Top Fence Installation in West Orange, New Jersey Ranked

Adding a fence to your West Orange property is a significant investment that enhances privacy, security, and curb appeal. Whether you're looking to define your property line, create a safe play area, or simply boost your home's aesthetic, understanding local regulations, material options, and costs is crucial. This guide provides essential information to help you navigate the process of planning and installing a new fence, connecting you with the knowledge needed to find qualified local professionals for your project.

Hidden Fence Company

304 NJ-10, Randolph, NJ 07869

Hidden Fence Company is a fence installation contractor based in New York, NY. They specialize in installing Pet Stop systems known for their safe and humane features. The company focuses on providing high-quality fencing solutions with competitive pricing.

5.0

291 Reviews

Jan Fence

4 Industrial Rd, Pequannock Township, NJ 07440

Jan Fence is a fencing contractor serving New York, NY, with nearly 70 years of experience in fence installation. They provide a range of fencing solutions including aluminum, chain link, vinyl, wood, and custom options. Their services cover privacy, security, and pool safety fences, all professionally installed by in-house crews using premium, warranty-backed materials. Jan Fence also offers expert guidance through permits and HOA regulations to ensure a smooth process from consultation to completion.

4.9

422 Reviews

Virtue Fence Company

4 Woodport Rd, Wharton, NJ 07885

Virtue Fence Company is a residential fencing contractor based near New York, NY, specializing in custom fence installations for homeowners. They offer a variety of fencing options including wood, vinyl, aluminum, and chain link, using high-quality materials suited for the regional climate. Their experienced craftsmen focus on creating fences that enhance privacy, pet safety, and curb appeal. Virtue Fence Company serves the New York area with custom solutions and provides a three-year workmanship warranty on all installations.

4.9

353 Reviews

INTEGRITY FENCE AND DECK L.L.C.

4322 Richardson Ave #1, Bronx, NY 10466

INTEGRITY FENCE AND DECK L.L.C. is a fencing and landscaping contractor serving New York, NY, as well as the broader tri-state area including New Jersey and Pennsylvania. With 30 years of family experience originating in Europe, the company offers services for both commercial and residential properties. Their team specializes in fence installation, decking, and railing, using high-quality materials such as 100% PVC and aluminum that meet industry standards. They also handle custom orders and provide a variety of colors and materials to suit different needs.

5.0

94 Reviews

Northeast Fencing, LLC

23 Candlewood Ct, Colonia, NJ 07067

Northeast Fencing, LLC is a fence installation contractor based near New York, NY. The company provides fence installation services across New Jersey and surrounding states. With over 15 years of experience, they specialize in delivering quality fencing solutions.

4.9

326 Reviews

See more providers in West Orange, NJ

Understanding West Orange Fence Regulations

Before you pick up a post-hole digger, it's vital to understand the local rules that govern fence construction in West Orange. Adhering to these ordinances from the start will save you time, money, and potential disputes with neighbors or the township.

Height and Location Restrictions: In West Orange, fence height limits are primarily determined by where on your property the fence will be located. For front yards, the maximum allowable height is typically 4 feet, and these fences must be at least 50% open (e.g., picket or split-rail styles) rather than solid privacy designs ^{1 2}. For rear and side yards, you can generally install a fence up to 6 feet tall, and solid privacy fences are permitted up to the rear line of your house ^{1 3 4}.

Permits and Property Lines: A permit is required for all new fence installations in West Orange ^{1 5}. You must apply through the Township's Zoning Officer, pay the associated fee, and may need a building permit if the fence exceeds 6 feet in height ^{3 6}. It is your responsibility to ensure the fence is built entirely within your property lines. Having a recent survey is highly recommended. The township also requires that the "finished" or "good" side of the fence face outward, toward your neighbor and the street ^{2 5}. Prohibited materials include barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences ⁶.

Choosing the Right Fence Material

Selecting the best material for your fence involves balancing budget, desired aesthetics, maintenance commitment, and functional needs like privacy or decoration. Here's a breakdown of the most popular options for West Orange homes.

Wood Fencing: A classic and budget-friendly choice, wood fencing offers a timeless look. Materials like cedar or pressure-treated pine are common, with costs typically ranging from $7 to $15 per linear foot for materials ^{1 7}. Wood is versatile, perfect for both solid privacy panels and charming picket styles. However, it requires regular maintenance, including staining or sealing every few years, to protect against New Jersey's weather and prevent rot ^{1 8}.

Vinyl (PVC) Fencing: Known for its durability and low maintenance, vinyl fencing is a popular alternative to wood. It won't rot, warp, or need painting, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water ⁹. Available in privacy, picket, and semi-private styles, vinyl has a higher upfront cost, often between $20 and $40 per linear foot installed ^{1 7}. Its longevity and lack of upkeep make it a cost-effective choice over the long term.

Aluminum and Wrought Iron: If your primary goal is decorative appeal and security rather than privacy, metal fencing is an excellent option. Aluminum and wrought iron offer elegant, ornate designs that significantly boost curb appeal. These materials are strong, durable, and require minimal maintenance beyond occasional touch-ups to prevent rust. Costs can range from $15 to $50 per linear foot, depending on the complexity of the design ^{1 8}.

Composite Fencing: As a higher-end option, composite fencing blends wood fibers and plastic to create a product that mimics the look of wood without the intensive maintenance. It is highly durable, resistant to insects and moisture, and won't splinter or fade quickly. This material typically falls in the $20 to $45 per linear foot range ^{1 8}.

Fence Styles: Privacy vs. Decorative

Your choice of fence style will directly impact the function and feel of your outdoor space. The two main categories to consider are privacy fences and decorative fences.

Privacy Fence Styles: The primary goal here is to create a visual and sound barrier. This is achieved with solid-panel designs that have little to no gap between pickets or boards. Popular privacy styles include solid board-on-board, shadowbox, and full-panel vinyl fences. These are ideal for enclosing backyard pools, patios, or play areas, shielding you from street noise and neighboring views ^{10 4}. In West Orange, these are best suited for rear yards where the 6-foot height limit applies.

Decorative Fence Styles: These fences are designed to enhance your home's architecture and define property boundaries without completely closing off the view. Classic styles include:

• Picket Fences: The iconic American front-yard fence, perfect for a cottage or colonial-style home.
• Split-Rail or Post-and-Rail: A rustic, open style often used for larger properties or to contain pets.
• Lattice Top: Adds a decorative touch to the top of a solid fence for a more ornate look. These open designs meet the 50% openness requirement for front yards in West Orange and are often constructed from wood, vinyl, or aluminum ^{1 2}.

Understanding Fence Installation Costs in West Orange

The total cost of your fence project will vary widely based on material, linear footage, terrain, and labor. Having a realistic budget in mind will help you communicate effectively with contractors.

Cost Ranges: For a typical residential project in the area, you can expect an overall total cost between $1,500 and $10,000 ^{11 12}. A more useful metric is the cost per linear foot, which generally ranges from $25 to $60 installed ^{11 7}. Here's a closer look:

• Privacy Fences (Wood/Vinyl): $25 - $50 per linear foot ¹¹.
• Chain Link: The most economical option, ranging from $10 - $20 per linear foot ¹⁰.
• Aluminum/Ornamental Iron: $15 - $50 per linear foot ^{1 8}.

Factors Influencing Price: Several variables can cause your quote to fall on the higher end of these ranges:

• Labor: Professional installation labor can add $10 to $35 per foot to material costs ¹⁰.
• Gates: Including a walk-through or driveway gate adds several hundred dollars.
• Terrain: Sloped or rocky yards require more labor-intensive site preparation and stepped or racked fence panels.
• Removal & Disposal: The cost to remove an old fence will be an additional line item.
• Permits: Don't forget to factor in the township permit fee ^{3 5}.

The Professional Installation Process

Working with a seasoned installer ensures your fence is built correctly, safely, and in compliance with all local codes. Here's what a typical professional installation entails.

1. Consultation and Estimate: A reputable contractor will visit your property to discuss your needs, take measurements, assess the terrain, and identify any potential obstacles like utility lines.
2. Planning and Permitting: They will help you finalize material and style choices, provide a detailed written estimate, and often assist with or oversee the permit application process with the West Orange zoning office.
3. Site Preparation and Layout: Once permits are secured, the crew will mark the exact fence line using your property survey, call 811 to have underground utilities marked, and clear the path for the fence.
4. Installation: This involves setting posts in concrete footings for stability, attaching rails and panels or pickets, and installing gates with proper hardware. A quality installer will ensure the fence is level, plumb, and visually consistent, even on sloped ground.
5. Final Inspection and Cleanup: After construction, the site should be cleaned of all debris. The contractor will walk you through the finished project and may provide care instructions for your new fence.

Maintaining Your Investment

Protecting your investment through proper care will extend the life and beauty of your fence for years to come.

• Wood Fences: Plan to clean, stain, or seal every 2-3 years. Regularly check for loose boards, rot, or insect damage.
• Vinyl Fences: Simply wash with a garden hose and mild detergent annually to prevent mildew and keep it looking new.
• Metal Fences: Inspect for rust or chipped paint annually. Touch up any damaged areas with rust-inhibitive paint to prevent corrosion.
• All Fences: Keep vegetation trimmed back from the fence line to promote air circulation and prevent moisture and pest issues. After heavy storms, check for damage.

Frequently asked questions

Sources