Stop sediment from sliding on your build site
The average silt fence installation cost is $835, which is $5 per linear foot. Costs range from $2 to $8 per linear foot, depending on the type of material and installation process. Given that silt fencing is ripped down at the end of a new build home project, it might seem like an unnecessary expense. However, this legal necessity and environmental protection measure is typically rolled into your contractor costs to build a new home.
| Low Cost | Average Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $335 | $835 | $6,680 |
Silt fence installation costs vary widely depending on a variety of factors. Take the following into account when breaking down your budget.
Silt fences vary in quality. If your build site won’t see much rain, is pretty clean, and construction is quick, you might be able to opt for a simpler, less durable plastic-backed silt fence. Heavier-duty wide, wire-backed fence construction is a better investment for muddy sites in rainy regions with a long build time. Your contractor should advise you on what is best for your site.
| Silt Fence Type | Construction | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Type A | Medium durability | $3 – $6 per linear foot |
| Type B | Low durability | $2 – $4 per linear foot |
| Type C | High durability | $5 – $8 per linear foot |
The size of your building lot affects silt fence installation costs. If you're designing a grand multi-bedroom family home with sizable grounds, you’ll need much more fencing than a compact one-bedroom tiny house. The average US home sits on a lot that’s around 1/5 acre.
Below are some common lot sizes and average cost ranges.
| Lot Size | Perimeter Length | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1/5 acre | 167 linear feet | $334 – $1,336 |
| 1/4 acre | 208 linear feet | $416 – $1,664 |
| 1/2 acre | 415 linear feet | $830 – $3,320 |
| 1 acre | 835 linear feet | $1,670 – $6,680 |
Traditional silt fence trench installation involves digging a trench to bury the fabric and stakes into the ground sufficiently. A modern static slicing method–which uses a blade to cut into the soil–is becoming more common as the process inserts the fencing at the same time. Trenching requires almost triple the time it takes to install a silt fence using the static slicing method, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. This means trenching will invariably cost more.
Always ask your contractor what method they use and why. It will allow you to understand if reducing costs is an option.
To avoid pricing surprises, know that additional silt fencing costs can come up due to maintenance and removal, even after the initial installation.
Contractors need to inspect silt fences throughout the construction project. These temporary structures are only designed to last around five to eight months tops. They can easily get torn or sag, especially during downpours, and other inclement weather. If the damage is minimal, you can repair by restaking or replacing the posts or removing silt buildup. Occasionally, the fabric may be ripped beyond repair and may require replacement of some or all of the silt fencing.
Always ask your contractor whether they cover silt fence repairs or replacements as part of the project costs to plan your budget accordingly.
A contractor’s quote usually includes the cost of removing and disposing of silt fencing at the end of the project. You’ll still want to always check this to avoid having to remove the silt fence yourself or pay an unexpected bill.
Unless you're a construction whiz, this isn't a temporary DIY fence idea to tackle yourself. It's a job best left to a general contractor or a specialty fence company near you.
While you can save money by installing a silt fence yourself, going the DIY route can make the project susceptible to damage and expensive mistakes. Improper installation means the fencing won’t prevent erosion effectively or excessive amounts of sediment can enter the water system. You need specialty equipment for digging or slicing a trench and solid knowledge of complex silt fence installation regulations. Plus, you could damage the environment with contaminated stormwater runoff, anger your neighbors if your project is extra muddy, and end up with a hefty fine from government department building inspectors for getting things wrong.
The purpose of the porous fence fabric prevents sediments from the building site from entering waterways as runoff. This reduces problems with soil erosion, flooding, and negatively impacting local water quality. It also keeps the adjoining streets from turning into a muddy mess.
Silt fences are legally required for home construction projects in many states. Your building contractor will be familiar with the local regulations. If you are installing the fence yourself, contact your local government building department to check. Skipping this step to cut costs can end up with a fine.
Silt fences should be trenched 8 to 12 inches deep to prevent sediment-filled water from escaping underneath. It also helps to anchor the fence during wet, windy weather. The silt fence fabric often has a red line to indicate the depth for digging. A good contractor will be familiar with the guidelines and regulations.
Silt fences are very effective when installed correctly and used in proper locations. However, there are places where they don’t work as well. This includes property with a concentrated water flow, where runoff could pool or cause a flooding hazard. You’ll also want to use caution when installing in areas susceptible to landslides. Your contractor will follow state guidelines and know when an alternate solution is more effective.
