Homeowners typically pay a wide range for redwood fence projects depending on board grade, height, terrain, and installation. The main cost factors are material quality, labor time, and added components such as gates or hardware. This article provides practical price ranges in USD and explains what drives each entry on the bill.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material only per foot | $12 | $18 | $28 | Includes boards caps and rails for typical 6 ft tall fence |
| Labor per foot | $8 | $14 | $22 | Decking style and terrain affect hours |
| Gate per gate | $350 | $550 | $900 | Standard 3 ft to 4 ft walk gate |
| Permits and fees | $0 | $75 | $350 | Variable by city and zoning |
| Delivery and/or disposal | $0 | $2 | $6 | Small loads may be free with installation |
| Total project range per linear ft | $18 | $34 | $60 | Assumes standard 6 ft fence with occasional gates |
| Assumptions | Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours. | |||
Overview Of Costs
Redwood fence pricing combines material quality with labor intensity and site specifics. For a typical 6 ft tall privacy style, expect the overall per foot range to cover boards, posts, rails, fasteners, and finish. A common rule is to estimate total in the mid range for most yards and push to the high side if terrain is steep or the grade requires extra leveling. The per foot cost often translates to a fence that runs the length of the property with a standard 5 to 6 ft setback from sidewalks or driveways. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
Material and labor combine to form the bulk of the cost. The breakdown below uses a typical 100 ft segment to illustrate how components stack up. The table uses both totals and per unit figures to help with budgeting. Keep in mind that tall fences and custom rails can raise prices quickly, while recycled or high grade material can raise or lower costs depending on supply.
| Column | Materials | Labor | Permits | Delivery | Warranty | Taxes | Contingency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estimated cost for 100 ft | $1,800–$2,800 | $1,400–$2,200 | $0–$350 | $0–$600 | $150–$400 | $0–$200 | $250–$600 |
| Cost per linear ft | $18–$28 | $14–$22 | $0–$3.50 | $0–$6 | $1.50–$4 | $0–$2 | $2.50–$6 |
What Drives Price
Material grade and fence height are top price drivers. Redwood comes in various grades from common to heartwood select, with heartwood typically costing more but offering better durability and color. Height affects post spacing and the number of boards required. Terrain also matters; uneven ground may require extra leveling and trenching. Local labor rates vary with demand, and longer runs increase equipment and crew time. The presence of gates, decorative toppers, or built in planters adds to both material and labor budgets.
Factors That Affect Price
Quality, sizing, and site conditions impact final numbers. The main pricing levers include board width and species choice, post diameter and spacing, stain or sealant use, and whether hardware is stainless steel or galvanized. SEER like performance matters for any integrated features such as privacy lattices or decorative rails. The pitch of slopes and the need for temporary access roads can raise labor costs. Expect higher quotes in urban markets with higher permit and disposal fees.
Ways To Save
Plan for cross between value and durability to optimize spend. Choose standard 6 ft fencing with straight runs and avoid custom arches or ornate posts. If gates are needed, consider one standard gate instead of multiple specialty openings. Scheduling in spring or fall can avoid peak season surcharges. Buying material in bulk or using a local yard with steady supply may reduce per foot costs. Consider staining after installation to extend life instead of expensive pre finished boards.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor market and material supply. In the Northeast, higher ship and permit costs can push totals toward the upper end. The Midwest tends to balance between cost and availability, often resulting in mid range quotes. The West Coast may show higher materials cost and stricter code compliance impacts, with a tendency toward the high end of ranges. Rough deltas show plus or minus 10 to 20 percent from national averages depending on city and terrain.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor time grows with fence height and site complexity. A simple 6 ft fence on flat ground may require 6–8 hours for a 100 ft run, while hilly or obstructed property can take 12–16 hours or more. Crew size commonly ranges from 2 to 4 workers, with a typical hourly rate of $55 to $85. Include set up and site protection for plants or hardscape nearby, which adds to the hours logged and the overall day rate.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs can surprise if not planned. Concrete footings or anti-rot treatments may add to upfront costs. Access restrictions or material miscounts lead to extra trips and delivery charges. If existing posts need removal or repairs, expect additional labor. Gate hardware upgrades, weatherproof coatings, or warranty extensions can push the price beyond initial estimates. Always request a line by line quote outlining materials, labor, permits, and disposal.
Real World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes under common conditions. These snapshots assume a standard privacy fence with a single gate and basic staining. Each card lists specs, hours, per unit costs, and totals to help buyers compare options quickly.
Basic
Specs: 90 ft of 6 ft redwood fence, one 3 ft gate, standard grade boards, no decorative features. Labor hours: 8–10. Materials: $1,100–$1,600. Labor: $900–$1,500. Gate: $350. Total: $2,350–$3,450. Per ft: $26–$38.
Mid-Range
Specs: 120 ft of 6 ft privacy fence, two gates, select grade hearts, basic lattice topper optional. Labor hours: 14–18. Materials: $2,000–$2,900. Labor: $1,900–$2,900. Gates: $700–$1,300. Total: $4,600–$7,100. Per ft: $38–$60.
Premium
Specs: 150 ft of 6 ft heartwood redwood, three decorative gates, higher grade boards, finish coat. Labor hours: 20–26. Materials: $3,200–$4,800. Labor: $2,800–$3,900. Gates: $1,050–$1,800. Delivery/Disposal: $0–$700. Total: $7,850–$11,200. Per ft: $52–$75.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.