If you have been considering a new or replacement wood fence for your yard, you may be a little concerned about estimates coming in much higher than in previous years.
Higher costs of production and increased demand have sent lumber prices through the roof in the last several months. With increases peaking at nearly 250% by April 2021, the subsequent decline in pricing over the last several weeks still has the price of lumber significantly higher than pre-pandemic pricing.
The fact is, lumber prices were increasing some even before Covid-19 shut down our economy. An increase in home construction, some added taxes, and a general increase in costs in the lumber industry had already impacted pricing. The pandemic exacerbated the price rise when the shutdown caused supply shortages as lumber mills were shuttered and homeowners used the time to work on home improvement projects.
Simple supply and demand will continue to impact materials costs, as pressure treated lumber remains in short supply. Fencing companies and the construction industry overall expect supply to begin to slowly catch up with demand, however, and keep pricing on the decline.
Don’t give up on that fencing project!
The higher cost of a new fence may have you thinking you should wait, but when it comes to fencing today, you have options. Keep the following in mind as you plan your fence:
- Wood fencing is still the most popular choice of homeowners for both decorative and privacy fences, adding significant value to your home even at higher pricing.
- Prices for pressure treated lumber are continuing to decline as supply catches up to demand, so waiting just a couple of months could enable you to get a better price.
- Discuss custom design options for your fencing project that limit the amount of lumber you will need.
- If you have contracted already for a wood fence, be patient as your contractor works to secure the needed materials.
- If your need is a security fence around a pool or property, consider an aluminum fence as a sturdy, secure, cost-effective alternative.
- Options today for vinyl fencing of all styles, including privacy fences, provide a great alternative to wood, including styles that simulate natural wood textures and colors with almost no maintenance.
If you are considering a fence for your home or business, contact Thomas Fence Co., or click here for more information about fencing materials and styles we provide across Northeast Ohio and eastern Pennsylvania.