid wood fencing or timber fences not only look beautiful but also perform well outside with reduced costs of timber fence installation. Traditional designs are enhanced with top-quality paint or stain that extends the life of the timber fence while adding colour to your yard. Other types of solid wood fences include board on board (boards placed horizontally), rustic logs, or split rail-style fences (square logs stacked flat).

Slatted fence

Slat fences are similar to picket fences with slats mounted onto upright supports made of steel posts finished in white enamel paint. Slat fencing is more economical than solid wood or vinyl privacy fences because it has less material and doesn't require the same amount of concrete foundation preparation as other styles that may need professional fence builders, as in sandstone and timber fence.

Chain link

Chain link fencing offers a range of benefits including durability, affordability, and safety. It's easy to clean and maintain, resists rusting and will keep your lawn intact. Plus, there are a wide variety of heights and colours available to complement your home design.

Brick fence

Brick fencing, made from kiln-fired bricks, gives homeowners the look of stone at a fraction of its price. The wide variety available in modern colours also goes well with contemporary architecture.

Chain link mesh

Chain link mesh fencing offers sturdy construction and dependable strength for medium-to-heavy security needs. Mesh fencing comes in galvanized or non-galvanised steel wire (the latter will require regular repainting), with various heights depending on your requirements.

How do I estimate the cost of a fence?

Here are a few tips to determine how much fencing costs.

  • Determine the type of fence you need (wood, block, brick, metal, steel fence, frameless glass fence, etc.) For instance, the treated pine paling fence will be slightly expensive and require higher labour costs.

  • Estimate the number of meters you require to calculate the average fencing costs to complete your fencing job.

  • Add a metre or two for wastage and damages. You can also hire extra materials such as rendered brick if needed to complete the fencing project from fencing specialists.

  • For metal fencing, add an average fence cost of $5 per metre for paint. For block,colorbond fences, PVC fences, and most brick fences add extra time as it needs more work with chisels and hammers than post-forming wooden planks into panelled sections. If there are no posts on both ends of your fence line, you will need yellow cedar, rail corners, and bracing posts. Colorbond fencing costs are higher than other styles.

How long does it take to install a fence?

The time required will vary depending on the type of fencing material you have selected and its size in a square metre. Some fence materials can be installed in under two hours, whereas others may need extensive planning by fence contractors, groundwork, and concrete services before fence installation begins.

What is included when I purchase my fence?

With every new fence installed, we provide all new custom-made fencing panels; posts; caps; rails; struts, or bracing depending on the type of fence selected; brackets (if required); hardware (gate hooks, latches, etc.); gate kit if required (fully assembled); posts (if needed); and complete instructions.

What is the cheapest fence to install?

If you are looking for cheap fencing costs, your best bet is to install a metal mesh fence or wrought iron fence as it does not require foundation work and posts like block or brick wall fencing. There is also no need to engage fencing contractors to divide the wall. All you need to do with metal fencing is make sure that the ground has been levelled and compacted before beginning the fencing installation process. You may need to apply quality paint every 3-5 years for metal fencing or wrought iron fence, increasing labour costs.

What are the factors that affect the cost of fencing?

Many factors will affect the cost of your fence, including the below.

Length of fencing

Generally, the shorter the length, the less the fence cost. However, longer fences require more materials and time to construct, increasing installation prices.

How straight is my boundary line?

If your boundary line has some twists and turns or curves due to its shape, you'll need to factor this on top of your overall fencing needs. This will add more material costs, so adjust accordingly when receiving a price quote from your contractor that could help answer questions like how much does colorbond fencing cost and how much does it cost to use alternative materials.

Permits from local laws

You may be required by your local council or municipal body to obtain a permit before carrying out any fencing project on your property for safety reasons as needed for the fencing regulations. Ensure you factor this into your fencing prices budget when receiving a quote from your contractors.

Extras

There are some extra installation costs that may pop up along the way, which include scaffolding for tall fencing jobs, old fence removal of damaged existing fence or structures or posts on your property, and additional materials. Make sure you're aware of all these extras to expect before finalizing any price quotes.

How long will my new fence last?

The following factors determine how long your fence lasts.

Quality of fencing materials

Make sure you select the best quality fencing materials to ensure it stands the test of time and is extremely durable. If planning on installing a metal mesh or wrought iron fence, make sure there is adequate structural support and robust fixings to carry its weight before installation or fencing work begins.

Installation process

A professional job with the correct tools and methods will help prolong the life of your new fence. Ensure your contractor or fence builder is using state-of-the-art equipment during every step in the installation process for optimum results.

Location

Extreme weather conditions such as excessive rain and extreme heat can have an effect on the durability of your timber fencing, if not installed and maintained correctly. Make sure you pick the right treated pine slat fence for your location and climate conditions to ensure longevity is not compromised.

Harsh weather

If you are looking to install wooden, timber fences, colorbond fences, colorbond gates, or block fencing material, make sure it's resistant to rotting, insect infestation, or decay. It would be best to consider painting it with an exterior protective varnish on the vertical pickets every 2-3 years, depending on its location. It can be challenging to maintain fencing materials in areas exposed to harsh climates all year round.

Interested in more about fence installation? The NSW Department of Fair Trading has a handy guide to fencing licences and certificates. Check to see if any legalities apply to your local area.