How to Install a Fence: The Estimated Cost

Decide what type of fence you're going to install. The materials costs per foot for a chain link fence is different than the costs for a wood fence, for example. The general difference in cost of different fencing materials may be a factor in deciding what type of fence you will install, but you can't estimate the actual costs until you have decided the fence type.

Decide on a height and length for your fence. Check on any fence regulations in your area at the offices of your municipal government. You may have to comply with some height and length regulations.

Estimate the cost of tools and materials you'll need for installing your fence. This includes equipment to dig fence post holes, cement to fill in the holes and the fence posts themselves. If you don't already have post-hole digging equipment, you will need to purchase or rent it. Call local equipment rental businesses for prices on renting the needed tools. Determine how many fence posts you need to dig, which will help you estimate how many bags of cement to purchase. If you're installing a wood fence and don't have the right saw for the work, you may need to rent or purchase one.

Estimate the cost of the fencing. Chain link fencing is usually sold in rolls. Wood or vinyl fences can also be purchased in sections of varying length. Use the ideal dimensions of your fence to determine how much fencing you will need to buy. Consider what gates you will need, as well as screws, nails, chain-link connectors, post caps, hinges and other associated hardware.

Total your estimated costs, including equipment costs, cement, fence posts, hardware, gates and fencing. This is the estimated cost of installing your fence.