The cost of a picket fence is a large consideration for many when enhancing the look of their property. Picket fences are iconic, traditional and a popular choice for adding character and definition to both back and front gardens. Here we will break down the costs of a wooden picket fence, from materials to labour so you know what to expect.
We will also look at how a good picket fence can add curb appeal to your home. By reading this, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions and get the perfect fence for your place.
What is a wooden picket fence?
A wooden picket fence is a traditional type of fence defined by its evenly spaced vertical boards, called “pickets”, which are attached to horizontal rails. This style of wooden fencing is classic and charming and is used to mark property lines or enclose garden areas.
Understanding the costs of wooden picket fence panels
The cost of a wooden picket fence can vary based on several criteria. By understanding these criteria, homeowners can make better decisions and plan their budget when buying a picket-style wooden fence. Material choices, fence size and design will help in estimating costs and choosing an option that fits both your requirements and available budget:
1) Complexity of installation
Installation matters. Fences that require more prep work like grading or uneven ground will cost more to install.
2) Design
Design matters too. Basic straight picket fences are less expensive, custom or decorative panels with intricate patterns or extra features will cost more.
3) Materials
Your fencing material choice is an important factor. Wooden picket fences are cheaper but will need more maintenance over time. Vinyl or metal fence options are more expensive upfront but low maintenance in the long run.
4) Regional labour rates
Local labour rates and material prices too. Market and material availability varies across the UK so prices will differ, particularly closer to the London area.
5) Size
This is another important factor, as costs increase with the size and height of the fence. Larger fences will require more material and labour so the overall cost increases.
Why is wood a popular material used in picket fences?
Wood is a popular material choice for picket fences because of its classic look and versatility, as well as for numerous other reasons. It offers both style and practicality for homeowners, we summarise reasons to buy wooden picket fencing panels below:
- Add curb appeal - a wooden picket fence looks great and adds value to your property. It adds character to your home’s exterior and will be appealing to potential future home buyers
- Classic aesthetic - wood brings a traditional visually appealing style that enhances the charm of any property, it blends in with any garden surroundings. Many homeowners love the timeless look that only wood delivers
- Cost-effective - generally wood is cheaper than other materials and is a budget-friendly option. Wood provides a good balance of both quality and price
- Customisable - wood can be cut, shaped and painted to your design, so you can make it as unique and beautiful as you want. This is difficult to achieve with material types such as composite and metal
- Durable - with proper maintenance, wooden fences last for many years and withstand extreme weather conditions that arise in the UK. This durability provides long-term functionality and value
- Ease of repair - damaged wooden panels can be easily replaced or repaired, which means long-term functionality and use. Wood is a practical choice for homeowners
- Eco-friendly - being a renewable resource, wood is an eco-friendlier option than synthetic materials (e.g. vinyl or composite). Choosing wood reduces reliance on non-renewable resources
- Natural insulation - wood is a natural insulator, it effectively blocks noise and provides increased privacy. It is especially suited for any residential area
- Traditional - wood has a timeless look that many people love and find comforting. It fits with any style of house and landscaping
Breakdown of picket fence installation costs
Here is a breakdown of the likely costs to expect for a standard 6’ wide by 3’ high picket-style fence panel:
- Cost per fence panel - costs from Buy Fencing Direct vary between £30 to £125 per pressure treated timber picket fence panel, see our range here. It is worth mentioning that the majority of our range is £30-£35 per panel, with only our contemporary picket fence panel costing £125 each
- Number of picket fence panels - to calculate the total cost of the picket fencing multiply the panel cost by the number of panels required
- Size of panels – although larger size picket fence panels are available, this cost illustration is for 6’x3’ panels
- The material used – the cost of wood, metal, vinyl or composite affects both the cost and durability of the picket fence. This cost illustration is for wood only
- Design complexity - the more complicated the design the more expensive the panel will be
- Ground preparation - the total cost will include costs for ground levelling, removing existing fencing and preparing the site
- Fence posts – for 6’x3’ picket fence panels, you will need 5’ fence posts, so that 2’ of the post is underground. We recommend two wooden post options being recommended:
We also sell the Forest 6'x6" Lightweight Concrete Fence Post, and also a matching Gravel Board, which is a substantial, deeper option if you are looking to buy concrete posts.
- Fixings and accessories - extra costs will be incurred for screws, brackets, hinges and other fixings
- Treatment and finishes – there is also a cost of timber treatment, painting or staining. This will cost £0 if you use pressure treated timber unless you want to paint or stain for decoration
- Decorative elements – if you want to top the fencing with fence post caps or finials, these will be an extra cost
- Delivery – the cost of delivering the picket panels (Buy Fencing Direct delivery is usually free to most UK postcodes on orders over £100)
Labour costs for picket fencing installation
The expected minimum time to install a picket fence panel is about 45 minutes, this includes time for setting the posts, attaching the panel, and ensuring it is level and secure. Read our DIY picket fence installation guide, for the steps required.
Other picket fence cost factors to consider
Picket fence installation costs for labour will vary based on these factors:
- Multiple panels – it is usual to install multiple picket panels together. This brings “economy of scale” benefits with potential savings of 10%-15% being achievable in the 45 minutes quoted above
- Professional vs. DIY – a DIY approach will do well to complete in 45 minutes. Professional installers will be experienced and have the “tricks of the trade” that only everyday experience brings. This means professionals may complete the installation in anything from 25-40% less time than this 45-minute yardstick estimate
What is the total picket fence cost?
The cost of installing a standard 6’x3’ picket fence panel is summarised below:
|
Description |
Price £ Per Panel |
Notes |
|
Standard 6'x3' picket fence cost per panel |
£35 |
Based on this fence panel here |
|
Ground preparation - debris removal, ground levelling |
£5 |
Assume £5 per panel |
|
Fence Post 5'x3"x3" |
£30 |
Based on buying 2x this fence post at £15 each (one will be needed for each side unless resting against a wall or other solid object) |
|
Concrete for setting posts |
£20 |
Based on £10 each post x2 |
|
Add gravel or shingle into the bottom of the fence post |
£1 |
£1 per post |
|
Fixings and accessories |
£10 |
For screws, nails, brackets, fasteners, |
|
Treatment and finishes |
£10 to £60 |
This varies enormously, between £10 to £60 if required. Wood preservative £10 per panel. Paint between £20 to £60 per panel (for two coats). Wood stain is £10 to £25 per panel. |
|
Decorative elements (caps or finials) |
£4 |
£2 per post x 2 |
|
Delivery |
£0 to £10 |
Delivery per panel, depending on delivery charging policies |
|
Equipment costs |
£0 to £30 |
Price per panel Might need to hire or buy a post hole digger, saw(s), level, concrete mixer (for larger quantities), spade, hammer, screwdrivers, other tools, etc., |
|
Installation |
£0 to £20 |
Assume 45 minutes per panel, for setting the posts, attaching the panel, and ensuring it is level and secure. This time is FREE of cost for DIY installation and c£20 for professional picket fence installation costs is a reasonable price |
|
Total picket fence cost |
£115 to £225 |
|
Ways to reduce the cost of a picket fence
Installing a picket fence is a large expense but there are ways to save and not compromise on quality. By being cost-conscious and making informed decisions you can have a beautiful fence without breaking the bank.
DIY vs professional
Choosing DIY installation will save substantially on picket fence installation costs but will require time, effort and artisan skills to get a good finish. Hiring professionals will cost more upfront but will give you a better and more durable result if you are not assured of your own skills.
Other ways of reducing spend
Here are 6 ways to save on a picket fence installation:
- Borrow tools - instead of buying or hiring
- Buy in bulk - to get discounts and lower unit price
- Choose cheaper wood and designs - avoid fancy designs to save on material cost
- Get help from friends or family - to share the load and save on labour
- Look for sales, specials or promotions - on fencing material to save on purchase
- Opt for basic - instead of fancy or decorative
How a picket fence will add curb appeal
A picket fence is a classic design that looks great in the front garden and around any house. It is traditional, decorative and versatile. Picket fencing will add curb appeal to friends, family, visitors and potential buyers.
Aesthetic appeal benefits
A picket fence is a classic and cute traditional fencing style, it looks good in any garden and adds to the house. The evenly spaced vertical boards and trimmed edges are welcoming and aesthetically appealing and give a sense of tradition and warmth. It is timeless and blends with all types of gardens and houses, from tiny cottages to modern houses.
A picket fence can sit alongside flower beds, lawns and garden features and looks the part. Plus, it can be painted in any colour and finish to match your style, décor and personal preference.
Increasing property value
A picket fence will increase your home’s value and add curb appeal. A well-maintained and looking good fence will attract buyers by presenting the property in a good light and making a good first impression.
Homes with classic features like a picket fence stand out in the property market, so are more desirable to buyers. But homeowners should consider the condition of the fence, the quality of the materials used and how it fits with the overall look of the property. Maintenance and making sure the fence fits with the home’s design is key to maximising its impact on value as is a “lick of paint” at the time of sale.
Final thoughts
Knowing the cost of a picket fence is key for anyone thinking of adding this classic fencing style to their property. From the cost of the picket fence panels to the extra costs of ground preparation, installation and finishing a breakdown will help you budget.
Wooden picket fences are charming and look fabulous, but the cost can vary greatly depending on material quality, design and region. By breaking down the costs and considering DIY or professional help homeowners can make decisions that fit their budget and style.
Borrowing tools or opting for a simpler design will help reduce the picket fence cost even further. However, investing in the best picket fence will improve your home’s curb appeal and value.
Contact information
For more information about the cost of a picket fence and picket fencing tips or to discuss your project get in touch with us using our contact options. Fill in our new contact form on the website or call us at 0333 003 0514. For quick enquiries or live support use the live text chat on our app at the bottom left of the screen. We are here to help with any questions you have about installing a picket fence in a garden.