How Much Does Composite Fencing Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $4,200 - $28,000
Composite fencing costs between $4,200 and $28,000, with a national average of $16,000. Taller and longer fences surpass the average.
Depending on the scope of your fencing, you can expect composite fence installation costs between $4,200 and $28,000. All the advantages of composite fencing have won you over, but now you're wondering how much the project will cost. Find out how everything from fence type, labor, and add-ons factor into the final price.
- Average
- $16,000
- Low end
- $3,200
- high end
- $35,000
Composite Fencing Cost Factors
Here are some factors to consider when estimating your fence installation costs. Before you get started, you may want to get a copy of your property survey and do a rough sketch of your ideal fence to help you figure out the scope of your project.
Fence Length
The easiest way to estimate your composite fencing cost is by determining the length of the fence you’re building. You can expect it to cost $11 to $45 per linear foot for both materials and labor.
| Fence Length (Linear Feet) | Cost Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 150 | $1,650–$6,750 | $4,200 |
| 200 | $2,200–$9,000 | $5,600 |
| 300 | $3,300–$13,500 | $8,400 |
| 500 | $5,500–$22,500 | $14,000 |
| 750 | $8,250–$33,750 | $21,000 |
| 1,000 | $11,000–$45,000 | $28,000 |
Fence Height
Another major factor is the height of your fence. This will come down to your privacy needs and whether you have children or pets that you want to keep inside the yard.
Generally speaking, the most affordable fences are shorter—3 to 4 feet tall—and range between $11 to $15 per linear foot. Standard fencing is 5 to 6 feet tall and costs $22 to $34 per linear foot. Meanwhile, fencing over 6 1/2 feet tall is $28 to $45 per linear foot.
| Fence Height (Feet) | Cost Range per Linear Foot (Including Labor) | Cost for 100 Feet of Fencing |
|---|---|---|
| 3–4 | $11–$15 | $1,100–$1,500 |
| 5–6 | $22–$34 | $2,200–$3,400 |
| 6.5–8 | $28–$45 | $2,800–$4,500 |
Fence Type
Because there are so many options, it can be hard to know the best fence type for your home. Just so you don’t get overwhelmed, it’s best to start by thinking about why you need a fence. If you want a fence for privacy so you can enjoy your pool in peace, you’re likely to opt for a tall, privacy fence.
On the other hand, you may not mind your neighbors but simply want a decorative way to mark your property line; in which case, an elegant picket fence may do the trick. Either way, expect to pay more for a privacy fence than a picket fence.
Frame Type
Different frame types offer different visual aesthetics and varying amounts of privacy. Some common options include shadow box, basket weave, and scalloped. These different frame types are generally similar in price and range around $22 to $34 per linear foot with labor.
Labor
Fence installation labor costs between $10 and $30 per linear foot. Some companies may quote by the hour, which comes out to around $20 to $60 per hour. Depending on your yard size and fencing needs, you can expect workers to complete the job in about two to three days.
Cost of Composite Fencing by Type
You’ve decided on a composite fence, but have you decided on the exact type that you want? Here are the main types you should consider for your project as you estimate your composite fence prices.
| Type of Composite Fencing | Average Cost (Per Linear Foot) |
|---|---|
| Picket fencing | $11–$15 |
| Privacy fencing | $22–$34 |
| Premium fencing | $28–$45 |
Picket Fencing
Picket fencing costs $11 to $15 per linear foot for materials and labor. These fences are usually 3 to 4 feet tall and are the most affordable option. It’s a good choice if you want to keep your pets and kids inside the yard while also enjoying the views.
Privacy Fencing
A privacy fence stands at 6 feet tall and costs $22 to $34 per linear foot with labor. These fences offer just the right amount of privacy for most people. However, if you want even more privacy, you can spring for 6 ½- to 7-foot tall fencing, which can cost as much as $45 per linear foot.
Premium Fencing
Premium fencing costs $28 to $45 per linear foot with labor. This fencing may be made of premium materials and offered by a high-end fencing company. It may also be a specific style of fencing, like lattice fencing.
Lattice fencing is typically taller than regular types of fencing and can be around 8 feet in height. These have a lattice design and are typically used for gardens and keeping wildlife out. This option is on the higher end of the price range and is $50 to $180 per linear foot, depending on the thickness.
Cost of Installing a Composite Fence Yourself
If you decide to take on DIY composite fence installation, you’ll only need to account for the materials. The actual cost varies depending on the material quality and fence type, but you can typically expect to pay anywhere between $9 and $45 per linear foot.
However, there’s a lot more to the job than just paying for the materials. You need to figure out your fence layout, whether you will use expanding foam vs. concrete fence posts, and even potentially recruit some strong family and friends to help you get the job done.
DIY Composite Fencing Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
DIYing your composite fencing installation is possible if you are willing to put in the work. From planning out the fence line, securing permits, digging postholes, and installing the fence, many details need to be taken care of.
For the best results, you should hire a fence company near you to do the job. A properly installed fence will have the best life span and visual impact.
Costs of Common Composite Fencing Add-Ons
Consider these additional factors when estimating your project costs. These extras can help bring your exact vision to life.
| Composite Fencing Add-Ons | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Decorative panels with cutouts | $25–$30 per linear foot |
| Mixed-materials fence | $90 per linear foot |
| Composite gate | $200–$400 with labor |
| Drive-through gate | $600+ |
Ornate Features
Regular fencing is great, but for some people, opting for decorative composite fencing will help their home stand out from the rest.
One option is decorative panels with cutouts. These can act as an accent piece, or you can use them for the entire perimeter of your yard. This feature costs $25 to $30 per linear foot for materials only.
You might also opt for a mixed-materials fence, like a composite fence with a lattice aluminum top. They have a very modern look and cost $90 per linear foot for materials.
Adding a Gate
Decide if you want a gate before starting your fencing project. For practical reasons, it can be advantageous to install at least one so you have easy access to the fenced area.
If you decide to install a composite gate, it costs $200 to $400 with labor. If you want the gate on your driveway, drive-through gates are $600 or more.
How to Save on Composite Fencing Costs
The easiest way to save on composite fencing costs is to opt for a picket fence. Besides choosing a more affordable fence type, you should shop around for a few different quotes.
You can also install your fence during the off-season for the best labor rates. Fence companies will likely have more time in the winter and fall months and maybe early spring. This varies depending on your local climate, as it’s best to avoid fence installation in the rain.
Although installing a fence in the cold might initially seem unappealing, there are many reasons to jump-start your fence installation project. From getting the job done quickly to protecting your landscaping, getting the project done in the off-season can have many advantages.
Frequently Asked Questions
The up-front costs of composite fencing are more expensive than wood. On average, wood fences cost $15 per linear foot, while composite fences cost $28 or more per linear foot. However, if you consider the life span of both types of fencing, composite can be a better bang for your buck. Composite fences can last 20 to 30 years, while wood fences last 10 to 20 years.
There are many pros and cons to vinyl and composite fencing. Both fencing types offer longer life spans than wood fencing, with some notable advantages. Whether one is better for you will depend on a few factors. Composite is better if you prefer recycled materials, while vinyl is extremely easy to clean.
Also, consider the disadvantages: vinyl can be more expensive, while composite fencing fades during the first six months.
One of the best parts of composite fences is their long life span. You can expect your composite fence to last 20 to 30 years. It lasts long because it consists of recycled plastic and wood fibers. The plastic offers durability that wood alone can’t provide. It’s mold- and rot-resistant, as well as weather-resistant.
Yes, you can expect your composite fencing to fade quickly in the first six months. It happens naturally because the wood oils in the fencing material, called tannins, bleed out. Because of this, it can help to get a color chart from your fence company which should show you the color of your fence before it fades and after it fades.
Maintaining a composite fence is pretty straightforward, as it doesn’t require staining or repainting. To keep it clean, scrub the fencing with a composite deck cleaner or hot, soapy water. Use a soft-bristle brush for the best results, and avoid using pressure washers or sanders. Plan to clean your fence at least twice a year. Scrubbing the fencing in the fall and spring can help prevent mold and mildew growth.