How to estimate a aluminum fence (cost per linear foot)
Ornamental aluminum is a panelized system like vinyl, but with shorter panels (usually 6 ft) and rackable rails that follow grade — which makes it the go-to for sloped yards and pool codes. Estimate by section and watch the pool-code spec.
Installed range
$30–$55/ft
Typical height
4 ft
Post spacing
6 ft o.c.
The per-linear-foot formula
Panels are typically 6 ft wide. Sections = ceil(LF ÷ 6). Posts = sections + 1, plus corner and gate posts.
Aluminum rails rack to follow slope, so you rarely step panels — but you do order the correct bracket type (line, corner, end, stair) per connection.
Pool code (BOCA / ASTM F2286) dictates picket spacing and bottom-rail height; confirm the spec before quoting because it changes the panel SKU.
- Sections = ceil(LF ÷ 6)
- Posts = sections + 1 + corners + gates
- Brackets per connection: line / corner / end / stair
- Verify pool-code spec (changes the panel)
Material checklist
Grade (residential / commercial / industrial) sets wall thickness and price.
- Aluminum panels (rackable), by grade and style
- Posts (line, corner, end, gate) + post caps
- Brackets and self-tapping screws
- Gate kits, hinges, latches (magna-latch for pools)
- Concrete
Labor considerations
Aluminum is light and fast on slopes because rails rack, so a crew moves quickly once posts are laid out. The care is in bracket selection and keeping posts plumb and aligned.
Pool jobs add inspection coordination and self-closing/self-latching gate hardware that must be quoted.
- Rackable install on grade changes
- Pool-code gate hardware and inspection
- Core-drilling for posts on concrete/pool decks
What moves the price
Grade/wall thickness, height, picket style, and whether it’s a pool-code job are the drivers. Core-drilled posts on a pool deck cost more than dig-and-set.
aluminum fence FAQ
- How much does an aluminum fence cost per linear foot?
- Ornamental aluminum fence typically runs $30–$55 per linear foot installed, with pool-code and commercial-grade specs at the higher end.
- Can aluminum fence follow a slope?
- Yes. Rackable aluminum panels pivot at the brackets to follow grade without stepping, which is why it’s common on hilly yards and around pools.