Fence cost calculator
How Much Does Fence Painting Cost? (2026)
Paint gives a wood fence a solid color and hides old stains and repairs, but it takes two coats and peels as it ages, so every repaint starts with scraping. Pros charge by the square foot; a painted fence needs a new coat every 3-5 years.
Cost breakdown
- Per linear foot, 6 ft fence, one side
- $6 - $14
- Per square foot, two coats
- $1.00 - $2.40
- 150 ft fence, one side
- $900 - $2,160
- 150 ft fence, both sides
- $1,620 - $3,890
- DIY paint for 150 ft, one side
- $280 - $640
- Frequency
- Every 3-5 years
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FAQ
How much does it cost to paint a fence?
A pro charges $1.00-$2.40 per square foot for two coats, which is $6-$14 per linear foot for one side of a 6 ft fence. A 150 ft fence costs $900-$2,160 for one side and $1,620-$3,890 for both. Doing it yourself costs $280-$640 in paint.
How much paint do I need for a fence?
A gallon of exterior paint covers about 225 sq ft of rough wood and 325 sq ft of smooth boards per coat, and fences need two coats. One side of a 150 ft, 6 ft fence (900 sq ft) takes about 8 gallons on rough wood or 6 on smooth.
How often should you paint a fence?
Every 3-5 years depending on sun, rain and paint quality. Signs it's time: peeling, cracking, fading, or bare wood showing through.
What type of paint is best for fences?
100% acrylic latex exterior paint. It stays flexible, lets moisture out and resists cracking. Prime bare or stained wood first, then apply two coats.
Should I paint or replace my old fence?
If the posts are solid and the boards intact, paint: $900-$2,160 for one side of 150 ft against $2,550-$6,750 for a new pine fence. If posts are rotting or the fence leans, painting only hides the problem for a year or two.
Need a new fence instead?
Estimate a brand new fence - every material, height and length, with materials and labor split out.
Open the fence cost calculator