Learn the total cost of fence installation today. Find out prices for materials and labour to ensure your fencing project in the UK is within budget.

Average Cost by Fence Type

Fence installation costs are drastically different according to the type of fence you choose. Below are some common fence types with their average costs in the UK. Timber fencing is the most popular choice and generally costs between £50 and £100 per metre. 

The pricing usually comes down to the quality of wood and the height of the fence. For example, simple wooden panels may cost around £50 per metre, while stronger, pressure-treated panels can reach closer to £100 per metre. 

Metal fences, for example, fencing made of steel or aluminium, typically cost between £90 and £200 per metre. Steel fencing, being very strong and durable, often costs more, usually starting around £120 per metre. Aluminium is slightly cheaper but still provides excellent durability, with costs starting around £90 per metre. 

Composite fencing is becoming popular because it requires very little maintenance and lasts a long time. It usually costs between £100 and £200 per metre. However, initially more expensive, composite fencing can save money over time because it needs fewer repairs and no painting or staining. 

Vinyl fencing provides homeowners with another low-maintenance option with prices that range from around £80 to £150 per metre. Whereas vinyl is a lot more durable and weather-resistant, the initial installation costs can be higher than those of timber fences.

Labour Costs: What to Expect

When planning fence installation in the UK, you must also think about the labour costs, alongside the cost of materials and fence types. On average, many professional fencing contractors have a price range that sits between £150 and £300 per day, although this can vary depending on the region, experience of the installer, and the complexity of the project. 

Contractors in larger cities or busier regions often have quite higher rates due to increased operating costs. You may also find that specialist fences, such as metal or composite fencing, could require more experienced installers, which can increase daily labour charges.

DIY vs Professional Installation: Cost Comparison

Whether or not to opt for DIY fence installation or hire out a professional to carry out the job for you can be easy to decide when you are aware of the factors involved. Before making the decision, you'll have to carefully weigh up the costs, effort, and risks involved. DIY projects often seem much more affordable at first because you're only paying for materials, without any extra charges for labour. 

However, doing all the work yourself can come with hidden costs, such as renting or buying tools and equipment, purchasing even more materials in case you make mistakes, or needing a professional to repair your errors later. 

Alongside this, installing a fence yourself can take significantly longer, especially if you have limited experience or time, which may affect your daily life or work schedule. 

Professional fence installation typically has higher upfront costs, usually between £20 and £40 per metre for labour, but offers clear advantages. 

Experienced installers can complete the job quickly, efficiently, and correctly the first time. They have the right tools and expertise to manage difficult tasks, such as working with uneven ground, precise measuring, and safely removing old fencing. 

By utilising the help of professionals, you can significantly reduce the risk of any costly mistakes and future repair work you may need, saving you lots of time and potential frustration in the long run. It's always best to think of your own skill level, available time, and complexity of the job before deciding whether DIY or professional installation best suits your budget and needs.

Additional Costs to Consider (Gates, Posts, Removal)

When you sit down and begin budgeting for your new fence installation, you must start by factoring in the potential additional costs beyond the fence panels themselves. 

Gates, for instance, are often priced separately and can range from anywhere around £100 to £400 each, depending on the material, size, and style you select. Timber gates tend to be cheaper, while metal or composite gates are usually more expensive due to their increased durability and complexity.

Ways to Save Money on Your Fence Installation

There are many ways you can reduce the overall cost of your fence installation without compromising on quality. One simple, easy method is by selecting much more affordable materials, for example, standard timber panels. 

These are often a whole lot cheaper than composite, vinyl, or metal options. You can also compare quotes from a broad range of fencing contractors to find the best value. Make sure to ask what each quote includes, as this will help you avoid a number of potential hidden charges. 

Another way you can save money is by choosing to do part of the work yourself, such as clearing the area, removing old fencing, or helping with basic tasks, like painting. Buying materials during seasonal sales or in bulk can also reduce costs. 

Finally, opting for a more straightforward design rather than a custom or decorative style can help keep your budget under control while still providing the privacy and security you need.

If you're looking for high-quality, suitable fencing installation for your home garden in Milton Keynes, give our team a call today. At Milton Keynes Landscaping, we do all we can to help provide you with fencing for privacy and security.