Installing a timber fence is a big home improvement project that gives both aesthetic appeal and functional value to your property. Timber fencing provides privacy, security, and durability, while adding to the visual character of your outdoor space.
Before you go ahead with an installation, though, it’s important to budget properly, considering the types of timber available, costs, and long-term maintenance. In this guide, we will go into detailed insights as to how you can effectively budget for timber fence installation and choose the best materials for your needs.
the Different Timber Types for Fencing
The cost, durability, and appearance of your fence is largely dependent on the type of timber you choose. Here are the timber options available, each offering unique qualities suited for different environments and design preferences:
1. Spotted Gum
Spotted Gum is one of Australia’s most popular hardwoods, prized for its strength, durability, and attractive wavy grain. It’s strong natural resistance to termites and decay makes it essential for applications such as fencing. Also, Spotted Gum has a broad color spectrum from light brown through to deep red-brown, which allows for a wide range of design applications.
2. Ironbark
One of the hardest and most durable hardwoods in Australia, Ironbark is fire, weather, and termite resistant, with a rich, reddish-brown colour. Ironbark is a premium fencing choice for harsh climates. It is a long-lasting material, but it is also a more expensive material than softer timbers due to its longevity and strength.
3. Blackbutt
Blackbutt is known for its light, honey-coloured tones and is a durable, fire-resistant hardwood. This timber is particularly well suited to bushfire-prone areas and is a popular choice in Australia’s hotter regions. Blackbutt’s strength and natural beauty make it a beautiful choice for modern or traditional fencing designs.
4. Tallowwood
Tallowwood is particularly prized for its durability, especially in regions with a humid, coastal climate where weathering is a concern. It is a practical, visually appealing fencing material due to its natural resistance to decay, termites, and moisture. The timber has a unique colour variation from yellowish-brown to olive green.
5. Oregon (Douglas Fir)
A softwood which is popular because it is light and easy to work with. Oregon is not as durable as hardwoods but is easier to work with and takes finish well. Plus, it is a cost-effective choice for fencing in areas with milder weather.
6. Cypress
Cypress is a cost-effective timber that is naturally resistant to termites. It has a distinctive grain pattern and pale yellowish color which develops character over time. Thanks to this, it’s a popular choice for those who want durability at a more affordable price.
Timber Fence Finishes
The finish of your timber fence will determine how it looks and how long it lasts. There’s a plethora of finishes that both preserve the timber from the outside elements and allow the natural beauty of the timber to shine. These finishes can also provide a custom aesthetic to your fence.
Available Finishes:
- Shou Sugi Ban Charred Finish: This is an ancient Japanese technique of charring the timber to a blackened, carbonized surface which provides enhanced moisture, pest, and fire protection. It also delivers a dramatic modern aesthetic.
- Natural Finish: A simple treatment with no finish, that highlights the grain and texture of the timber. The timber needs to be well maintained to keep it protected from weathering.
- Rough Sawn or Wire Brushed: These finishes give the timber a rustic, textured look. Rough sawn timber has a rugged appearance, and wire-brushed timber shows more of the grain detail and is a more refined but still natural texture.
- Clear Oiled Finish: The timber’s natural colour is preserved by a clear oil, which also protects from UV and moisture. The finish must be re-applied periodically to keep its luster.
- Greyskin Recycled Finish: This finish achieves a weathered, reclaimed visual that is perfect for anyone who is after an aged and rustic look with no extra upkeep.
- Weathered Edge: A nice finish that adds a rustic, aged aesthetic with the added bonus of increased durability. Done properly, it looks almost exactly how naturally weathered and exposed timber would look.
Timber Fence Installation Budgeting Considerations
| Factor | Description | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Timber Species | Premium hardwoods (e.g., Ironbark, Spotted Gum) are more durable but costlier than softwoods. | Higher upfront cost, lower maintenance |
| Fence Length | Longer fences require more materials and labor. | Increases total project cost |
| Fence Height | Taller fences offer privacy but require additional materials. | Adds 10%–20% to material and labor cost |
| Finish Type | Finishes like Shou Sugi Ban or Clear Oiled provide longevity but add to upfront expenses. | $10–$30 per linear meter |
| Labor Complexity | Custom designs or uneven terrains increase installation time and difficulty. | Elevated labor costs |
| Post Material and Spacing | Options like weathered or recycled posts vary in cost, and spacing impacts the number needed. | Adjusts material costs |
Costs for timber fence installation are determined by several factors, including the type of timber, the finish, and the cost of labour. Here are some key considerations when creating a budget for your project:
1. Timber Species
The cost of timber will depend on what species you choose. Ironbark and Spotted Gum, being hardwoods, tend to be more costly but bring greater durability; thus, the cost of repair or replacement diminishes. Oregon is softer, more affordable, but it will need to be treated to prevent weathering and pests.
2. Size of the Fence
Obviously, the size and length of your fence will affect the total cost. The more timber and labor involved in construction—the larger the fences or the greater the area they cover—the higher the investment.
3. Installation and Labor
It is recommended you have your fence professionally installed to make sure it is built to last. DIY installation may seem like a money-saving option, but hiring experienced professionals means your fence will be properly erected, so there will be less chance of warping or structural failure down the line.
The Long-Term Value of Timber Fencing
High-quality timber makes for a long-standing investment for fences due to durability and appearance value. Here’s why selecting the right materials and finishes can save you money and maintenance effort over time:
1. Durability and Longevity
Hardwood species, including Ironbark, Spotted Gum, and Blackbutt, are very durable and low maintenance. Naturally, these timbers resist pests, decay, and harsh weather. Though they come with quite an expensive initial launch, they pay for themselves over time because of their long life and minimal upkeep.
2. Low Maintenance With the Right Finish
Finishes such as Shou Sugi Ban (charred) timber or clear finishes both add to the aesthetic and are designed to protect the timber from weather, pests, and UV. The finishes in these cases also greatly reduce the frequency of frequent repairs and repainting. For instance, Shou Sugi Ban charred finish improves water and pest resistance, while clear oiled finish retains the natural color of the timber and lengthens its lifespan.
3. Sustainability and Environmental Value
Sustainable forestry practices regulate timber species like Spotted Gum and Tallowwood, ensuring practical and environmentally friendly building choices. Using timber from renewable sources will help reduce the environmental impact, and using eco-friendly finishes such as Greyskin recycled finish will further the sustainability of your project. Timber fencing from managed forests not only saves the environment but also helps to increase the value of the property over the longer term.
Costs Common to Timber Fencing
1. Material Costs
Premium hardwoods – Spotted Gum, Ironbark, and Blackbutt – all come with a heftier price tag too, due to their incredible durability and ability to withstand the elements.
Oregon and Cypress are less expensive options but will likely need additional treatment to make them more durable.
2. Labor and Installation
- Installation Costs: The professional labor cost may vary from location to location and with the project complexity. While DIY installation is less expensive to do, hiring professionals will ensure that the job is done right, and you won’t have to spend money on long-term repairs.
- Custom Designs: The labor costs might increase if you choose custom finishes, since there is additional expertise involved.
3. Maintenance and Upkeep
The type of timber and finish that you choose will determine how often you need to carry out regular maintenance. Clear oiled or Shou Sugi Ban timber finishes are high-quality finishes that significantly reduce maintenance costs over time as the timber is protected from the elements, whereas untreated timber may need to be maintained and sealed regularly to stop deterioration.
| Cost Factor | Description | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Timber Material | Costs vary based on the type of timber chosen. Premium hardwoods like Spotted Gum or Ironbark are more expensive but highly durable. Softwoods like Cypress or Oregon are more affordable. | $75–$120 per linear meter |
| Finish Options | Premium finishes such as Shou Sugi Ban or Clear Oiled add upfront costs but significantly reduce long-term maintenance expenses. | $10–$30 per linear meter |
| Installation Labor | Labor costs depend on the complexity of the design and local labor rates. Hiring skilled installers ensures proper alignment and durability. | $40–$100 per linear meter |
| Fence Height and Design | Taller fences or intricate designs require more materials and labor, increasing overall costs. | Additional 20%–40% of base costs |
| Maintenance Costs | High-quality finishes reduce annual maintenance expenses, whereas untreated timber requires sealing or staining every 1–2 years. | $150–$400 annually (depending on size) |
| Permits and Approvals | Some areas require permits for fence installations. Check local regulations to determine applicable costs. | $100–$300 |
| Gate Installation | Adding gates increases material and labor costs. Premium materials or automated gates further elevate expenses. | $500–$2,000 per gate |
Conclusion
When budgeting for a timber fence installation, make sure to compare the cost of the timber and finish you prefer with its upkeep requirements and durability. Spotted Gum, Ironbark, Tallowwood, and other high-quality hardwood species combined with durable finishes such as Shou Sugi Ban or clear oiled provide excellent durability, require less maintenance, and will retain their aesthetic appeal for a very long time.
To ensure a timber fence remains a valuable, long-lasting addition to their property, homeowners should make informed material choices and invest in professional installation.
