Aluminum Fence Cost

• Residential aluminum fencing typically comes in preassembled panels 4'-8' long and 3'-6' tall which can be installed by a professional fencing contractor or an amateur willing to dig fence post holes. With posts and other required hardware, do-it-yourself aluminum fence materials can cost $8 -$30 or more a linear foot, depending on height, style, metal strength and number of posts and gates, or $1,000 -$3,500 for 100' and $2,800 -$10,000 for a 300' fence.
• With professional installation, aluminum fence costs vary from $12 -$125 or more a foot, or $1,500 -$13,500 for 100' and $4,000 -$12,000 for a 300' fence depending on height, fence style and the complexity of installation (a sloping property or obstructions like trees or rocks make installation more difficult), but an average price is about $20 -$30 a foot, depending on height and style. For example, Production Fence Works in Georgia estimates average prices for labor and materials at $19 -$25 a foot for a 3-rail aluminum fence 4' high, and $24 -$30 a foot for one 6' high.

• After the fence path is cleared, the post holes are dug and the posts installed in concrete. Depending on the manufacturer's instructions, it might be necessary to wait a day or two until the concrete dries, or the fence panels and gate might be attached to the posts while the concrete is still wet. Fence manufacturer Jerith provides installation instructions, and a Discount Fence Supply video demonstrates the installation process.
• Aluminum fencing installs most easily on flat land. On a hilly or sloping property, the fence panels must be either stair-stepped down a slope (using fence posts of varying lengths) or "raked" so the panels are at an angle, following the contour of the ground. Hoover Fence Co. illustrates stair stepping and raking.
• Before installing any type of fence, call 811 to have utility companies come out and mark any underground utility lines; or contact local utility companies directly. Also check local zoning, building and neighborhood codes; many dictate the height and type of fencing allowed, and property line set-backs required. If installing a pool fence, make sure the specific fencing being used meets local pool codes.

• If the fence encloses a driveway, a driveway gate can cost $1,400 -$3,200 for one that opens manually, or an automated ornamental driveway gate can cost $2,000 -$7,700 or more. With installation, the total cost can be $1,800 -$9,000. The American Fence Association describes the different types of driveway gates.

• An aluminum fence can vary from simple, evenly spaced, straight pickets to elaborate geometric, floral or other designs. Look for examples of the style of fence design desired. Eads Fence Co., Elyira Fence and Hoover Fence Co. post portfolios of different fence styles.
• Aluminum fence panels, posts and related hardware are available from home improvement centers like Home Depot and Lowe's.
• Search for local contractors through the American Fence Association or the National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Association.
• Get several estimates; verify that the company is properly bonded and insured; ask for and check references; and search for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

More Articles in Fencing