
A high-quality chain-link fence can solve many problems for homeowners. Maybe you want your pets or children to have a safe place to play, or perhaps you just want added privacy and an extra level of safety for your home.
Whatever the reason, it is important to understand the overall costs of buying and installing a chain-link fence before deciding to invest in one.
The two major factors to consider are the price of the fence itself and installation costs.
The Cost of a Chain-Link Fence
The price of a fence can vary depending on the company and brand. Chain-link fences are generally more affordable than other options, such as wood-fences, but that depends on height, length and other factors (such as the type of gate you select).
Chain-link fences are typically offered in heights ranging from 3 feet to 12 feet, and the higher the fence, the more expensive it will be. You also need to consider the size of the area you want fenced in.
If you have a large yard, for example, the cost could add up quickly.
To give you an idea of how to calculate your own costs, the average cost for one square foot of chain link fencing is $18. You want to avoid paying more than $21.33 per square foot of fence, and the cheapest price you can expect is about $16.65 per square foot depending on the company you purchase the fence materials from.
You also need to decide if you want standard galvanized chain-link or vinyl coated chain-link. The galvanized chain-link is generally cheaper.
However, the advantage of the vinyl coated chain-link is that the actual chain-link material is better protected, which helps to stave off rusting and other damage.
Labor and Installation Costs Can Vary Wildly
Many people make the mistake of falling in love with a new fence, thinking they have the money for it, and then buying it without considering labor costs.
Depending on the size of your fence, labor costs can actually be greater than the cost of the fence itself. Unless you’re planning on hauling and installing your new fence on your own, you’re going to have to pay for installation and labor as well.
Luckily, the average installation cost for a new fence in Delaware is slightly lower than the nationwide average. The average reported cost nationally is $1,796, while the average reported cost in Delaware is around $1,675.
Nationally, the lowest installation costs are around the $700 mark, while the highest installation costs are around $4,000.
The costs of installation make it tempting to find a nonprofessional to do the job at a cheaper price or to try to do it on your own, but it is best to consult an installation company or an independent contractor with experience installing chain-link fences.
You don’t want a fence that malfunctions due to installation mistakes as soon as you start using it. So before you buy that new fence, get price quotes from various companies and consult friends and family for reputable companies they recommend.
If you need help choosing a fence type, or you are wondering exactly how much it would cost to install your fence, you can contact us for an estimate.
We would be happy to talk you through your options and help you find a great fence for your yard.