Fences can increase security and privacy, as well as add beauty to a backyard or front yard. You can choose how much privacy you want and what your budget will allow. Though yard fencing can be expensive, we’ve rounded up some cheap privacy fence ideas to fit nearly any budget.
Good garden fencing can be a great addition to any backyard. These fences provide shelter for space, keep pets and children safe, deter neighbors, and look great. You’ll also find that fences are quicker and more affordable to install than walls and can be customized to add a little extra pizzazz.
There are sure more expensive options out there, but you don’t need to spend much money to achieve the same result. Below are some of our top picks for screening a space.
13 Fence Privacy Ideas That Are Cheap
Slatted Style Fence
A slatted fence is surprisingly affordable, especially if it’s made from softwood. This is an excellent option if height is your goal when looking for cheap fence ideas.
The gaps allow a relaxed breeze to flow through and are ideal for hanging accessories. Potted plants are suspended from ropes and hooks on hanging shelves to create a chic boho vibe. We also love the adorable sign.
This style is great for small plots because it doesn’t make them feel too cramped. Consider a few climbing plants in a small pot if you want more privacy in your garden screening options. These will create a natural barrier of leaves and blooms – perfect if you want more greenery in your plot.
Expect to spend: From $10 to $20 per foot
Picket Fences
Picket fences are timeless and a good choice for neat and organized fencing; they are also one of the most affordable options for privacy fence.
They are full of charm and perfect for a cottage garden look. Why not plant a rose? Its beauty and fragrance will instantly enhance the scene as it tumbles across the structure.
Expect to spend: From $18 to $33 per foot
Split Rail
Split rail fences are a relatively inexpensive option that can mark property boundaries and corral animals and can most often be found on farms and ranches.
These are a popular choice for cheap privacy fence ideas because you can either make them yourself or buy them pre-assembled if you have the time and money.
Expect to spend: From $3 to $15 per foot
Chainlink
Some people often consider chainlink fences ugly, even though they can be pretty affordable. Chain link is simple and versatile, and it’s easy to make a big aesthetic impact by pairing chain link with wood accents or getting it in different colors. You can pick this option without any hesitation.
Expect to spend: From $0.30 to $3 per foot
Bamboo Fences
You can plant a bamboo fence yourself in warmer climates by placing it along the line you want and then letting it grow. You can also grow dry bamboo in a suitable spot. After it reaches the right height, you can cut it down and dry it. Then, put it up as fencing. Bamboo can grow up to 36 inches per day. Bamboo fencing can also be purchased in pre-made rolls. This is great if you are concerned about sustainability and eco-friendly options.
Expect to spend: From $0.60 to $10 per foot of fencing a 6 feet tall
Mesh and Split Rail
Split rail fencing is attractive and affordable, but does it provide enough security? You can combine split rail and mesh to make a fence that closes gaps or keeps your dog safe. These fences are great for protecting vegetable gardens from predators, and it is cost-effective and provide great protection for your garden against hungry predators. No wonder people pick this idea amongst all ideas.
Expect to spend: From $0.50 to $1 per line foot
Concrete Fence
Concrete fencings are cost-effective ideas for those who value privacy and security. For maximum coverage, use concrete. Brick or wood accents can be added to break up the design. But this one could be costly, and you might need to hire professionals.
Expect to spend: Concrete 80 lb. – $5-10
Barbed Wire
Barbed wire is often associated with farmland. However, it’s not used for aesthetics but for security. A barbed wire yard fence can be used to protect animals and people from an area, and privacy fence ideas like these are ideal for covering large areas or providing extra security.
Expect to spend: From $0.50 to $2 per foot
Recycle Leftovers
Recycled materials are both free and environmentally friendly, and this is a win for everyone. You can recycle anything from scrap metal to old fences made of solid wood, sorted into different lengths, and painted.
Living Fences
Growing your own “living fence” is an eco-friendly alternative to yard fencing if you are a green thumb. You should consider growing hedge plants like boxwood or privet. Although you can buy your hedge plants at stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot, hiring a local greenhouse or landscaping company may be more cost-effective. We love eco-friendly options. You’ll be proud to tell your friends that you built this fence. They will definitely be pleased with such privacy fence ideas.
Expect to spend: Hedging from $1 to $2 per foot
Lattice Fence
Wattle Fence
Wattle fencing can be a DIY adventure as well as being inexpensive. You can find an easy tutorial online for making wattle fencing. It is made by weaving thin wood branches together through vertically placed stakes. You can try something new, and it will be a great family project. You can source branches from your own trees or ask neighbors or businesses if they would be willing to sell them. You can get your neighbors involved in this fun and challenging project.
Expect to spend: Free or very close to it
Chicken Wire
The most affordable and well-known fencing option is the chicken wire garden fence. This is a dirt-cheap method to keep unwanted animals out. Chicken wire is thin and discreet and can be reassembled with wooden supports. You can also make it look attractive with stains or woods like oak and cedar. This is a versatile and affordable option that we like.
Expect to spend: From $0.10 to $0.30 per line foot
No matter what cheap privacy fence ideas you choose for your garden and yard, many budget-friendly options exist. There are many options available for you to choose from, whether it is privacy, security, or marking the boundaries of your land.
