Planning to fence large properties without busting your budget?
Fencing large properties is a significant project that often overwhelms landowners with the possibilities.
Fencing costs have a nasty habit of spiraling out of control if the wrong decisions are made at the beginning.
However…
With the right fencing products and supplies, large property owners can fence their property on a budget while still delivering quality results.
Today, we’re going to take a look at those strategies.
What you’ll discover:
- Get the low-down on the fencing costs of large properties
- Learn the most effective materials for fencing
- Know the smartest installation strategies
- Understand the importance of long-term maintenance
Know the Ins and Outs of Fencing Costs on Large Properties
Fencing a large property is a serious financial undertaking.
The costs range dramatically depending on the materials you choose and the terrain of your property. According to industry data, fencing five acres will cost anywhere from $16,700 to $75,000 based on the material and the condition of the land.
The numbers get even wilder when you realize fencing larger tracts of land typically has a lower cost per acre than smaller ones due to economies of scale.
The initial investment can be substantial, though.
What makes fencing a large property different from your average backyard project is the amount of fencing products and supplies you’ll need to get the job done.
Terrain factors in heavily, too. Rocky soil, uneven ground, trees, and other obstacles can tack on thousands of dollars to the total. Permit costs can range from $80 to $500 depending on how high your fence is and what your local regulations say.
Learn the Best Material for Fencing on Budgets
This is where many property owners make a critical mistake.
They go for the absolute cheapest upfront without considering long-term expenses. The mistake comes back to haunt them years later when repairs and replacements start eating into the budget.
Wire fencing is still the most affordable option for large properties at around $2 per linear foot. It is best suited for agricultural uses where aesthetics are not the primary consideration.
Chain-link fencing costs anywhere from $4 to $6 per linear foot and offers exceptional durability for commercial and agricultural applications.
Chain-link fencing requires very little maintenance and can last for decades with proper installation.
Wood fencing is the more traditional looking choice at $14 to $35 per linear foot. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are especially popular with large property owners.
However, wood fences require regular maintenance, including staining, sealing, and repairs.
Here’s something interesting.
Composite fencing is quickly becoming the material of choice for large-scale projects.
The upfront costs are higher, but composite fencing is resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage.
Composite makes an excellent long-term investment for property owners who want that durability without the headaches of traditional wood fencing that requires constant maintenance.
The global fencing market is undergoing a transformation. According to market research, plastic and composite fencing materials are expected to grow at an 8.7% CAGR through 2030, outpacing other categories.
Learn Smartest Installation Strategies
Installation costs can make or break your fencing budget.
Labour can account for up to 50% of a project’s total cost. That is a big deal for large properties where these costs can accumulate fast. Experienced property owners rely on the following strategies to keep installation costs under control:
Planning the layout carefully will save money. The shape of the property is more critical than people realize. Square or rectangular shaped properties require less fencing material than irregularly shaped properties. Every corner adds installation time and materials.
Installing the fence in phases is an option many landowners don’t consider. There is no rule that states the entire property must be fenced immediately. Many owners fence priority areas and then expand gradually. Spreading the cost out allows for better cash flow management.
Site preparation is key before the installation crew arrives. Clearing brush, removing obstacles, and levelling the ground can save money in the long run. Contractors charge premium rates for dealing with unprepared sites.
Buying the fencing materials in bulk is a must. Purchasing materials and supplies in larger quantities typically results in significant discounts. Work with suppliers to negotiate pricing based on total volume.
Get multiple quotes to avoid sticker shock. Accepting the first price is a rookie mistake. Professional installation costs vary greatly from one contractor to the next. Obtain three to five quotes to get a realistic idea of fair market pricing.
The Right Fencing: DIY vs. Professional Installation
The choice of DIY vs professional installation is a matter of property size and complexity.
Properties under an acre with simple terrain are ripe candidates for DIY installation. The savings in labour alone can be substantial. A post hole digger, concrete, and basic tools are the primary requirements. Most homeowners with reasonable construction skills can tackle simple fence styles.
However…
Professional installation is a better idea for tracts of more than a few acres.
The time investment on large properties simply isn’t practical for DIY installation. Professionals also have access to equipment that will speed up the process.
Chain-link fencing costs on average $5 to $25 per linear foot for labour alone. Wood fence installation is typically $10 to $30 per linear foot for labour. The costs seem high until factoring in the weeks of personal time required for DIY installation on large properties.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips
The cheapest fence to install is often not the cheapest fence to own over the long term.
The material selection phase of the decision-making process is critical. Wood fencing requires staining or painting every two to three years. Without proper treatment, the wood can rot and warp. Insect damage is a constant concern.
Metal fencing is more durable but isn’t entirely maintenance-free. Rust prevention and periodic painting go a long way in terms of extending lifespan. Chain-link fencing holds up well but can sag over time, requiring tension adjustments.
Composite and vinyl fencing are by far the easiest to maintain over time.
Occasional cleaning is typically all that is required to keep the material looking good. The higher upfront investment is well worth it when amortized over the 25 to 30-year lifespan of these materials.
Get the Best Return on Investment in Your Fencing Project
Want the maximum return on your fencing investment?
Match the fence type to the purpose. Areas requiring high security need stronger materials. Perimeter boundaries that serve mainly to delineate property lines can get by with lighter-duty options. Premium materials everywhere is a waste of money.
Consider hybrid fencing approaches. Many large property owners who have found success use multiple fencing types in different zones. Decorative entrance fencing paired with utilitarian wire fencing along the back boundaries reduces overall costs but maintains curb appeal where it counts.
Future needs should also factor into initial planning. Gates, access points, and potential property subdivisions should be on the drawing board from day one. Retrofitting gates is more expensive than including them in the original installation.
Final Words
Fencing large properties doesn’t have to break the bank.
The key is to choose the right materials for each application and make smart choices about when and how to install.
Wire and chain-link work brilliantly for agricultural and security purposes.
Wood delivers traditional aesthetics at reasonable prices, while composite materials offer a level of durability that is simply unbeatable for areas where low maintenance is critical.
Property owners who take the time to plan properly and get multiple quotes end up with far better outcomes.
The fencing products and supplies you choose today will determine your maintenance costs for decades to come.
Don’t rush the decision. Plan strategically, and a smart fencing solution will both protect your property and your wallet for years into the future.