Fencing service costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
Professional shadowbox fence installation costs $2,700 to $5,800 for your complete project, with most homeowners spending around $2,800 total.
Your material choice, fence height, and total length shape your budget, and maintenance needs differ between wood, vinyl, and composite options.
Plan for old fence removal, land leveling, permits, and gates that add $150 to $2,000 each to your project budget.
Hiring a local fencing professional ensures your shadowbox fence goes up straight and sturdy and saves you time and labor.
In 2026, the national average cost for shadowbox fence installation is $2,800. Most homeowners pay between $2,700 and $5,800, with the total depending on the fence's length, material, and height. Gates, permits, and old fence removal can each add $150 to $2,000 to your overall budget.
While you can install siding yourself, we recommend contacting a pro. Improper installation can decrease the lifespan of the siding and cost more money in the long run.
Shadowbox fences cost $10 to $40 per linear foot depending on the material and other project factors. The table below shows how total cost scales with shadowbox fence length:
| Fence Size (Linear Feet) | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| 100 | $1,000–$4,000 |
| 200 | $2,000–$8,000 |
| 300 | $3,000–$12,000 |
| 400 | $4,000–$16,000 |
| 500 | $5,000–$20,000 |
Your choice of material is one of the biggest cost drivers for a shadowbox fence, with prices ranging from $10 to $15 per linear foot for treated lumber on the low end to $27 to $40 per linear foot for vinyl on the high end. Mid-range options include cedar, redwood, cypress, and composite. Here’s how shadowbox fence costs and characteristics break down by material.
A treated lumber shadowbox fence costs between $10 and $15 per linear foot installed, making it the most budget-friendly option. While treated lumber typically lasts 10 to 15 years, you'll need to invest time in regular maintenance, including sealing and staining every two to three years, to prevent warping and rot.
Cedar shadowbox fencing typically ranges from $20 to $23 per linear foot installed and lasts for 15 to 25 years with proper maintenance. It's durable and naturally resistant to both insects and rot, and it requires less maintenance than treated lumber, helping to justify its higher price point.
Redwood shadowbox fencing costs between $15 and $30 per linear foot installed and lasts 20 to 25 years. It’s a premium wood that’s relatively low maintenance and offers natural resistance to decay and insects, along with an attractive appearance that many homeowners covet. Aside from its price, its main drawback is that availability can be limited in some regions.
Installing a cypress shadowbox fence usually costs between $18 and $28 per linear foot. It's particularly well-suited for humid climates thanks to its natural weather resistance and ability to handle moisture without rotting. The wood also contains cypretine, which is a natural preservative that helps ward off insects and decay. With regular maintenance, cypress fencing lasts between 15 and 25 years.
Composite shadowbox fencing costs between $25 and $40 per linear foot installed and lasts 20 to 30 years or more. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, it won't rot, warp, or require staining, and it's highly resistant to fading and weathering. Its durability makes it ideal for long-term use, but it lacks the natural appearance of wood, which is a drawback for some homeowners.
At $27 to $40 per linear foot installed, vinyl is one of the most expensive shadowbox fencing options, but it’s also among the lowest maintenance and longest lasting, with a lifespan that ranges from 20 to 30 years or more. You'll never need to paint, stain, or seal vinyl, just occasional cleaning with a garden hose keeps it looking new. However, repairs can be difficult compared to wood since damaged sections usually need complete replacement.
Local wood fence installers charge $10 to $30 per linear foot for shadowbox fence installation, which can add 30% to 50% to your overall project cost. Some pros bill by the hour instead, with hourly rates running $40 to $60 per hour.
Beyond size and material, several additional variables shape the final cost of your shadowbox fence installation. Costs vary depending on site conditions, gates, permits, and other project-specific factors.
Installing a fence on a slope may require regrading your lawn first, which costs $1,000 to $3,200 depending on the size and pitch of the slope. If you skip regrading, expect higher installation fees since your pro will need to customize the fencing material to follow the slope's contour.
Fence removal costs range from $3 to $7 per linear foot, depending on the existing fence's condition and materials. Some pros bundle removal into their overall estimate while others bill for it separately, so confirm this with your contractor upfront to avoid surprises.
Permits to build a fence cost $20 to $60, though not every project requires one. Fences near utilities or restricted zones, or those taller than six feet, are most likely to trigger a permit requirement, so check with your local authority before breaking ground.
Your property's condition can significantly affect the total cost of installing a shadowbox fence. Yards with heavy vegetation, rocky soil, or complex tree root systems require extra site-clearing work and may call for specialized equipment, both of which add to your labor costs.
Most homeowners need to install a gate or two alongside their fence, with costs ranging from $100 to $2,000 depending on the gate's material and features. Basic walk-through gates sit near the lower end of that range, while large automatic gates push toward the higher end.
Sandy soil, tall fences, and exposure to extreme weather can all make concrete post anchors necessary, adding roughly $5 to $10 per post to your project cost. Many pros include this in their overall estimate, so ask your contractor whether concrete is factored into their quote.
Fence height directly affects your total cost, with taller fences requiring more materials and labor. The most common height is six feet, but each additional foot above that adds 15% to 25% to your overall price.
Most people think they can DIY fence installation until they start to dig their first post hole, soon realizing the amount of physical labor that goes into such a project. If you value your time and energy, hiring a local professional fencing company to install your shadowbox fence is a smart idea. You might think that you’ll be saving money by trying to install the fence yourself, and you would save on labor, but you’ll likely need to rent or buy a lot of equipment—all of which an experienced contractor will have and know how to use properly.
In addition, a fencing pro will know best about the condition of the site and the soil, understanding how to handle the prep work before fence installation that will ensure your fence is installed correctly and sturdily.
Whether you should replace or repair your shadowbox fence depends on its current condition. If you're just dealing with a few cosmetic issues like split boards, missing pickets, or a wobbly section here and there, repairs make good financial sense.
But when you start seeing major problems like posts crumbling at ground level, large sections sagging or leaning, or widespread wood rot creeping up multiple boards, that's usually your fence waving the white flag. Generally, if fixing it up will cost you half or more of what a new fence would, it's probably worth investing in a new one.
Additionally, consider your fence’s average lifespan and how long you’ve had it. Most shadowbox fences last anywhere from 15 to 30 years with proper maintenance, depending on the material, so if yours is approaching the end of its projected lifespan, it’s a good idea to replace it.
Installing a shadowbox fence can be a significant investment, but there are several ways to potentially save money on this project. Use the following tips to cut costs on this project.
Select standard pressure-treated boards rather than premium cedar or exotic hardwoods.
Build your fence at a standard six-foot height instead of opting for something taller.
Remove old fencing and prep the ground yourself so you don’t have to pay a pro to do it.
Reuse any existing posts or panels that are still in good shape.
Compare estimates from at least three different fence pros to find the best price.
Install the fence yourself if you’re confident in your DIY abilities.
Buy raw lumber and stain or seal it yourself instead of paying premium prices for pre-finished materials.
Schedule your fence project during the winter months when many installation companies offer better rates.
Yes, a well-built shadowbox fence can increase your home’s value. The semi-private design boosts curb appeal by providing an attractive view from both sides of the fence, unlike standard privacy fences that have a distinct "good" side. This dual-sided aesthetic particularly appeals to buyers in upscale neighborhoods where fence appearance matters from all angles.
The shadowbox style also reduces wind load on the fence structure, and the spacing between boards allows for better air circulation to prevent moisture damage and extend the fence’s life. All of these factors can make your home more attractive in the eyes of potential buyers.
Be prepared to talk to your fencing contractor about the planned size of your shadowbox fence—this will have the biggest impact on price
The type of wood is another important factor—a fencing expert can walk you through the various types and which would be best for your home and environment
Note that if you are installing your fence on a slope, you may need to pay for land leveling
Adding a gate (or more than one) will incur additional costs
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
A reliable team for moves across state. My switch to a new place needed careful lifting through tight hallways. The movers checked the doorway first, then carried heavier pieces with slow, controlled movements. Their patience helped prevent damage, and I?d choose them again.
We have used Window Warriors many times with no issues. They arrived on time and were very professional . We have pets and Window Warrior team treated them very well, well trusted team.
Window Warrior of Columbus, Inc.We have bought and sold numerous times over the past 50 years. Sherman Hall and Top Line are top notch. Thorough and detailed, he explains every possibility, probability, and eventuality. High class and pleasant. The best.
Top Line Home Inspections, LLCOur homes curb appeal skyrocketed thanks to Custom Paint Jobs LLC s exterior painting.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLCWindow Depot did an amazing job on my deck. I wasnt sure what I wanted to do, but their composite decking was affordable and will last a long time. I am excited to have family over, and I am no longer embarrassed by my backyard. Jeff and the ground crew were polite, respectful, and caring for...
Window Depot USA of Central OhioStorms Mobile Welding was great to work with. They were prompt, professional and did an overall excellent job on the project. I highly recommend.
Great job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and SealingDid an amazing job transforming my yard. Also installed sod in places, would recommend to everyone.
Cardinal Landscaping & Construction LLCWe hired Andrew and the team from Midwest Lightscapes for a custom lighting design and installation on a Victorian Village home. The house had outdated low-voltage halogen outdoor lights and many of them were not working. Andrew designed and installed a new system including uplighting on the...
Midwest LightscapesThe work was completed in a day and a half. They cut small trees, pulled out an old swing set, pulled out railroad ties and left the place spotless when the job was complete. I am very happy with the fence and their efforts were above and beyond my expectations.
Elite FenceFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
How much a privacy fence costs depends on several factors, including the size of the fence and the material used. Our cost guide breaks down these and other factors.
Find composite fencing costs based on fence type, labor, and more in this guide. You can expect your project to cost $11 to $45 per linear foot.
A new fence adds privacy, improves safety, and even boosts curb appeal. But how much does fence installation cost? Find out in this guide.
A shadow box fence adds privacy to your yard while maintaining its aesthetics. Just what is a shadow box fence? This guide has all the answers you need.
Are you a classic picket fence family or looking for a bit more privacy? From style to material, this guide helps you choose the best type of wood fencing for your home.
Cedar fences are a perfect blend of nature, style, and affordability. Use this guide to find your perfect design and upgrade your yard.
