Wood Privacy Fence Installation Cost in 2026: What to Expect

Wood choice is the biggest material cost driver. Spruce and pressure-treated pine run $18-$27 per linear foot installed and last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Cedar costs $25-$35 per linear foot and naturally resists rot for 20-30 years. Redwood is the premium option at $35-$50 per linear foot for standard grades, with premium heartwood redwood pushing $70-$120 per linear foot. For 150 linear feet, the difference between pine and cedar alone is $1,000-$1,200.

Standard 6ft privacy fences are the most common and cost-effective height. Stepping up to 8ft adds 25-35% to your total cost because you need longer posts, more pickets, and an additional horizontal rail. Some municipalities cap residential fence height at 6ft without a variance, so check local codes before planning an 8ft fence.

A basic flat-top privacy fence is the most affordable. Board-on-board (overlapping pickets) uses 30% more lumber but looks better from both sides. Shadowbox style alternates pickets for airflow and a finished look on both sides. Horizontal plank fences are trendy but require more precise carpentry and often cost 15-25% more than vertical styles.

Flat, clear ground is the easiest and cheapest to fence. Slopes require either stepped panels (more posts, more labor) or racked panels that follow the grade. Rocky soil makes post-hole digging significantly harder. Tree roots, existing concrete, or utility lines can all add time and cost to the installation.

Each standard walk-through gate adds $200-$400 to the project. Double-wide gates for equipment or vehicle access run $400-$600. Custom gates with arched tops or decorative hardware push higher. Most residential fences need 1-2 gates, which adds $200-$1,200 to the total.

“Will you call 811 for utility marking before digging?”

Why this matters: Hitting a buried gas, water, or electric line is dangerous and expensive. Professional fence installers should always verify utility locations before digging post holes.

“How deep will you set the posts, and will you use concrete?”

Why this matters: Posts should be buried at least 2 feet for a 6ft fence, set in concrete. Some installers skip concrete to save time, but it significantly reduces fence longevity.

“Does your quote include removing the old fence?”

Why this matters: Old fence removal and disposal can add $3-$5 per linear foot. Make sure it's clear whether this is included or a separate charge.

“What grade of lumber will you use?”

Why this matters: There's a big quality range within each wood species. #1 grade cedar looks and performs much better than #2 or #3 grade. Make sure the quote specifies lumber grade.

“How do you handle property line disputes?”

Why this matters: A fence built even a few inches over the property line can become a legal headache. Professional installers should ask for a survey or set the fence 2-4 inches inside your property line.

“Do you warranty your work against leaning posts?”

Why this matters: Post failure is the most common fence problem. A good installer will warranty their post-setting work for at least 1-2 years.

“What's your payment structure?”

Why this matters: Avoid paying more than 30% upfront for materials. The balance should be due upon completion and your satisfaction with the work.