How much does aluminium fencing cost? [2024]

Do you have your heart set on an aluminium fence? Aluminium is light, strong, easy to maintain and resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for fences.

But how much does aluminium fencing cost? Let's take a look. This article will help you to understand:

• Why should you choose aluminium fencing?
• Calculating aluminium fencing costs
• What factors affect aluminium fencing costs?
• DIY or hire a fence builder?
• What to look for in a fence builder
• Getting quotes from aluminium fence builders

Why should you choose aluminium fencing?

Aluminium is used for a range of fencing, including railings, front and garden fencing, pool fencing and security fencing. There are even decorative products on the market that are designed to look like timber fencing, without the maintenance.

Aluminium is a popular fencing material for its light weight, strength and durability, but those benefits mean it costs more. For example, aluminium fencing can cost around three times more than timber fencing.

But before you go running into the forest foraging for timber, consider this: aluminium can last a lot longer than timber and needs much less maintenance over its lifetime. Once powder coated in a colour of your choice, all you need to do is hose it down once in a while. So in the long run, the cost of aluminium fencing can be well worth it.

Aluminium fencing is also more cost effective than wrought iron or steel fencing, and unlike these two metals, it will not rust. This is why many homeowners who live near the coast or have a swimming pool, where salt corrosion is a problem, choose aluminium fencing.

Calculating aluminium fencing costs

When you're working out what your new fence costs, you need to consider the cost of the fence and labour to install it.

Like any fence, aluminium fencing is charged on a per metre basis, though you may see fencing costs per square metre for a panel fence. Aluminium fencing cost ranges from:

• $95–$155 per square metre for powder coated aluminium slat fence screens
• $750–$1200 per metre for a rendered brick and aluminium fence
• $850–$1000 per metre for a sandstone and aluminium fence

Fence builders may charge per metre or by the hour. The average fencing rate is $65 to $110 per metre, depending on where you live in Australia.

Depending on the size of your fence, the total cost to supply and install aluminium fencing in Australia can range from:

• $2000 for a small residential fence
• Up to $5500 for a larger fence
• Up to $8000 for premium fencing

If you also need a gate, a powder-coated aluminium gate can cost $2900 for a single gate or $3700 for a double gate.

What factors affect aluminium fencing costs?

A fence builder will usually calculate how much fencing is required and provide you with a set rate. The quote will depend on a number of factors, specifically:

• Type of fence materials used
• Length of your project
• The height of the fence (there are 5 standard heights:  0.9m, 1.2m, 1.5m, 1.8m and 2.1m)
• Soil type
• Access to site
• If foundations are required
• If an old fence needs to be removed

If the soil is very soft or rocky, they may charge more for installation because of the extra work involved. A straight fence usually costs less than a fence installed on a sloping or undulating block.

Fence contractors often offer a discounted rate for larger fences, because they save on travel and setup time.

Also note that fence heights above 2.4m may require scaffolding that will incur an additional charge.

DIY or hire a fence builder?

Unless you have experience building fences or working with metals, it's best to leave aluminium fence installation to the experts.

While it costs less to install a fence yourself, you're guaranteed a better result with a fence builder. They will also make sure the fencing is the right height for your property and that it complies with council regulations, saving you hassle of paperwork.

Read more: Getting approvals checklist

What to look for in a fence builder

You shouldn't always hire the first fence builder who gives you a quote. To get a sense of whether a local business is right for you, ask them these questions:

• Are you licensed?
• Do you hold public liability insurance?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up?
• What warranty do your products carry?

Getting quotes from aluminium fence builders

Getting at least 3 quotes for aluminium fencing will give you a fair idea of market rates in your area. When you get quotes from aluminium fence builders, make sure you ask about what is and isn't included.

For example, if you need an old fence removed, they may be able to do this for an additional cost. Also ask about council red tape and whether they can assist with getting approvals, if required.

Above all, don't just choose the cheapest quote. Weigh up each offering and pick a fence builder who is reputable, does a good job and can meet your budget.

*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.