Whether you’re repairing a fence that’s lost its function or luster, understanding the cost of fixing a fence can help ease your worries and get your fence fixed without stress. Your fence could be an indication of where your property line starts, or could help you keep your yard or garden as a peaceful outdoor oasis. These are all super important reasons to consider DIY fence repair or hiring a fence handyperson.
Before you decide on your approach, you’ll want to understand the general cost of various different fence repairs. In the US, fence repair costs can cost between $300-$800.
Fence Repair Cost By Size and Material
Several factors go into the average cost of fence repair. Price points can vary upon not only materials and labor, but also height and style of the fence. Repair costs can be estimated differently depending on various factors including the fence types being repaired, the extent of the damage, and average labor costs in your specific area. For example, a metal fence repair will be more than wood fence repair costs.
Height
Bigger may be better for some, but fences with shorter heights will give you a better bargain. In general, a 4ft x 4ft fence costs between $15 and $40 per linear foot, while an 8ft fence costs between $20 and $40 per linear foot. The standard fence height is actually regulated and varies via state with a range between 3 and 8ft. If you’re fixing a fence for a business or office space, you may need to obtain special permits with your city which have additional costs.
Type of Repair
Knowing what type of repair is needed will help you to more accurately figure out the fence repair labor cost. There are several types of fence repair including leaning fences, changing fallen fences, and repairing fence panels, holes, cracks, and wood rot. The average cost for these types of repair is $345 with most homeowners spending between $125 and $565.
Material
The cost of the fence repair is also affected by the type of material used. Fence post replacement can cost an average of $60-$165 per post.
Wood – $60
Chain-link – $75
Vinyl – $85
Bamboo – $60
Barbed Wire – $45
Composite – $85
Metal – $165
Glass – $165
Fixing a Fence Cost by Type of Repair?
Below are fence repair cost averages in the U.S.
Leaning Fence
Leaning fence repairs average around $550, but if you can plan to spend $310 and $700. This is usually a sign the fence was not installed properly at first because if you can’t lean with it, you actually can’t rock with it.
Fallen Fence
If a windstorm or a car collision causes your fence to fall, these fence repairs average about $460, but you can expect to pay anywhere between $250 and $700. More severe conditions will be on the higher price point.
Rot
Rot repairs on fencing is a common fence repair on wood, and one of the cheaper repairs to make, costing between $150 and $500. Rot comes from excess moisture and needs chemical treatments, patching, fresh paint, or even a replacement of the fence altogether.
Missing Boards or Sections
Gaps in your fence average just over $200 nationally and it includes the common fence gaps to mind like board, slat or panel replacement.
Holes or Cracks
Severe weather or impact from large objects such as a car can lead to holes or cracks in a fence. A simple hole or crack can cost $125 to fix, but multiple ones can rack up to as much as $400 to patch, sand, and stain or repaint the area.
Rust
Rust on metal fences like chain link or wrought iron will cost slightly more than rot, averaging between $250 and $500 for repairs. You should apply a rust-resistant coating to your metal fence once a year to lower the amount of rust damage needed and future fence repair issues.
Other Costs of Repairing a Fence
Fence Post Repair
Steel splints or braces stabilize fence posts to repair them from any damage
Gate Repair
The most affordable gates to repair are wood and vinyl, while metal and composite gate repairs can cost over $400 for materials alone
Painting or Staining
A fence staining contractor may charge anywhere between $0.35 – $0.55 per square foot if you opt for professional help.
Labor Cost
The terrain and layout of any yard will largely influence repair costs. Unlevel areas make for more work ahead.
DIY Fence Repair v. Professional Repair
Deciding whether to tackle a project yourself or hire out for a professional is a personal decision. Homeowners pay an average of $460 to hire a professional to repair a fence, while a personal project can equate to at least $166. See below for a DIY pro and cons list.
Pros:
– Cuts costs when done correctly
– Utilization of free time
– A sense of accomplishment
Cons:
– Cuts a level of expertise that comes with years of experience
– Much time is spent on a lot of learning in a small time frame
– Correcting mistakes may add up costs
Talk to a Tasker today about your fence repairs!
