Ornamental fencing prices
Ornamental fencing costs 2026
Installing ornamental fencing costs between €35 and €160 per metre on average, depending on the material, finish, and design. Ornamental fencing is decorative fencing made of wrought iron, galvanised steel, or aluminium that stylishly encloses your garden or driveway. The price of fencing per metre varies due to factors such as height, type of mounting, and any customisation requirements. In this price guide, you can read about the costs of ornamental fencing and what to look out for.
Table of Contents
- How much does ornamental fencing cost?
- Ornamental fencing costs by finish and gate type
- Price-determining factors for ornamental fencing
- Additional costs and surcharges
- How does the professional work when installing ornamental fencing?
- How can you save on ornamental fencing?
- Common problems with ornamental fencing
- Find the best professional for ornamental fencing
- Frequently asked questions about ornamental fencing
- Book a professional for ornamental fencing
- Useful links
How much does ornamental fencing cost?
Ornamental fencing costs an average of €2,000 for a complete project, including material and installation. The price per metre varies between €35 and €160, depending on the material and finish. For a complete fence of approximately twenty metres, you will pay between €700 and €3,200 for materials alone.
The total costs consist of approximately 70% material and 30% labour. The price per metre mainly depends on the type of finish: standard galvanised ornamental fencing is the cheapest, while galvanised ornamental fencing with a coating in a different colour is more expensive.
Ornamental fencing prices per metre
| Product | Price per metre |
|---|---|
| Galvanised ornamental fencing | €35 - €90 |
| Galvanised ornamental fencing with standard coating | €40 - €120 |
| Galvanised ornamental fencing with coating in another colour | €60 - €160 |
These prices give a good idea of what to expect for different finishes. Galvanised ornamental fencing without coating is the most affordable, while coloured coatings increase the price due to the extra processing steps.
Ornamental fencing gates prices
| Product | Price per piece |
|---|---|
| Pedestrian gate | €150 - €400 |
| Swing gate for cars | €600 - €1,150 |
| Electric swing gate for cars | €600 - €6,300 |
| Sliding gate for cars | €1,950 - €2.600 |
| Electric sliding gate for cars | €4,000 - €5,500 |
There are large price differences between manual and electric versions of gates. A simple pedestrian gate is available from €150, while electric sliding gates for cars can go up to €5,500. The costs depend on size, material, and technology.
Please note: All prices include 21% VAT. The labour costs for installing the ornamental fencing are additional. The professional usually calculates this per metre or based on the total job.
Ornamental fencing costs by finish and gate type
The price of ornamental fencing mainly depends on the finish and the type of gate you choose. Galvanised fencing without coating is cheapest with a silver-grey colour, while a coating extends the lifespan and offers more colour options. For gates, the choice between manual or electric makes a big difference.
| Type | Finish | Price per metre |
|---|---|---|
| Ornamental fencing | Galvanised (silver-grey colour) | €35 - €90 |
| Ornamental fencing | Galvanised with standard coating (black/green) | €40 - €120 |
| Ornamental fencing | Galvanised with coating in another colour | €60 - €160 |
| Gate type | Operation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pedestrian gate | Manual | €150 - €400 |
| Swing gate for cars | Manual | €600 - €1,150 |
| Swing gate for cars | Electric | €600 - €6,300 |
| Sliding gate for cars | Manual | €1,950 - €2,600 |
| Sliding gate for cars | Electric | €4,000 - €5,500 |
Price-determining factors for ornamental fencing
The total costs for ornamental fencing are influenced by several factors. Below you can read what determines the price and what to look out for when planning your job.
Length of the fencing
More metres mean higher total costs. For larger projects from twenty metres onwards, the price per metre may be slightly lower due to economies of scale. The professional orders material more efficiently and the labour time per metre decreases relatively.
Height of the fence
Low fences of 50-100 centimetres are the cheapest because they require less material. Medium-high fences of 100-150 centimetres cost more due to extra latticework. High fences of 150-200 centimetres require heavier profiles and sturdier posts for stability, which further increases the price.
Finish and coating
Galvanised ornamental fencing without coating is the most affordable. A standard coating in black or green increases the price per metre by approximately €5 to €30. If you choose a coating in another colour, you pay €20 to €70 extra per metre due to the special processing steps.
Complexity of the design
Standard straight fences with simple bars are quick to install. Fences with curls, ornaments, or curved shapes require more labour time and precision. Custom work with custom patterns is the most expensive because each panel is made to measure.
Style choice
Modern clean lines without decorations are cheaper than classic designs. Victorian or wrought iron styles with ornate details increase the price due to labour-intensive production.
Terrain conditions
Installation is simple on flat ground. On sloping terrain, the fencing must be placed in steps, which requires extra measurement work and adjustments. Uneven ground with hollows or bumps requires groundworks before the posts can be placed.
Accessibility
Easy access at the street side keeps costs low. Narrow passages of less than ninety centimetres or positions at the back of the garden increase labour time. The professional must carry material manually and works more slowly.
Non-standard sizes
Standard panel sizes of 200 or 250 centimetres are immediately available and cheap. Non-standard sizes such as 175 or 320 centimetres require customisation, which increases the price by €10 to €40 per metre.
Prefab versus custom-made
Ready-made standard ornamental fences are immediately available and quick to install. Custom solutions offer an exact fit but cost more due to individual production.
Region
In large cities such as Amsterdam or Utrecht, prices are often €5 to €15 higher per metre than in rural areas. This is due to higher labour costs and parking costs for the professional.
Urgent versus planned
Planned work is cheaper because the professional can plan efficiently. Urgent jobs within 48 hours cost €50 to €100 extra because the professional has to adjust their schedule.
Weekend
Work on Saturday or Sunday is more expensive than during the week. Expect a €50 to €150 surcharge for weekend work, depending on the scale of the job.
Maintenance and repairs
Small repairs such as replacing a loose bar or post cost between €50 and €150. Do not delay this, as larger damage from rust or subsidence costs more to repair later.
Additional costs and surcharges
Extra costs depend on your specific situation. At Zoofy, you do not pay call-out charges.
- Urgent jobs within 48 hours are more expensive because the affiliated professional must adjust their schedule
- Work at the weekend costs more than during the week
- A coating in a non-standard colour increases the price per metre because the powder paint must be specially ordered
- Non-standard sizes lead to extra costs because the fencing is made to measure
- Extra accessories for electric gates such as photocells, warning lights, and emergency batteries increase the total price
How does the professional work when installing ornamental fencing?
Installing ornamental fencing follows a fixed procedure with clear steps.
- Setting out the line: The professional marks where the fencing will go and determines the correct post distance, usually between 200 and 250 centimetres. Accurate measurement is essential for a straight result.
- Digging the holes: Holes are dug for the posts, usually 40 to 60 centimetres deep. The soil type determines the depth: sandy soil requires deeper foundations than clay soil for stability.
- Placing and founding the posts: The posts are placed and founded with concrete. The installer levels everything to guarantee a perfect straight placement, which forms the basis for further work.
- Attaching the fencing: The ornamental fencing is attached to the posts with bolts or welding. For custom work, the professional can weld on-site for a seamless finish.
- Installing gates: Any gates are mounted and adjusted so they open and close smoothly. For electric gates, the professional installs and tests the motor and accessories such as photocells.
Clear the workspace beforehand and ensure good accessibility to keep costs low.
How can you save on ornamental fencing?
There are several ways to save costs when installing ornamental fencing.
- Repair on time: Have small rust spots or damage to existing fencing touched up immediately. This prevents the damage from spreading and requiring larger repairs later.
- Clear the workspace: Ensure good accessibility and tidy up the area before the professional arrives. This saves labour time because the installer can start placement immediately.
- Plan ahead: Do not book at the weekend or as an urgent job. Weekday planned work is cheaper because no surcharges apply for urgent jobs or weekend work.
- Choose standard: Opt for standard sizes and a standard colour coating such as black or green. This keeps the price low as no customisation is needed and materials are immediately available.
- Prefab panels: Prefabricated panels are cheaper and quicker to install than custom work because they do not have to be individually produced.
- Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, without call-out charges and without surprises. You only pay after completion of the job.
Common problems with ornamental fencing
Problems with ornamental fencing usually have clear causes that you can recognise early.
Rust formation
Rust occurs when the coating is damaged and the underlying steel comes into contact with moisture. You recognise this by brown spots on the fencing. Ignoring it leads to structural weakening, making the fencing unsafe.
Sagging gates
A sagging gate is caused by insufficient foundation or hinges that are too weak. You notice this because the gate drags across the ground when opening or closing. Continued use permanently damages both the gate and the ground.
Jamming gates
Jamming gates are caused by soil subsidence or deformation of the construction. The gate no longer opens or closes properly, causing daily inconvenience.
Electrical faults
Problems with electrical systems are caused by moisture entering the motor or cabling. You recognise this by faltering operation or complete failure of the gate. Correct installation and timely maintenance prevent most problems.
Find the best professional for ornamental fencing
Ornamental fencing lasts for decades, so choose a professional who delivers quality.
- No call-out charges: You incur no costs before the work begins.
- Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what you pay without surprises afterwards.
- Quick booking without quote hassle: Choose a moment and schedule directly.
- Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay when the work is finished.
- Reliable, vetted professionals: At Zoofy, you will find affiliated professionals with excellent reviews who provide honest advice on which fencing suits your situation.
Frequently asked questions about ornamental fencing
What does ornamental fencing cost per metre?
Ornamental fencing costs between €35 and €160 per metre, depending on the material and finish. Galvanised fencing without coating is the cheapest, while galvanised fencing with a coating in a different colour is more expensive. The total price consists of approximately 70% material and 30% labour.
How long does ornamental fencing last?
With good maintenance, ornamental fencing lasts for decades. Powder-coated fencing has the longest lifespan because the coating provides the best protection against weather influences. Galvanised fencing without coating must be periodically re-treated to prevent rust formation.
Can I install ornamental fencing myself?
Installing ornamental fencing requires expertise for correct foundation and levelling. For a durable result and a stable end result, we recommend a professional.
Is aluminium or steel better for my situation?
Aluminium is maintenance-free and does not rust, but is less strong than steel. Steel is stronger and suitable for high loads, but requires protection against rust by galvanising or coating. Your choice depends on your priority between maintenance and strength.
Can ornamental fencing rust and how do I prevent this?
Yes, if the coating is damaged, rust can occur because moisture comes into contact with the underlying steel. Prevent this by immediately touching up damage and inspecting the fencing regularly for damage.
How do I clean my ornamental fencing?
Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid aggressive cleaning agents that can damage the coating and accelerate rust formation.
Do I need a permit for ornamental fencing?
This depends on the height and municipal rules. For listed buildings or protected areas, an environmental permit is often required. Always check with your municipality first.
What is the maximum bar spacing for child safety?
The space between bars should be a maximum of 10 to 12 centimetres to prevent children from getting stuck.
What is the difference between a swing gate and a sliding gate?
A swing gate opens like a door and requires space in front of or behind the fence. A sliding gate slides sideways and requires space next to the fence, ideal for narrow driveways.
Do I need to periodically treat my ornamental fencing?
Galvanised fencing must be periodically repainted to prevent rust. Powder-coated fencing needs little to no maintenance and retains its appearance for years.
Book a professional for ornamental fencing
Ready to have ornamental fencing installed? At Zoofy, you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs beforehand, and Zoofy pairs you with a reliable professional who has been vetted. You only pay once the work is finished. Book a professional directly.