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myMetal Fence Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost to install metal fencing is £1,300.
- Most jobs take 1 to 2 days to complete.
- NEW! Use our metal fencing cost calculator for an instant estimate.
- A breakdown of pricing information for different types of metal fencing.
- A general overview of the job and factors that affect the price.
- How to find a local metal fence installer using MyJobQuote.
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Metal fencing is popular in the UK. That's because it is secure, hard-wearing, and low-maintenance. Not only that, but iron fencing is also a great choice when you want your garden to look attractive. The fencing designs are varied and can be as simple or ornate as you choose.
This article gives you the average cost for installing the three main types of metal fencing, other costs you might need to consider and how you can save money if you have DIY skills.
When the time comes for you to install metal garden fencing, we can connect you with local metal fencing installers so that you can compare quotes and get the best deal.
£1,300
Table of Contents
- How Much Does a Metal Fence Cost?
- Supply Cost of Metal Fencing
- Additional Costs of Metal Fencing
- Labour Cost of Metal Fencing Installation
- What Impacts the Cost of Metal Fencing?
- Can I Install Metal Fencing as a DIY Job?
- Types of Metal Fencing
- Metal Fencing Alternatives
- Checklist: Hiring a Metal Fence Installer in the UK
- FAQs
How Much Does a Metal Fence Cost?
The average metal fencing installation cost is around £1,300 and varies depending on whether you choose steel fencing, aluminium, or wrought iron.
Wrought iron typically costs more than other types of metal fencing due to its decorative style, while steel is the cheapest as it's easier and quicker to produce.
The average height of a metal fence around a front garden is 3ft, but at the back, it could be 6ft. If you are fencing in the front of your house, for example, you might need around 30 feet of metal fencing. The chart below will give you the metal fencing costs for 18ft at 3ft high (front) and 30ft at 6ft high (rear).
Metal Fencing Prices
| Type of Metal Fencing | Cost per foot | Total cost of 18ft front garden | Total cost of 30ft back garden |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wrought Iron | £65–£300 | £1,150–£5,400 | £1,950–£9,000 |
| Aluminium | £50–£100 | £900–£1,800 | £1,500–£3,000 |
| Steel | £22–£75 | £395–£1,350 | £660–£2,250 |
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Metal Fencing Cost Calculator
Supply Cost of Metal Fencing
Fence Posts
When it's time to buy your metal fencing you also have to include the costs of the posts and metal gates, if you intend to add one while having your fencing installed. Here are some additional costs involved with each type of metal.
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Wrought Iron Fences
Wrought iron is malleable and strong which means it can be moulded into various designs and is built to last. The material is highly resistant to corrosion and rust and is an ideal solution for areas with varying weather conditions.
If it is maintained by regular coating and painting, a wrought iron fence will last for decades. It appeals to homeowners throughout the UK because it also has great aesthetic appeal. You can purchase wrought iron fences that are designed with intricate detail giving your property kerb appeal.
Many wrought iron fences and gates are made to order and therefore it is difficult to give an average figure as no one size fits all. The price will depend on the size and the design. A complex design will cost more than something straightforward.
We, however, estimate that the cost of installing wrought iron fencing will be between £1,150 and £9,000. On top of these costs, you will also need to buy posts. For example, if you buy 6 panels for fencing you will need 7 posts. One at each end and one between each panel. Wrought iron fencing posts cost between £100 and £150.
Aluminium Fences
Aluminium is a lightweight but strong material. It requires little maintenance and will last for around 25 years. There is a choice of colours. You can also choose different designs from solid panels to timber-look slats.
We estimate that the average price for aluminium fencing is between £900 and £3,000 depending on the size of the fencing. Fence posts in aluminium range between £95 and £125.
Steel Fences
Steel is a popular and cost-effective material that's strong, resistant to rust and can be designed to look like wrought iron. Steel is also low maintenance and recyclable, so it's an environmentally friendly option.
Steel fencing costs between £395 and £2,250 to install. Posts for steel fencing are between £45 and £55.
Price per Fence Post
| Type of Fencing | Price per post |
|---|---|
| Wrought Iron | £100–£150 |
| Aluminium | £95–£125 |
| Steel | £45–£55 |
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Additional Costs of Metal Fencing
Fence Paint Cost
If you have purchased a new metal fence, then the likelihood is that it will come already coated or painted. But if you have bought second-hand fencing then it may need a freshen-up with a coat of paint.
First of all, you will need to scrape off any old paint and rust. After that sand down the fencing until you have a clean, smooth finish. The fence is then ready for a coat of oil-based primer. Apply this and wait for it to dry. Now the fencing is ready for you to paint.
Paint per panel is between £5 and £8 and labour will be between £125 and £175 a day depending on the complexity of the job and where you live. The work will take between half a day and 2 days.
Ground Preparation Cost
Ground posts are usually set to a depth of 2 feet and then they are set with concrete. That means you'll need to buy concrete. The amount you need will depend on the number of posts you are using. For example, If you have a 30 ft fence you will need 6 posts and 200kg of cement post mix which will cost around £48.
Gravel Boards Cost
Gravel boards aren't an essential item. But many people choose to have them installed because they slot underneath your panel fencing and protect it from the wet ground, insects, and debris. Metal gravel boards for a 30-foot fence, that's five in total, will cost between £110 and £165.
| Type of Metal | Size of Fencing | Cost for 7 metal posts | Cement | Cost for 5 Metal Gravel Boards | Total Cost for extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wrought Iron | 30 feet | £700–£1,050 | £48 | £110–£165 | £860–£1,250 |
| Aluminium | 30 feet | £665–£875 | £48 | £110–£165 | £825–£1,100 |
| Steel | 30 feet | £315–£385 | £48 | £110–£165 | £475–£600 |
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Removal of Old Fencing Cost
If you wish your old fencing to be removed because you are going to replace it, a fencing installer may offer this service. The average cost for fence removal is between £6 and £8 a panel. If you have 6 panels, then the cost for removal will be between £36 and £48.
If you then want to dispose of the fencing, you may need to hire a skip. Skip hire costs on average range from £60 to £440 for a mini skip up to a skip that holds the equivalent of 120 bin bags.
The average size for garden material is a 4–5-yard skip which costs between £100 and £250.
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Labour Cost of Metal Fencing Installation
Labour costs to install metal fencing will vary depending on the type of fencing you want, where you live and the complexity of the installation. But on average the costs for installing a fence are between £35 and £55 per hour.
A 60-foot fence for example will take a day to install with labour costs at between £280 and £440 whereas a 200-foot back garden fence will take between 2 and 3 days. The costs in this case would be between £560 and £880 if the job took 2 days. If the job took 3 days, then the cost would be between £840 and £1,300.
| Size of Fence | Time to Install | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 60 feet | 1 day | £280–£440 |
| 130 feet | 2 days | £560–£880 |
| 200 feet | 3 days | £840–£1,300 |
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What Impacts the Cost of Metal Fencing?
As you can see from the information and the charts, the cost of metal fencing depends on a number of factors:
- Location — Labour will be more expensive in London and the South East where costs are higher. If you live in the Midlands and the North, then labour costs may be at the lower end of the scale.
- Design and Metal Type — The design, metal type and complexity of the type of fencing you want will also influence the cost.
- Size — It will be cheaper to have a small fence installed in your front garden because there is less fencing used. A back garden fence is usually longer and higher so it will cost more.
Extras You Might Want to Add
You might also want other work completed at the same time as you have your metal fencing installed.
Here are some prices to help you with your budget:
| Tradesman | Average Cost Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fence Installer | £35–£55 |
| Painter | £15–£40 |
| Gardener | £15–£45 |
| Electrician | £50–£120 |
| Builder | £20–£35 |
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Adding a Gate
Part of a fencing installation might also include the addition of a new gate. The cost of a metal gate will depend on the size, the design, and the material you use.
If you choose a 3ft metal gate you are looking at between £60 and £300. A 4ft gate will be between £100 and £800 and a large 6ft gate will cost between £110 and £1,000.
Metal gates for a driveway including posts will cost around £700 and take up to 2 days to fit.
If the cost of the gate does not include fitting, then a handyperson should be able to fit the gate for you. An average metal gate will cost between £150 and £200 to hang. A metal gate for a driveway will be between £300 and £400.
If you decide to install electric gates, then the costs to buy will be between £900 and £5,500 depending on the size of the gate.
Building a Wall
Many front gardens have metal fencing placed on top of a wall. It looks attractive and it means you can spend less on fencing. The costs will depend on what size garden brick wall you build and the type of bricks you use.
For example, the cost to build a 16-foot wall that's 4 ft in height is:
- Using Machine Made Bricks: £530 to £745.
- With Hand Made Bricks: £655 to £1,200.
- Using Reclaimed Bricks: £615 to £1,150.
The labour costs for building a wall of this size will be between £440 and £600 and the job will take around 2 days to complete.
Can I Install Metal Fencing as a DIY Job?
We highly recommend that you hire a professional installer for the following reasons:
- Correct Post Depth and Footings — If this is done incorrectly, the fence can come loose over time.
- Checking for Pipes and Cables — A professional metal fencing installer will know how to check for any underground pipes and cables before digging post holes.
- Specialist Tools — Cutting, welding, or levelling metal fencing typically needs equipment most homeowners don't have.
- An Even Finish — Getting your metal fence panels level and evenly spaced can be tricky, especially on uneven ground.
- Safety — Metal fence panels are heavy and can have sharp edges, so there's a higher risk of injury without the right experience. Wrought iron fencing often needs two people to install.
With MyJobQuote you can request several quotes from local metal fencing installers. It's fast, free, and there's no obligation to go ahead.
Types of Metal Fencing
When it comes to choosing your metal fencing there is a variety you can pick. These are:
Chain Link Fences
Chain link fencing is made from coated steel wire that is galvanised or PVC. It usually comes in a diamond design, and is often used around parks or school grounds.
Chain link fencing is a low-cost option that's lightweight and easy to install.
Ornamental Iron Fences
Ornamental iron can come from wrought iron or wrought-iron lookalikes made from steel. Wrought iron fencing is usually made by hand so bespoke designs are possible. If you choose a cheaper steel option, there are still plenty of designs to choose from. A search on Google images will show a wide range of styles for fencing and gates.
Steel Panel Fences
Most metal fencing panels are made with galvanised steel and finished off with a plastic coating. They come in a variety of colours, and they are a popular choice for people who want complete privacy. They are also strong, weather-resistant and rust-proof.
Barbed Wire Fences
Barbed wire is made from high-tensile galvanised steel and then coated with PVC. It's usually sold in coils in green or silver.
You'll often see barbed wire around farmer's fields as it keeps livestock from escaping and deters intruders.
Metal Fencing Alternatives
You might decide to install another type of fencing instead of metal. These are the fencing types you could look at as alternatives:
Timber Fencing
Timber fencing is popular because it comes in so many styles and designs. It's also cheap to buy if you choose a standard, straightforward design. Wood normally requires staining, and you will have to carry out regular maintenance.
Composite Fencing
Composite fencing is a mix of wood fibres and plastic. It is made to look like wood, with a modern finish, and is simple to install. Composite fencing is a popular low-maintenance option, but doesn't have the appeal of wood.
Natural Fencing
Natural fencing is made from bamboo, reed, or wicker. It suits a home that wants a traditional look, but is not as strong as other fence types. Whilst resistant to water, it doesn't stand up too well to windy weather.
| Style Of Fencing | Average Cost for 4ft Panel | Average Cost for 5ft Panel | Average Cost for 6ft Panel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Miss Panels (Timber) | £50–£60 | £60–£80 | £70–£80 |
| Jaktop (Timber) | £50–£70 | £60–£80 | £75–£100 |
| Lap Panel/Waney Edge/Traditional (Timber) | £20–£30 | £25–£35 | £30–£40 |
| Palisade/Picket Fencing (Timber) | £20–£30 | £20–£30 | £20–£30 |
| Composite Fencing | £110–£115 | £120–£130 | £120–£130 |
| Natural Fencing | £30–£40 | £40–£50 | £50–£70 |
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Checklist: Hiring a Metal Fence Installer in the UK
Consider these key points before hiring a contractor to install your metal fence:
- Are they a member of the Association of Fencing Industries (AFI)? The AFI is the leading UK trade association for fencing professionals, and membership shows a commitment to industry standards.
- Do they have public liability insurance? This protects you if something goes wrong or gets damaged during your metal fencing installation.
- Will they provide an itemised quote? Ask for a breakdown of your metal fencing costs so you know exactly what's included and whether there are any additional fees.
- Is removal of the old fencing included? Confirm that taking away and disposing of your existing fence is included in the total cost quoted.
- Are they experienced with metal fencing? Find out how long they've been installing metal fences specifically, as this differs from timber or composite work.
- Do they have examples of similar work? Ask to see before and after photos, or check their MyJobQuote profile for previous metal fencing installations.
- Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile for feedback from previous metal fencing customers.
FAQs
Do You Need Planning Permission to Install a Metal Fence?
Planning permission isn't usually needed for a wall or fence as long as the following conditions are met:
- It does not exceed one metre in height if the fence is next to a highway used by vehicles.
- The height does not exceed 2 metres if it is located away from a highway.
- The location is not part of a listed building or in a conservation area.
Are There Any Building Regulations for Metal Fencing?
Building regulations don't apply to the installation of a metal fence in most cases. If the wall is classed as a boundary wall and is shared with your neighbour, you will need to notify your neighbours about the work.
What Is the Most Cost-Effective Metal To Use for Fencing?
The most cost-effective metal is steel. It is now used widely for metal fencing and gates because it is strong, low maintenance and weather-proof.
How Long Does Metal Fencing Last?
Metal fencing is a good choice if you want something long-lasting. The average metal fence will usually last between 25 and 35 years. Wrought Iron fencing however can last decades.
What Maintenance Does Metal Fencing Need?
Like most things, your metal fencing will last much longer if you take care of it. Regular cleaning will help to keep the paintwork bright. If you see any rust, then remove it as soon as possible. Re-paint chipped areas and grease gate hinges.
