Wood fence installation in Chicago typically ranges from $22 to $50 per linear foot, depending on material type, fence height, and style complexity. Pressure-treated pine privacy fences average $22–$35 per foot, while premium cedar fences range $32–$50 per foot. A standard 150-foot backyard privacy fence costs $3,300–$7,500 installed. Additional factors include site conditions, slope, accessibility, post depth requirements, and whether you choose traditional or custom styles. We provide detailed, itemized estimates to ensure transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

The two best wood options for Chicago are Western Red Cedar and pressure-treated pine. Cedar offers superior natural rot resistance, insect protection, and long-term dimensional stability, making it ideal for Chicago’s harsh weather and freeze-thaw cycles. Pine is more affordable and performs well when properly sealed and maintained. For longevity and aesthetics, cedar is the top choice; for cost-effectiveness with solid durability, pine is a great option. We help homeowners compare both materials during the consultation process.

A professionally installed cedar fence lasts 20–30 years, while a pressure-treated pine fence typically lasts 15–20 years in Chicago’s climate. Longevity depends on material selection, installation quality, post depth, and ongoing maintenance like sealing or staining. Chicago’s humidity, snowfall, and freeze-thaw cycles can accelerate wear if a fence is poorly installed. With premium lumber, galvanized hardware, and posts set 42 inches deep, our fences are engineered for long-term durability and dependable performance.

Most Chicago residential wood fence installations require a permit, especially when building a new fence or changing height, location, or style. Standard residential fences up to 6 feet generally require simple permitting, while 8-foot privacy fences may require additional documentation or neighbor consent depending on zoning. Chicago Commercial Fencing handles the entire permit process for you, ensuring compliance with city regulations, property line rules, and local neighborhood guidelines.

Chicago requires fence posts to be set a minimum of 42 inches deep, which is below the local frost line. This depth prevents frost heave, shifting, and long-term instability caused by freeze-thaw cycles. We always set posts at or below this depth in concrete footings for maximum structural strength. Proper post depth is one of the most important factors affecting the lifespan of any wood fence in Chicago’s climate.

Cedar is better for homeowners seeking natural rot resistance, long-term durability, and premium appearance. It requires no chemical treatment and resists warping, making it ideal for Chicago winters. Pressure-treated pine is the more cost-effective option and performs well when sealed regularly. Cedar lasts 20–30 years, while pine lasts 15–20 years. Your choice depends on budget, maintenance expectations, and aesthetic preference. We offer expert guidance to help you make the best decision.

Wood fence maintenance includes annual inspections, light cleaning, and sealing or staining every 2–3 years. Chicago’s weather exposes fences to moisture, snow, and UV rays, so it’s important to clear debris from the base, tighten loose hardware, and check for early signs of rot or warping. Periodic upkeep prevents premature aging and maintains structural integrity. Our team offers professional staining and maintenance services to extend the lifespan of your fence.

Staining or sealing your fence protects it from moisture, UV damage, rot, and cracking. Staining enhances color and wood grain while offering protection, while sealing provides clear moisture resistance without altering appearance. Both options preserve your fence and extend its lifespan. Chicago’s climate makes finishing essential, as untreated wood weathers faster due to humidity and temperature changes. We recommend staining or sealing after installation and repeating every 2–3 years.

Most Chicago wood fence installations take 3–5 days, depending on fence length, material, site conditions, and style complexity. Projects with slopes, custom gates, or horizontal designs may require additional time. Weather can also affect scheduling, but our team works efficiently while maintaining premium craftsmanship. Before installation begins, we complete surveying, permitting, material selection, and property line verification to ensure the process runs smoothly.

Yes. We can match most existing wood fences by identifying the lumber type, board dimensions, spacing patterns, stain colors, and construction style. Whether it’s cedar, pine, picket, privacy, or shadow box, our team ensures new sections blend seamlessly with older fencing. Matching requires precise board selection and hardware compatibility, which we handle with expert attention to detail. This helps maintain aesthetic consistency across your property.

Yes. All our wood fence installations include a 5-year craftsmanship warranty covering post stability, structural integrity, and installation-related issues. Material warranties may also apply depending on cedar or pine suppliers. Our goal is to provide peace of mind with every installation, ensuring your fence performs reliably for years. If any workmanship-related issues arise, we resolve them promptly at no cost.

The best privacy fence styles in Chicago include solid-panel, board-on-board, and shadow box designs. Solid-panel fences provide complete visual screening, while board-on-board offers superior coverage with ventilation. Shadow box fences give semi-privacy with an attractive appearance on both sides. Standard heights are 6 feet, with 8-foot options available for enhanced privacy. Material choices include cedar and pressure-treated pine, both durable options for Chicago’s climate.

Cedar fences typically cost $32–$50 per linear foot, while pressure-treated pine ranges from $22–$35 per linear foot. Cedar’s higher price reflects its natural rot resistance, longer lifespan, and superior aesthetic qualities. Pine offers strong value for budget-conscious homeowners but requires more frequent sealing. Over time, cedar often provides better long-term value due to reduced maintenance and extended durability.

Yes. We install wood fences throughout the winter, provided the ground is workable and temperatures allow proper concrete curing. Winter installations can actually be advantageous due to shorter wait times and faster scheduling. Our team follows winter-specific procedures to ensure proper post setting, stability, and alignment. If conditions become unsuitable, we adjust scheduling to protect your investment.

Absolutely. We install commercial wood fences for businesses, industrial sites, retail properties, schools, HOAs, and more. Our commercial services include dumpster enclosures, perimeter fences, inventory protection, privacy screens, and code-compliant structural solutions. We offer volume pricing, durable construction, and minimal disruption to business operations. All installations meet Chicago’s codes and zoning requirements.