Why fence quotes differ
Two fence quotes for the same yard can be far apart, and both can be fair. One may include removing the old fence and setting posts in concrete; the other may not. This guide doesn't give a price range. It walks through the items that make up a fence quote, so you can tell whether two quotes describe the same fence.
Length and height
Fences are priced mostly by the linear foot, and height changes both the material and the labor. A tall privacy fence needs more boards, sturdier posts and more care with wind than a low picket fence.
Material
Wood, vinyl, aluminum, steel and chain link each have their own material cost and labor. Within wood, the grade of the boards and whether posts are rated for ground contact change the price and the fence's life.
Posts
Posts are the part of a fence you can't easily fix later.
- Depth and setting. Deeper posts and posts set in concrete cost more than shallow posts in packed soil. NOAA's data for the nearest station, at Fort Bragg/Simmons Army Airfield, lists a 50-year basic wind speed of 90 mph and a 100-year rainfall rate of 3.8 inches per hour; solid fences in windy, wet weather need posts that stay put.
- Spacing. Closer spacing means more posts and more holes.
- Digging conditions. Roots, rock and old concrete footings slow the auger.
Gates
Each gate adds posts, hardware and labor. Wide driveway gates or double gates cost much more than a single walk gate. Ask what hinges and latches are included.
Removal and haul-away
Taking down an old fence, pulling or cutting old posts and hauling the debris are often listed separately, or left out entirely.
Site conditions
Septic and wells. Moore County's Health Department permits septic systems and private wells. Where a fence has to route around a drainfield or well, the layout can need more posts, more corners or hand-dug holes. Mark these before you get quotes, so every company prices the same layout.
Slopes. Fences on slopes are either stepped or racked to follow the ground, and both take more time than a flat run.
Clearing. Brush or small trees along the line add labor.
Approvals and permits
If your neighborhood or the village requires approval or a permit, ask whether the company prepares the submission and whether that's included. Delays waiting for approval can affect scheduling.
Finishing
Wood fences may need stain or sealer. Ask whether it's included and when it should be applied.
The license line
The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors says a general contractor must hold a state license when the total cost of a project is $40,000 or more. Most fence jobs cost less. If a fence is part of a larger project, look at the total and check the license on the board's search.
Putting quotes side by side
Make a table with a row for each item above and a column for each company. Fill in the material, post depth and setting method, the gates, removal, approvals and finish for each quote. Compare totals only once the rows match.