You might be asking yourself what is the cheapest fence to build. Well, it depends on where you live, how many posts you need, and how tall you want the fence to be. But here's a quick overview of some of the most common types of fences available.
Quick Answer: The Cheapest Fence to Install
For most GTA properties, chain link fencing is usually the cheapest professionally installed fence because the materials are efficient, installation is straightforward, and it works well for long runs. Pressure-treated wood fencing is often the cheapest privacy-focused option. Vinyl usually costs more upfront but can reduce maintenance over time.
| Budget goal | Best starting option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest upfront cost | Chain link | Efficient materials, quick installation, strong for long property lines |
| Cheapest privacy fence | Pressure-treated wood | Lower upfront cost than vinyl or ornamental metal |
| Lowest maintenance budget | Vinyl | Higher upfront cost, less staining and sealing |
| Cheapest repair path | Post or section repair | Works only when the rest of the fence is structurally sound |
| Cheapest pool-safe path | Purpose-planned pool fence | Avoids rework caused by non-compliant gates or layout |
Do not compare materials before checking the posts. A cheap panel replacement is wasted money if the posts are rotten, shallow, or moving after winter. If the fence is leaning, start with fence post replacement or a fence repair assessment before choosing a new material.
What Makes a Fence Cheap or Expensive?
The fence material matters, but it is not the whole quote. The final installed price also depends on:
- Linear footage and fence height
- Gate count, gate width, hinges, latches, and post strength
- Whether old fencing and concrete footings need removal
- Soil, slope, drainage, and frost movement
- Access through narrow side yards or finished landscaping
- Whether the project is a simple backyard line, pool enclosure, or commercial boundary
If you need a gate, include it in the quote early. A simple walk gate is different from a double gate, pool gate, or commercial access gate. See our fence gate installation page for the gate-specific factors that affect price. For a full breakdown of what drives a quote, see how much it costs to build a fence.
Aluminum fencing
Aluminum and ornamental metal fencing are not usually the cheapest choices upfront. They are better treated as durability, pool-area, front-yard, or decorative-security options — around a pool, aluminum pool fencing is a common code-compliant choice. If the goal is the lowest installed cost, compare chain link first. If the goal is curb appeal with a metal look, compare aluminum or wrought iron-style fencing against your long-term maintenance expectations.
Wood fencing
Wood fences are one of the most popular types of fences used around homes today. They come in many different styles and materials. Some people prefer wooden picket fences while others like wrought iron fences. Whatever style you choose, it's important to consider what type of wood you want to use and how much maintenance you'll need to do. Here are some things to keep in mind about wood fences.
What Is Wood Fencing Made Of?
There are several different kinds of woods that make up wood fences. Pine trees are often used because they're strong, durable, and relatively easy to work with. Cedar and cedar shake are also common choices. These woods are very resistant to rot and insects.
How Do I Choose My Wood?
When choosing wood for your fence, consider the look you want. If you're looking for something rustic, go with pine or cedar. For a more modern look, try oak or teak. You can also opt for lighter colors such as white or light gray. Be sure to check out our guide to selecting the best color paint for your home for more tips.
Which Style Should I Use?
If you've never built a fence before, there are several options available to you. One option is a simple chain link fence. This is inexpensive and requires little maintenance. Another option is a post and rail fence. With this design, posts are set into concrete footings and rails run along each side of the post. Posts are usually spaced every 4 feet, but spacing can vary depending on where you live.
PVC fencing
PVC fencing is an affordable option that creates a beautiful, long lasting fence. PVC fencing is made from recyclable plastic which makes it eco friendly. PVC fencing is durable and weather resistant. In fact, it is one of the most popular materials used for making fences because it is very easy to install and maintain. PVC fencing is also fireproof.
Wrought iron fencing
A wrought iron fence is one of the most popular types of fence because it looks great and requires little upkeep. However, there are some things you need to know about wrought iron fencing before you buy.
What Is Wrought Iron Fencing?
Wrought iron fencing is a metal fence that uses bars shaped like circles, squares, rectangles, and triangles. These shapes are called "wires." They are welded together to make a solid piece of fencing.
How Does Wrought Iron Fence Compare To Other Types Of Fences?
Wrought iron fences are usually much stronger than chain link fences, wood privacy fences, wooden picket fences, vinyl fences, and even brick walls. This makes them ideal for areas where people want to see outside but don't want to deal with having to climb over a wall.
Why Should I Choose Wrought Iron Fencing For My Home Or Business?
Wrought iron is strong enough to withstand both high winds and heavy snow loads. If you live in a region with harsh weather conditions, wrought iron fencing could help protect your home or business from damage. In addition, it is easy to maintain. You won't need to paint it, stain it, or install gates.
Vinyl fencing
Vinyl fencing is a great choice for homeowners looking for a fence that will last for many decades. This type of fencing is durable and long lasting, while still being affordable. Vinyl fencing is easy to install and maintain, making it a good option for those who don't have much experience working with wood or metal fences. If privacy is your goal, compare whether vinyl fence is cheaper than wood before you decide.
Chain link fencing
Chain link fences are inexpensive and easy to install. They can be used to enclose areas such as gardens, patios, decks, porches, pools, and yards. They can be installed without digging holes or cutting down trees. They can be purchased at home improvement stores and hardware stores.
Chain link fences come in different sizes and designs. You can choose from chain link fence panels, chain link fence posts, and chain link fence kits. These options allow you to customize the look of your fence.
Chain link fences are usually painted white or light gray. If you want to add color to your fence, you can paint it yourself or hire a professional painter.
You can use chain link fences to keep animals out of certain areas. For example, you can put up a fence around a pool enclosure to prevent dogs from getting into the water. You can also use chain link fences to protect children from running into busy streets.
Chain link fences can be damaged by strong winds or high rainfall. To avoid damage, make sure that the fence is well anchored to the ground. You can do this by installing anchor bolts or concrete footings.
Growing plants on chain link fences will help to create a privacy screen around your property. This way, people outside won't see what goes on inside your backyard. You can plant flowers and shrubs along the fence to give it a natural appearance.
A chain link fence is one of the most affordable ways to build a privacy screen around your yard. However, it does require some upkeep. Make sure to check the instructions included with the kit you purchase. Also, don't forget to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation.
Electric fencing
Electric fencing is an effective method for keeping livestock safe. It works by sending electric current into the ground around the perimeter of an area where animals live. This creates an invisible barrier that keeps people and animals away. But electric fences aren't always easy to install, maintain, or use correctly. They're often too expensive, and they don't work well in some situations.
Stone fencing
Stone fencing is a popular choice amongst homeowners looking to improve the look of their property without breaking the bank. However, it does require some maintenance.
The material used for stone fencing is usually limestone or granite, depending on where you live. Limestone is porous, meaning it absorbs water easily; however, it is resistant to mold and mildew. Granite is harder and less absorbent, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture.
A good rule of thumb is to use stone fencing in areas that are exposed to rain. If you live in a dry climate, consider installing wood fencing instead. Wood fencing requires little upkeep because it doesn't rot like stone fencing.
If you're planning on adding stone fencing to your home, make sure you choose the right type of stone. You'll want to avoid stones that contain iron, such as red sandstone, because they tend to stain over time. Instead, opt for stones that don't contain iron, such as gray marble or white quartzite.
You can also install stone fencing around your pool area. This way, you won't have to worry about people walking across it.
Picket
Pickets are used to enclose areas such as yards, gardens, and parks. They are usually constructed out of wood or metal. These fences are often painted white or black and have picket posts spaced about every four feet apart. A picket fence is typically made up of three rows of pickets. This design allows people to see into the enclosure without being able to enter it.
The most common use of pickets is to keep animals away from certain areas. For example, you might put one around the perimeter of your backyard where children play. You could also install one along the edge of your driveway to prevent pets from getting loose. In some cases, pickets are installed inside a building to separate one area from another.
Picket fencing is very simple to construct. All you really need is a hammer and nails. If you want to make sure that your pickets don't fall over, you'll need to attach them to crosspieces called "rails." Rails are attached to each post. There are several ways to do this. One way is to drill holes in the rails and insert screws. Another method is to use special brackets that connect the rail directly to the post.
If you're thinking of installing a picket fence, consider how much space you have available. Make sure there are no trees or shrubs near the site of the fence. Also, check to make sure that your property lines aren't too close to the fence.
If you decide to build a picket fence, start by choosing the type of material you'd like to use. Wood is probably the best choice because it's easy to work with. However, metal is also a good option. Metal pickets are easier to install and maintain.
You'll also need to determine what color you want the fence. White and black are the most popular choices, but you can choose whatever color you prefer. When picking a color, think about whether you want the fence to blend in with the rest of your landscape or stand out.
Once you've chosen the materials and color, you'll need to figure out how many pickets you'll need. Most picket fences consist of three rows of picket posts. Each row consists of six pickets. So, if you plan to have a fence that measures 12 feet long, you'll need 36 pickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cheaper alternative to a fence? If a full fence is out of budget, common alternatives include dense hedging or shrubs for a natural boundary, a partial or accent fence on only the most exposed side, low-cost chain link, or temporary panels. Each trades off privacy, durability, or appearance, so weigh how long you need it to last before choosing.
Is it cheaper to build a fence or a wall? A fence is almost always cheaper than a masonry wall. Walls require footings, materials like brick or block, and far more labour, which pushes their cost well above even premium fencing. A wall can last longer and offer more sound blocking, but for most GTA backyards a fence delivers privacy and boundary definition at a fraction of the cost.
What are good temporary or budget fencing options? For short-term needs, temporary fence panels, snow fencing, or basic chain link are the usual budget choices. They are quick to install and inexpensive, but they are not built for long-term durability or privacy - if you need the fence for many years, a standard permanent installation is usually the better value.
Ready to explore your fencing options? Contact our team for a free consultation and quote. We serve homeowners throughout the Greater Toronto Area with professional fence installation and repair services.
