If you need a new fence but have a tight budget, there are a few things you can do to save money on supplies and installation. Even if you can't install the fence yourself, you might be able to save money if you buy the supplies yourself when they are on sale and then hire a contractor to install the fence. Here are some other things to think about that affect the cost of having a new fence installed.
The Type of Fencing You Choose
When you hire a contractor to install a fence, you may have to pay by the hour or length of the fence. If you pay by the hour, then you want a fence that is easy to install so the job goes fast. Chain link fences are easy to install and the supplies are affordable too. Also, consider the shape of your lot when choosing the type of fence you buy.
If you have hills, it is more challenging to install a fence and have it look nice. Rackable aluminum fencing follows the slope of your yard while vinyl or wood panels must be installed in a stair step fashion. It takes more work to put a fence in a hilly area, so if you can avoid hills and valleys and have the fence installed on flat ground, you might save money on the installation.
The Size of Your Lot
It makes sense that the larger your yard, the more you'll have to pay on fencing and installation. However, you might be able to save some money by focusing on the reason for your fence. If it is to contain the family dog, you might be able to put up a chain link fence around a portion of your yard.
Since you can see through the fence, it won't block the view of the rest of your property and you'll have a way to keep your dog safe. If you need a fence because you're installing a pool, then consider placing the fence close to the border of the pool rather than enclosing your entire yard.
Where You Buy the Materials
You may get a discount on installation if you buy the fencing materials from the contractor that installs your fence. Before you buy any materials, check your local hardware store for the base cost and see if you can catch the supplies on sale for a comparison. Then, get quotes from a fencing company. You might save some money if you can buy the supplies heavily discounted on sale.
You can also watch for classified ads from homeowners in your neighborhood. You might get a good deal on used fencing when a neighbor puts up a new fence. You never know, you might be able to get the fencing free if you help a neighbor tear down the old fence. However, keep in mind, if you buy the materials from the same contractor that installs the fence, then you know everything needed is supplied and it takes the worry off hunting around for everything you need such as hinges and gate latches.
When You Have the Fence Installed
If you're not in a hurry for a new fence, you might be able to save some money on the supplies and installation if you have the work done in the winter. Fence installers are usually busier in the milder months and work slows down when it gets cold. Of course, you'll need to pick a time when there is no snow and the weather isn't too cold, but if you wait until the end of the year, you might find supplies on inventory clearance sales. Also, since installers aren't so busy, the company might offer a lower rate to bring in business.
A fence is a pretty big investment, so you don't want to go for the cheapest you can find and sacrifice on quality. Remember, your neighbors will see the fence too, so it should complement your home. While getting the best price is important, it's more important to end up with a fence you like and does what you need it to do.
To learn more about your options, visit resources like fencingitin.com.
Share
