How to Price a Split-Rail Fence

Determine the size of the area you want to fence. Measure the width and length or depth of the area. Fencing material is sold and priced by the linear foot, so you need to know the exact measurements of your property.

Decide how many rails tall you want your fence. Many split-rail fences are just two rails high, but you can get them as high as three or four rails. Remember that the taller the fence is, the more material it will take to build it. A split-rail fence that is four rails tall will require double the amount of the rails as a two-rail-tall fence. The rails are sold as individual units.

Determine how many posts it will take to build the fence. Posts are typically placed every 8 to 10 feet for split-rail fences. Decide on the length of the rails you want, and then you will know where to place the posts. Corner posts usually cost more than regular posts, so keep track of the exact number of corner posts as well as regular split posts.

Choose the type of wood you want for your fence. There are typically four kinds of wood available for split rail fences: pine, spruce, hemlock and cedar. Cedar is the most expensive, but it is also the most weather resistant. Prices for each type of wood can vary from one supplier or contractor to the next.

Pick out a gate type. There are several different gate types available for split-rail fences, and prices will differ due to the amount of materials needed to build each one. Small, large and five-bar gates are common split-rail gates. Also decide exactly how many gates you want to install along your fence line, as the price will rise for each additional gate.

Write down the measurements of your property. Take them to a supplier or contractor and tell them the height or number of rails you want, the material you want to use, how many regular and corner posts it will require, and how many gates you want. You can decided if you want to install the fence yourself, or have the contractor do it for you.