If you need to replace or install a fence, PVC fencing can be a practical option as it's strong, affordable and easy to maintain. Read this guide to find out how much PVC fencing costs to buy and the cost to install PVC fencing professionally.
How Much Does Pvc Fencing Cost?
The cost of PVC fencing comes down to the style and size of the fence. Standard prices for PVC fencing in Australia are:
$50 to $90 per metre for picket fencing, the higher end of the scale for more elaborate profiles
$80 to $100 per metre for semi-private fences with slats instead of solid panels
$80 to $110 per metre for privacy fences with solid panels, higher prices having more detailing
$40 to $110 or more per metre for rural fencing, starting at $40 for a two-rail fence, $48 for a three-rail fence or $55 for a four-rail fence
Balustrades cost between $50 and $80 per metre.
The cost of a new fence will also include posts, rails, pickets, rails and solid or slatted fills. Gates and arbours are also available, and their cost will depend on the supplier.
How Much Does It Cost To Install PVC Fencing?
PVC fencing is made to fit together quickly and can be put up faster than some other fences. Still, it's best to get estimates from local PVC fence builders to ensure it's put up correctly.
The cost to install PVC fencing in Australia is between:
$55 to $145 per metre for picket fencing
$70 to $150 per metre for semi-private fencing
$70 to $180 per metre for privacy fencing
$25 to $70 per metre for rural fencing
The combined cost to install PVC fencing and supply the fence should be around:
$105 to $235 per metre for picket fencing
$150 to $250 per metre for semi-private fencing
$150 to $290 per metre for privacy fencing
$65 to $180+ per metre for rural fencing.
What is PVC Fencing?
PVC fencing is often confused with vinyl fencing. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride and is tougher than plain vinyl, which is why it's used as a fencing material. If you see "vinyl" fencing, find out if it's PVC because sometimes vinyl and PVC are used interchangeably.
PVC fences are a modern alternative to traditional timber fences. Timber fences have been with us for hundreds of years, but a PVC fence can look precisely like timber and will last far longer while also costing less in the long term.
PVC fencing is suitable for DIY installation because all components are made to fit together easily. Posts are often reinforced and should be set 600mm to 900mm deep in concrete. If you're careful with the measurements, once the posts are installed, you should be able to easily install the rails, pickets and solid panels or slats.
Rural PVC fencing can be easily electrified if needed. PVC does not conduct electricity so wires can be strung through the fencing.
Benefits of PVC fencing
PVC fencing has several advantages over timber fencing that could make it the best choice for your home. Benefits of PVC fencing include:
Higher tensile strength than wood
Non-toxic compared to some types of fencing
Won't need repainting
UV resistant so that it won't fade
Non-porous, so mould can't grow on it
Termite resistant
It can last for up to 50 years, versus 10 to 15 years for wood fences
While PVC fencing costs more than timber fencing initially, PVC is more cost-effective in the long term. Over 20 years, a PVC fence can cost less than half the cost of a timber fence because it doesn't need to be painted, and you won't have to replace rotting posts or rails.
Once installed, PVC fencing is deficient maintenance. PVC stands up to saltwater much better than other fencing materials and the sun's UV rays. To clean a PVC fence, you must wash it with a wet rag, and all traces of dirt will be gone.
Drawbacks of PVC fencing
The main downside of PVC fencing is that extreme cold can cause the PVC to warp. However, this requires colder temperatures than are experienced in most Australian climates, including snow areas.
Other possible negatives can include the following:
Not a natural material like timber, which may be unappealing
Algae, mould and mildew may stain the fence without regular cleaning
PVC fencing costs more than other fencing options initially
Read more: PVC Fencing vs Wood Fencing.
How To Choose a PVC Fencing
Not all PVC fencing is made alike. To choose the proper fencing for your home or project, you should compare aspects including:
Colours
Styles
Warranty
Colours
PVC fencing is available in a range of colours. White, tan, black, woodgrain and grey are the most popular colours, but some suppliers may offer a wider choice of up to 35 colours. Colours may also be combined for a more striking fence.
Styles
Picket fences and privacy fences can come in a range of styles. Picket fences can be straight, curved or angled, and the posts have decorative tops. Privacy fences can be plain or have latticed or picket tops, while semi-private PVC fences can have different slats. Most rural fences are just two, three or four rail fences with little detailing.
Warranty
Warranties for PVC fencing can be 20, 25, 30 or up to 50 years. Getting PVC fencing with a more extended warranty period is a good idea, even if it costs a little extra.
Choosing a PVC fence can take some consideration, but once you've chosen a fence you like, it will be almost maintenance-free and won't likely need painting or repairing. When the fence is dirty, simply wash it and use a wet cloth to remove dirt and grime.
*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces. Contact us today to know the PVC fencing cost details for your home.