What Is Included in an Estimate for a Fence?

Fencing costs differ depending on the type of fence selected, the terrain of the land, and labor. The location and fence materials can also affect the estimates. A fence company can help evaluate your fencing options and provide detailed estimates for each selection. Here is what is typically included in fence estimates:
Material Type and Quantity
A fence estimate includes the type and quantity of material needed. A fence company will list all the materials required for the fencing job, such as wooden slats, metal rails, and concrete for footings. They will then estimate the prices of the materials and the size of the area you choose to enclose. The larger the installation site, the more fencing material is needed.
Labor Costs
Labor costs include the wages of the professionals like Illinois Fence Company who install the fence. A fence estimate will provide you with the hours required to complete a job according to how many employees will be installing the fence. A fence company calculates labor costs based on factors like the complexity of the installation and the fence type. Fences installed on steeper terrain can incur more labor costs, and materials like bricks can take more time and effort to install.
Fence Type and Style
Your fence estimate will specify the chosen fence type and style, including your design, privacy, and security preferences. The fence style chosen determines the material type and labor needed. A vinyl picket fence may require less labor and materials than a nail-up, wooden slat privacy fence. Vinyl fencing materials can come in pre-assembled sections. A nail-up fence can take more time to install as each vertical board requires close attention to make sure it provides the client’s desired level of privacy.
Site Preparation
An estimate includes the cost of clearing the area, addressing terrain challenges, and removing obstacles such as rocks and shrubs that hinder the installation process. The estimate covers soil testing to determine soil composition and locating utilities such as water lines and access points. Site preparation checks that the fence is installed along the correct property lines and does not collide with water or gas pipes.
Permits and Regulations
The cost in your fence estimate includes fees related to your local authorities’ fencing permits and regulations. Some residential areas require permits for new fence installation or extending an existing fence. A reputable fence company can help you submit the project details required to obtain a fencing permit. Some fencing companies can also work with the city and obtain the permit for you. If they help obtain the correct paperwork, you’ll only need to pay the fee.
Additional Features
Your fence estimate will detail any additional features you want added to your fence. These features can include walkway and driveway gates, security features like latches, locks, or codes, and other personalized and decorative elements. Communicate with your fencing company to determine the overall cost of the fence installation with the addition of your desired features.
Timeline
The fencing company should include a project timeline in the estimate, including an estimate of the hours required to complete the job. Your fence’s installation timeline depends on the site size. Fencing a single residential area may take less time than fencing a commercial farm. A detailed timeline helps you plan and manage your expectations and finances.
Warranty and Maintenance
Your fence estimate can provide information about the warranties offered on the fencing materials and craftsmanship. The estimate may also cover recommendations for the future maintenance of the fence. A reputable fencing company works with high-quality materials to avoid extra maintenance costs. This can also help minimize the need for repairs and replacement.
Payment Terms
The estimate should clarify the payment plan and structure. This includes the required upfront deposit, interim payments, and the final payment upon completion of the fencing project. The estimate may also include details about terms such as cancellation fees if the work cannot be completed due to client delays or cancellations.
Contact a Fence Company Today
A fence estimate should outline all the aspects of your fencing project. This includes the type and quantity of materials, customization fees, labor costs, project timelines, and payment terms. An estimate from a fencing professional helps you assess the total costs of your project to help you prepare financially. Contact a fence company today to receive an estimate for your fencing project.