Question 1

How to write an estimate for a fence?

Accepted Answer

Start by measuring total linear feet around the property perimeter. Calculate post quantities (divide linear feet by 6-8 foot spacing), panels or boards needed, and concrete bags (2-3 per post). Add gate costs separately since they require more hardware. Include labor hours based on terrain - flat ground takes 8-12 hours per 100 feet, difficult terrain takes longer. Factor in old fence removal if applicable. Add permit fees, material markup (20-30%), and profit margin. Present itemized costs with payment terms and timeline.

Question 2

How to calculate the cost of a fence?

Accepted Answer

Multiply total linear feet by your per-foot rate for the fence type. Chain link typically runs $10-18 per foot installed, wood privacy fence costs $18-35 per foot, vinyl ranges $25-45 per foot, and metal panels cost $30-55+ per foot. Add gate costs ($200-700 each depending on size and style), old fence removal ($3-6 per foot), and permit fees. Labor usually accounts for 40-50% of total project cost. Always visit the site to check terrain and access before finalizing numbers.

Question 3

What should be included in a fence estimate?

Accepted Answer

Include business contact info, property address, estimate date with expiration, total linear footage, fence height and style, material specifications, post spacing, concrete requirements, gate details, labor breakdown, removal costs if applicable, permits, payment terms, project timeline, and warranty. Itemize everything so clients understand exactly what they are paying for.

Question 4

How many fence posts do I need?

Accepted Answer

Divide total linear feet by post spacing (typically 6-8 feet). For 150 linear feet with 8-foot spacing: 150 ÷ 8 = 19 posts, plus add posts for corners and gate locations. Wood fences typically use 6-8 foot spacing, chain link uses 8-10 feet, and vinyl uses 6-8 feet. Always round up and add extras for corners, gates, and grade changes.

Question 5

How long does fence installation take?

Accepted Answer

A two-person crew typically installs 50-80 linear feet per day for wood privacy fencing on flat terrain. Chain link goes faster at 80-120 feet per day. Vinyl and metal panels fall somewhere between. Difficult terrain with rocks, slopes or tree roots can cut production in half. Post hole digging is the most time-consuming part.

Question 6

Should I charge per linear foot or flat rate?

Accepted Answer

Per-linear-foot pricing is industry standard and easiest for clients to understand. It scales naturally with project size. Flat rates work better for small repair jobs or complex projects with significant terrain challenges. Most fencing contractors use per-foot pricing for new installations and hourly or flat rates for repairs.

Question 7

Do I need a permit to install a fence?

Accepted Answer

Most cities require permits for fences over 6 feet tall or for front yard fencing. HOA communities often have additional restrictions on height, style and materials. Always check local codes and HOA rules before providing an estimate. Include permit costs in your pricing and note who handles the permit process.

Free Fence Estimate Template

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Everything You Need in a Estimate Template

Linear Foot Calculator

Material Tracking

Labor Cost Estimator

How to Use This Fence Estimate Template

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Measure Property

Calculate Materials

Add Labor & Markup

Fence Estimating Best Practices

Walk the Property

Verify Property Lines

Account for Gates

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