Fences not only provide privacy, but they also keep our children, pets, and gardens safe. Pool fences and garden dividers even block off specific areas. But deciding on the type of fence to surround your yard with can be overwhelming. Do you opt for classic wooden fence or modern iron? What about hedges or trellis frames? There are lots of choices, and they get expensive fast, especially if you have a large backyard. Luckily, there are lots of cheap fence ideas that still look great.
To determine the right kind of fence for you, think about your priorities. If durability matters the most, metal is the best option. Wood fences are timeless and stylish, but they're also highly prone to wear due to weather and age, and they can require a good amount of maintenance. The least expensive type of fencing is chicken or hog wire. It's great for keeping pests out of your garden and animals contained, but these wire fences aren't the most aesthetically pleasing—although we have ideas below on how to spruce them up. There's also PVC fencing, which is lightweight and offers a classic look for a lower cost than real wood or metal. If you need a fence now, the easiest type of fence to install is a no-dig fence. While these fences are great for temporary use and are easy to maneuver, they aren't sturdy or weather resistant because they aren't secured into the ground.
The best inexpensive privacy fence ideas combine style and substance, keeping your family safe without blowing your budget. Whether you want wood, wrought iron, wire, or trailing vines, we're highlighting 10 cheap fence ideas that actually look expensive ahead.
Reclaimed Wood
Sustainable and cost effective, reclaimed wood is one of the best materials to use if you want to add character to your garden fence. This is a great look for coastal homes or modern homes that want mix old and new styles.
Cost: $1 to $15 per linear foot
Chicken Wire
Great for protecting yards and gardens from critters and wildlife, chicken wire is also great for reining in crawling vines and ivies.
Cost: $17 to $20 per linear foot installed
Picket
Often touted as part of the grown-up dream, picket fences are quaint and timeless. While not suited for enclosing large acreage (or large pets), picket fences are ideal for smaller yards and suburban neighborhoods.
Cost: $50 per 8-foot panel.
Split Rail
Because of its sparse appearance, split-rail fences require less material than full-plank fences do and therefore cost less. This minimalist fence style is also a great option for farmhouses and ranch homes.
Cost: $12 to $30 per linear foot
Wrought Iron
Regal and ornate, iron fences are often used because of their weather-resistant make and high-end appearance. They are also more sustainable than wood and more durable than wire.
Cost: $25 and $35 per linear foot.
Trellis
If you prefer a secret garden type of backyard, opt for full trellis fencing and allow your greenery to take over. Note: It will take some time for the ivy to grow, so this fencing option isn't one of instant satisfaction.
Cost: $3.50 to $7 per linear foot
Corrugated Metal
Strong and industrial, corrugated metal is a great fencing option for those who want a lightweight material that's both mold and rust resistant. It coordinates perfectly with modern-style homes.
Cost: $10 and up per linear foot
Hedges
Beloved for the privacy they provide and the shapes they can be pruned into, hedges are a great fence option for people who have an ample amount of space. They do, however, require frequent pruning and attention to keep them healthy, which adds to the cost.
Cost: $2 to $3 per linear foot
Pine
Pine beams that are chemically or pressure treated to resist rot and pests cost less than other woods that are naturally rot-resistant lumbers such as cedar or redwood.
Cost: $14 to $20 per linear foot installed
Hog Wire
A cleaner looking fence material than chicken wire, hog wire features wider, rectangular holes. This option is ideal for keeping small animals out of gardens and marking large areas along property lines.
Cost: $3 to $5 per linear foot.
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