How Have Fencing Prices Been Affected By Recent Surge In Lumber Costs?

The use of outdoor living spaces has increased drastically over the last decade. Many people seek privacy or prefer having a barrier between their yards and their neighbors’ properties.

Because they complement most landscapes, fences made of natural materials like wood are very popular for privacy fencing. However, wood fences can be costly because of fluctuations in lumber prices, which have surged in the past two years due to COVID-19 related delays at lumber mills and supply chain issues.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Contributed to a Lumber Shortage

To understand the current lumber shortage, it’s helpful to know the reasons for it.

The pandemic shutdowns and stay-at-home orders forced lumber mills to close or operate at reduced capacity. Additionally, an increase in home renovations—likely due to homeowners staying home and working remotely—has increased the demand for lumber. As a result, the current supply shortage is driving up costs.

Lumber Prices Have Increased Over 200% Since April 2020

Demand for building materials saw substantial increases as people were spending more time at home. At the same time, lumber production slowed during COVID-19, leading to less supply to meet the increased demand. Finally, tariffs on Canadian timber probably also raised costs since Canada is one of the foremost suppliers of softwood lumber to the United States.

Wood Fencing Has Become More Expensive

As the price of lumber surged, fencing costs have increased. According to PR Newswire:

• The cost of pressure-treated fencing today is more than double its cost in April 2020. Cedar fencing has fared even worse, with a price increase of more than 200% in that same period.
• The cause for these exorbitant prices is the result of COVID-19 and the U.S./Canada trade dispute that began in 2017.

Wood Fencing Prices Are Expected to Be Inflated for the Foreseeable Future

Even if lumber prices were to drop by half next week, that price would still represent a 100% increase compared to the pre-pandemic price. It could take years before we see a return to normal pricing.

Non-Wood Fencing Materials Have Become More Popular

Wood fencing is the most commonly used and well-loved fence material on the market. It’s classic, timeless, and durable. With plenty of options for customization, wood fencing can easily be adapted to fit your taste. It can last for decades with regular maintenance in even the most extreme climates.

However, as the price of wood has risen—especially at big box stores—so has the cost of wood fencing. This has led many homeowners to look for alternatives to wood.

Vinyl fencing has been available for a while, but it can take a while for consumers to warm up to any newer product. However, given vinyl’s low maintenance properties, many consumers are beginning to see its value compared with wood. Vinyl fencing in particular has seen increased popularity in response to the increased cost of wood fencing.

Call Anderson Fence Company For Your Fencing Solution

Anderson Fence Company is your best bet if you live in Salisbury, Berlin, Chincoteague, Accomac and the Greater Delmarva peninsula and need fencing services. Call our office at 800-722-0929, email us at mike@andersonfence.net,  or use our online form to discuss your fencing needs today.