How much does it cost to install a picket fence?

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Price guide

£250 - £800

low

£250

median

£525

high

£800

Low, median and high bar chart distribuiton

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If you’re a homeowner looking to increase your property’s value, consider installing picket fences. These classic barriers are visually appealing, versatile, and easy to install. In other words, they can give you the best value for your money.

The cost to install a picket fence is around £525, but the final fee depends on several factors. This guide will discuss everything you need to know about the cost of picket fencing and help you get accurate quotes from contractors.

Price list for picket fence installation

UK City

Average cost of a picket fence (per project)

London

£800

Liverpool

£250

Manchester

£300

Birmingham

£400

Bristol

£350


The cost of picket fencing usually depends on the dimensions. Four-feet fences may be around £450 while six-feet ones may be worth £550. But the prices can swing wildly because of multiple variables. 

What affects picket fence installation costs?

a wooden picket fence

At least three factors have a huge impact on picket installation prices. These are materials, project complexity, and additional services.


Material

The material is the biggest factor influencing the cost of picket fence installation in the UK. 

Material

Description

Timber

Timber is a favourite among picket-fence fans because it easily goes well with home aesthetics. But the biggest challenge is maintenance. Staining, for example, can easily shore up the overall price of a wooden fence to at least 10% compared to an aluminium fence. Overall, installing wood picket fences may cost up to £400.

Aluminium

Aluminium is the second preferred picket fence material because it is versatile, durable, and non-corrosive. In other words, it’s easy to maintain. However, the typical aluminium picket fence cost is higher than wood.

Steel

A steel picket fence is popular for contemporary or industrial homes. Steel is also a durable material that can withstand extreme weather conditions. The cost of a steel picket fence depends on the type you choose. Galvanised steel is the most affordable option. 

PVC

PVC is a synthetic plastic known for being weather-resistant and low maintenance. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to install. The cost of a PVC picket fence varies according to type. The most common is uPVC, which is usually more expensive than composite PVC.

Vinyl

Vinyl has the same benefits as PVC, with the bonus of mimicking the look of timber. This is one of the least expensive picket fence materials on the list.


Project complexity

How much is a picket fence? It also depends on project complexity, including:

  • Area size. The bigger the land that needs fencing, the pricier it gets.
  • Regulations. Local zoning and land laws can make a simple fence installation project more time-consuming, stressful, and, therefore, expensive. Contractors might have to file the proper paperwork, which is an additional cost, before commencing the job.
  • Purpose. Picket fences are usually decorative. But they can also have other functions, such as containing animals or providing privacy. The more complex the desired function, the pricier the job might be. For example, garden fencing could cost more than a privacy fence because the former is often shorter and has more intricate designs.
  • Terrain difficulty. Is the area sloped or hilly? If so, the contractor will need to level the land before installing the fence, which will add to the picket fence cost.
  • Fence sections. If you have a lot of obstacles in your yard, such as trees and bushes, you might need more sections built. More sections mean more posts, panels, and work—and a higher bill.


Additional services

The cost of a picket fence will also vary according to the additional services you need. Some contractors are ready to go the extra mile for a reasonable price. They might offer:

  • Replacement and removal of old picket fences
  • Fence design
  • Landscaping
  • Fence staining and sealing
  • Emergency picket fence repair
  • Land levelling or contouring

☞ Related guide: How much does fence repair cost?

Hire a picket fence installer on Airtasker

a man sanding a picket fence

Overall, many things can affect the cost of picket fence installation. However, you’ll have better control over your spending through Airtasker. Knowing the cost of picket fence installation is the first step. The next one is to find the best contractor for the job—one who can give you excellent service for the budget you have in mind. 

Connect with a local Tasker by posting a task. To find the right person, include these details in the request form:

  • Your location and budget
  • Your preferred date and time
  • Size of the land you want to fence
  • Type of fence you like
  • Other services you’re looking for

You’ll shortly get offers and be able to choose the best professional for your needs.

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FAQs

To install pickets on a fence, measure the length of your fence. Then, cut the pickets to size and nail them into place. Start by nailing the pickets at the top of the fence, and then work your way down. Make sure that the pickets are evenly spaced and that they are all the same height. 

The simplest jobs that cover only a small land area on a level or easy-to-navigate terrain are more likely to finish in two to three days. More complex ones, especially those that involve the removal of old fences or staining of wood fences, might take at least a week.

Usually, the fencers in the UK charge between £10 and £20 per hour for the installation.

Pickets should be at least two inches off the ground to prevent moisture from damaging them.

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