Homeowners typically pay a per-foot price for redwood fencing that covers materials, labor, and basic hardware. The exact cost per foot depends on grade, board width, height, and local labor rates. This article breaks down the price drivers and offers practical ranges to help budget a redwood fence project.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material cost per ft | $8 | $12 | $18 | Includes boards and posts for standard 6 ft panels |
| Labor cost per ft | $6 | $9 | $14 | Typical install crew, Midwest to South regions |
| Hardware per ft | $1 | $2 | $4 | Fasteners, nails, brackets, caps |
| Total installed per ft | $15 | $23 | $36 | Sum of materials, labor, hardware |
| Project affect factors | – | – | – | Terrain, gates, finish, permits |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard redwood boards, typical 6 ft privacy panels, level terrain, no major gate work.
Typical Redwood Fence Cost Per Foot
For a standard 6-foot privacy fence using redwood, buyers usually see a material price around $8-$12 per linear foot for boards and posts. Labor adds about $6-$9 per foot, and basic hardware brings another $1-$2 per foot. As a result, installed costs typically range from $15 to $23 per foot on average. Higher grades, premium finishes, or complex layouts raise the per-foot cost into the $28-$36 range or more in expensive markets.
Material Costs by Redwood Grade and Board Width
Redwood comes in several grades (clear, select, standard) and widths (5/4, 6/4, or 8/4 board stock). Clear or select grades fetch higher per-foot prices than standard boards. A typical break-even looks like this:
| Grade | Board Width | Material Cost Per Foot | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clear | 6 in | $11-$15 | Minimal knots, tighter grain |
| Select | 5/4 in | $9-$13 | Balanced performance and price |
| Standard | 6 in | $8-$12 | Knots permitted, common hardware costs extra |
| Accent/Patterned | Varied | $12-$18 | Decorative rails, features raise price |
Assumptions: standard fence height, level lot, typical posts at 8 ft spacing, no decorative caps or flowering trims.
Labor Rates and Install Time for Redwood Fences
Labor costs vary by region and crew efficiency. A midrange crew in the U.S. typically charges $9-$14 per foot for installation, including setting posts, attaching rails, and finishing. A small project (100-200 ft) may take 2-4 days, while larger installations can extend to 1-2 weeks for multi-section runs with gates. Expect higher rates in coastal cities or areas with skilled carpenters.
Mini formula:
Project Size and Scope: How It Moves the Price Per Foot
Project scope shifts materially impact the per-foot price. A 150 ft run is usually cheaper per foot than many smaller jobs due to setup efficiency. Adding a gate, curved sections, or custom posts increases complexity and cost. For a 100 ft fence with one gate, anticipate near the lower end of the per-foot ranges; for 400 ft with two gates and decorative caps, pushes toward the high end.
Regional Price Variations Across the United States
Prices reflect regional labor markets and material transport costs. West Coast regions, high-cost metro areas, and remote zones can see +10% to +40% above national averages. The Midwest and Southern states typically land near the baseline ranges. Regional deltas matter more than brand name when comparing quotes.
Example deltas: West Coast +$2-$4 per ft on materials; Northeast +$1-$3 per ft on labor; South +$0-$2 per ft on materials.
Common Add-Ons That Change the Per-Foot Price
Gates, cap rails, lattice extensions, and specialized stains or sealants can materially alter the cost per foot. A single 4-6 ft gate often adds $350-$800 to the project. Stain or sealant applied after installation typically adds $0.50-$1.50 per square foot of fencing coverage, depending on the finish and color depth. Delivery or disposal of old fencing may add a separate line item.
Ways to Reduce Redwood Fence Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
Control scope and timing to lock in lower rates. Consider using standard widths and heights, avoiding ornate post caps, and choosing a durable yet economical stain. Scheduling installation in off-peak months can shave a few dollars per foot. For long runs, combine multiple short stretches into a single project to improve efficiency. Ask for a per-foot price with no minimum charge to avoid hidden fees.
Quote Breakdown: What a Redwood Fence Proposal Looks Like
A typical quote itemizes materials, labor, and hardware, plus any permits or disposal fees. The following example mirrors common regional bids:
| Category | Low | Average | High | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $8.00 | $12.00 | $18.00 | Redwood boards, posts, rails |
| Labor | $6.00 | $9.00 | $14.00 | Framing, hanging, alignment |
| Hardware | $1.00 | $2.00 | $4.00 | Nails, screws, brackets, caps |
| Gates | $350.00 | $550.00 | $800.00 | One standard gate |
| Permits/Delivery | $50.00 | $100.00 | $300.00 | Local permit where required |
| Total Installed | $15.00 | $23.00 | $36.00 | Per linear foot depending on scope |
Assumptions: standard single-story fence, level ground, no major obstacles, interior suburban site.