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How to Budget for a Cedar Privacy Fence

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How to Budget for a Cedar Privacy Fence

Build your backyard sanctuary in late winter to save on labor costs and spread the bill out without paying interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $3,000 before anything else
Across the 0% window $166.67/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $3,000 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Imagine walking into your yard and actually having it to yourself. A cedar fence changes your outdoor space from a pass-through area into a private room. Building in late winter is your best move because contractors are usually looking for work before the spring rush hits.

You should expect the project to take about three to five days depending on the size of your yard. Getting multiple quotes is not optional if you want a fair price. Aim for at least three bids from local installers and ask them to break down the cost of materials versus labor.

Remember that the 0% offer is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance on the card once the 18 months pass, the remaining amount will start accruing interest at the standard rate. Set up an automatic payment of $166.67 right away so you don't miss the cutoff.

The steps

  1. 01

    Get three quotes

    Call at least three local fence companies. Don't just take the first price you hear. Ask each pro to show you their recent work so you can see how their cedar boards hold up after a season.

  2. 02

    Use your 0% window

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This gives you 18 months to pay off the $3000 total. If you divide that by the intro window on purchases, you need to set aside $166.67 per month to clear it.

  3. 03

    Book for late winter

    Reach out to your chosen contractor in January or February. They are often willing to drop their prices to keep their crews busy during the cold months. You might face a few weather delays, but the savings are worth the wait.

  4. 04

    Check local permits

    Visit your city planning office website to see if you need a permit. Most towns have rules about how high a fence can be near the street. Doing this now saves you a massive headache later.

  5. 05

    Clear the fence line

    Remove any bushes, old wire, or debris along the property line before the crew arrives. They charge by the hour, so having a clean path lets them start digging immediately.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Why cedar instead of pine?

Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and bugs without needing heavy chemical treatments. It also stays straighter over time, which means fewer warped boards and gaps in your privacy.

Can I install the fence myself to save money?

You can, but fence installation is heavy, back-breaking work that requires precise measurements and post-hole digging. Unless you have experience and the right tools, a professional is usually worth the extra cost.

Does a new fence increase my home value?

It can make your home more attractive to buyers who prioritize privacy. Just don't expect it to add the full cost of the fence to your home's resale price immediately.

How long will a cedar fence last?

With regular cleaning and a fresh coat of stain every few years, a well-built cedar fence should last 15 to 20 years. Keep the bottom of the boards off the dirt to prevent early rotting.