Prices for board-on-board fences typically fall within a broad range due to wood type, height, labor rates, and local permitting. The cost estimate includes material, installation, and common add-ons. A typical project’s price per linear foot reflects both the material choice and the level of finish expected on the fence line.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Board-on-Board Fence (materials + labor) | $15 | $28 | $40 | Includes standard 6–8 ft sections, common pressure-treated lumber. |
| Materials (per linear ft) | $7 | $12 | $18 | Boards, posts, rails, fasteners, caps. |
| Labor (per linear ft) | $6 | $13 | $22 | Includes setup, digging, and assembly. |
| Permits & Fees | $0 | $3 | $25 | Depends on city/county rules and setback requirements. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $2 | $6 | Material drop-off charges and waste removal. |
| Contingency | $0 | $3 | $6 | Usually 5–10% of project subtotal. |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Board-on-board fencing typically costs between $22 and $40 per linear foot, depending on wood type and local labor rates. For most residential installations, the total project ranges from $2,200 to $8,000 for 100 linear feet. In scenarios with premium hardwoods, taller panels, or complex layouts, costs can exceed $8 per linear foot if additional features are required. The per-foot ranges assume standard 6–8 foot sections and typical gate additions where applicable.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $7 | $12 | $18 | Includes boards, posts, rails, and fasteners; treated pine is common. |
| Labor | $6 | $13 | $22 | Labor costs vary with crew size and soil conditions. |
| Equipment | $1 | $2 | $4 | Includes drills, post-hole diggers, and level tools. |
| Permits | $0 | $3 | $25 | Depends on jurisdiction and setback rules. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $2 | $6 | Truck delivery of materials; waste removal costs vary. |
| Contingency | $0 | $3 | $6 | 5–10% of subtotal; accounts for site surprises. |
What Drives Price
Material type and grade are primary drivers of cost, with pressure-treated pine being the baseline and hardwoods or cedar at a premium. Height, gate count, and yard access influence labor time, along with soil conditions and grading. Regional differences in labor rates can shift per-foot pricing by 10–25% between markets. For planning, assume a mid-range project at 6–8 ft tall, with standard gates, and a typical suburban job site.
Pricing Variables
Key variable impacts include the following:
- Wood species: Pressure-treated pine vs cedar vs tropical hardwood affects material cost by 20–60% overall.
- Fence height: Each extra foot adds roughly 10–15% to materials and 5–15% to labor.
- Soil and terrain: Rocky or clay soils increase excavation time and equipment use.
- Gate requirements: Single or double access gates add fixed costs and hinge/lock hardware considerations.
- Finish and maintenance: Stain or sealant adds upfront cost but extends life.
- Permits and zoning: Some jurisdictions require fence permits; others allow simple wall fences without permits.
Ways To Save
Choose regional suppliers and batch install to reduce delivery charges. Opt for standard 6–8 ft boards and minimize custom cuts to cut waste. Scheduling during off-peak seasons can lower labor costs in some markets. If a neighbor is also installing a fence, consider a shared boundary to split materials and labor. Confirm that gate costs are minimized with a single, standard-size gate when possible.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across regions due to labor markets and material sourcing. In the Northeast, expect higher labor rates with similar materials. The Midwest often balances mid-range material costs with moderate labor. The Southwest may see increased material costs due to shipping and longer average fence heights for privacy. Typical deltas relative to a national baseline are ±10–25%, with rural areas skewing lower and dense metropolitan zones higher.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor is a substantial portion of the total cost and depends on crew size and experience. A two-person crew can install 60–120 linear feet per day under favorable conditions. In tough soils or steep backyards, daily output may drop to 30–60 feet. Local wage trends and unionization can produce 8–12% differences from nearby markets.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes for common setups.
- Basic — 100 linear feet, 6 ft tall, pressure-treated pine, no gates beyond one standard gate; materials $1,000, labor $1,200, permits $0–$25, delivery $150, contingency $150; total $2,450.
- Mid-Range — 150 linear feet, 7 ft tall, cedar boards, two gates; materials $2,400, labor $2,000, permits $25, delivery $250, contingency $300; total $4,975.
- Premium — 200 linear feet, 8 ft tall, tropical hardwood and decorative caps, three gates; materials $4,000, labor $3,800, permits $100, delivery $350, contingency $600; total $8,850.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Maintenance impacts long-term budget and cost per year. Cedar or redwood may require refinishing every 3–5 years, adding periodic maintenance costs. Painted or stained finishes may last longer in dry climates but need refreshment sooner in humid regions. Expect re-staining every 3–7 years and occasional board replacement for weathered sections. Over a 5-year horizon, maintenance and minor repairs can add 5–15% to the original price, depending on climate and usage.
