Fencing April 5, 2024 5 min read

Fence Installation: Popular Options & Maintenance

Wood, vinyl, and metal fencing compared — cost, durability, privacy, and what you'll need to maintain each over time.

Choosing the Right Fence for Your Property

The right fence depends on your priorities: privacy, curb appeal, budget, or minimal maintenance. Here's how the three most common residential fence types compare in the Toronto and GTA market.

Wood Fencing

Best for: Traditional look, customization, privacy

Cost: $30–$55 per linear foot installed
Lifespan: 15–25 years with proper maintenance
Privacy: Excellent with solid board-on-board style
Maintenance: Stain or paint every 2–3 years; inspect for rot annually

Cedar is the top choice in Ontario — naturally rot-resistant and handles freeze-thaw cycles well. Pressure-treated pine costs less but looks less refined.

Vinyl (PVC) Fencing

Best for: Low maintenance, clean modern look

Cost: $45–$75 per linear foot installed
Lifespan: 25–40 years
Privacy: Very good with solid panel styles
Maintenance: Wash once a year; no painting or staining required

Vinyl doesn't rot, rust, or splinter. The downside: it can crack in very cold temperatures and is harder to repair than wood if damaged.

Metal Fencing (Aluminum / Steel)

Best for: Decorative look, boundary marking, pool enclosures

Cost: $50–$100+ per linear foot installed
Lifespan: 30–50 years (aluminum doesn't rust)
Privacy: Low — open picket style
Maintenance: Very low; touch up paint if chipped

Aluminum fencing is required around residential pools under Ontario Building Code. It's decorative rather than providing privacy.

Permit Requirements in Toronto

Fences over 2 metres (6.5 feet) generally require a permit. Fences on corner lots have additional restrictions for sightlines. Always check with your municipality before installation.

Quick Comparison

Most affordable upfront: Wood
Lowest lifetime maintenance: Vinyl or Aluminum
Best privacy: Wood or Vinyl solid panel
Best for pool enclosures: Aluminum (code-required)

Get a Fence Installed This Season

aMaximum Construction installs wood, vinyl, and metal fencing across Toronto and the GTA. Get a free quote today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Fence services in Toronto and the GTA.

How much does fence installation cost in Toronto & GTA?

Fence installation in Toronto & GTA ranges from $30 to $100+ per linear foot depending on material and style. Wood (cedar) runs $35–$55/ft, vinyl $45–$75/ft, and aluminum $50–$100/ft. We provide detailed written quotes including materials, labour, and post installation.

Do I need a permit to install a fence in Toronto & GTA?

In Toronto & GTA and most GTA municipalities, fences over 2 metres (6.5 ft) require a building permit. Corner lot fences have additional sightline restrictions. We handle permit applications and ensure your fence meets all local bylaws.

What fence height is allowed in Toronto & GTA?

Standard residential fences in Toronto & GTA can be up to 2 metres (6.5 ft) in side and rear yards without a permit. Front yard fences are typically limited to 1 metre. Corner lots have additional restrictions. We'll advise on the maximum allowable height for your property.

What type of fence gives the most privacy?

Solid board-on-board cedar or vinyl privacy fences with no gaps provide maximum privacy. A standard 6-foot privacy fence is the most common choice in Toronto & GTA. We can add lattice toppers or increase height (with permit) for additional screening.

Wood vs vinyl fence — which is better for Toronto & GTA?

Cedar is the most popular wood choice in Toronto & GTA — naturally rot-resistant and holds stain well. Vinyl (PVC) requires no painting or staining and lasts longer, but costs 30–50% more upfront. We recommend cedar for budget-conscious clients and vinyl for those wanting minimal maintenance.

How long does fence installation take?

A standard residential fence in Toronto & GTA typically takes 1–3 days to install. Longer runs, custom gates, or complex terrain may take 4–5 days. We provide a complete timeline before starting and minimize disruption to your property.

Who owns a boundary fence between neighbours?

In Ontario, boundary fences are generally considered the shared responsibility of both property owners under the Line Fences Act. We can help you document the project properly if cost-sharing with a neighbour is involved.

Can you install gates and custom fence sections?

Yes. We install single and double swing gates, sliding gates, and arched gate tops. Custom fence sections for uneven terrain, slopes, and corners are all part of our standard installation service in Toronto & GTA.

How long will my fence last?

A well-installed cedar fence in Toronto & GTA lasts 15–20 years with regular maintenance (staining every 2–3 years). Vinyl fences last 25–40 years with minimal upkeep. Aluminum fences can last 50+ years. All our fences come with a workmanship warranty.

What is the best fence for a pool enclosure in Toronto & GTA?

Ontario Building Code requires pool enclosures to be at least 1.2 metres (4 feet) high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Aluminum picket fencing is the most common pool fence choice in Toronto & GTA — it's durable, low-maintenance, and meets code requirements.