Costs
How much does a fence cost in the San Gabriel Valley?
Installed fencing in the San Gabriel Valley and nearby Southern California typically runs from about $25 to $100+ per linear foot, depending on the material: chain link is the most affordable, wood and vinyl sit in the middle, and wrought iron is at the higher end. The final price depends on length, height, gates, old-fence removal, slope, and access. The only accurate number comes from a free on-site measurement.
How much does a wrought iron fence cost?
Installed wrought iron fencing commonly runs about $50 to $100 per linear foot in Southern California, depending on height, style, gates, footings, and site access. Decorative and taller security styles cost more than simple flat-top runs.
How much does a vinyl fence cost?
Installed vinyl privacy fencing usually runs about $35 to $55 per linear foot in the Southern California area, depending on height, style, and gates. Vinyl costs more up front than wood but needs almost no maintenance over its life.
How much does an automatic driveway gate cost?
An automatic driveway gate is typically quoted as the gate plus the automation. The gate itself depends on width, material, and style, and the automation (operator, keypad, remotes, and safety sensors) adds to that. Because access, power, posts, and opening style all matter, automatic gate pricing is confirmed with a site measurement.
Materials
What is the best fence material for Southern California?
There is no single best material — it depends on your goal. Wrought iron is best for security and curb appeal, vinyl for low-maintenance privacy, wood for a warm custom look, chain link for affordable perimeters, and composite (WPC) for a modern wood look without rot. In the dry SoCal climate, galvanized and powder-coated iron and vinyl both hold up especially well.
Wrought iron vs aluminum fence — which is better?
Wrought iron is stronger and more secure and, when galvanized and powder-coated, lasts for decades; aluminum is lighter, cheaper, and won't rust but dents and bends more easily. For driveways, frontage, and security, iron is usually the better choice; aluminum suits lighter decorative or pool applications.
Wood vs vinyl fence — which lasts longer?
Vinyl generally lasts longer with less work: a vinyl fence commonly lasts 20–30 years with almost no maintenance, while a wood fence lasts roughly 15–20 years and needs periodic staining or sealing. Wood gives a warmer, more custom look; vinyl gives a clean, low-maintenance finish.
What is composite (WPC) fencing?
Composite, or WPC (wood-plastic composite), is a fence material made from wood fibers and plastic. It gives the look of wood without the rot, painting, or staining, making it a popular low-maintenance privacy option for backyards and long property lines.
Permits & rules
Do I need a permit to build a fence in California?
Often, yes for taller fences and any fence with structural or electrical work (such as an automatic gate), and rules vary by city and county. Many cities allow standard-height residential fences without a permit but require one above a certain height or in front-yard setbacks. We confirm the local requirements for your address during the quote.
How tall can a fence be in Los Angeles County?
As a general rule in much of Los Angeles County, rear and side-yard fences can be up to about 6 feet and front-yard fences up to about 3.5 feet, but exact limits, setbacks, and corner-visibility rules vary by city and zoning. Always confirm with your local building department before building.
What are California's pool fence requirements?
Under California's Swimming Pool Safety Act, a pool barrier must be at least 60 inches (5 feet) tall, with gaps that prevent a small child from passing through, and self-closing, self-latching gates that swing away from the pool. Pools also generally require at least two of seven approved safety features. We build pool fencing to meet these guidelines.
Gates
What's the difference between a sliding and a swing gate?
A swing gate hinges open like a door and needs clear space to swing into; a sliding gate rolls sideways along the fence line and is better for tight, sloped, or shared driveways where there's no room to swing. Both can be manual or automated.
Can I add an automatic opener to my existing gate?
Often, yes — if the gate's weight, build, and posts can handle automation and there's power nearby. We confirm this during a free measurement and can add an operator, keypad, remotes, and safety sensors to a suitable existing gate.
Are manual or automatic gates better?
It depends on use. Manual gates are simpler and cheaper and fine for low-traffic or pedestrian access; automatic gates add convenience and security for daily vehicle access, especially on busy or sloped driveways. The same gate frame can often be built manual now and automated later.
Process
How long does fence installation take?
Most residential fence projects are completed in one to a few days, depending on length, material, gates, demolition of an old fence, and ground conditions. A single driveway gate is often installed in a day, while a long perimeter or commercial run takes longer.
Do you remove the old fence before installing a new one?
Yes. When needed, we remove and haul away the existing fence before setting new posts, and that removal and disposal are confirmed during the measurement and included in the written quote.
How do I get an accurate fence quote?
Start with an online estimate for a planning range, then schedule a free on-site measurement. The final price depends on material, linear feet, height, gate openings, demolition, slope, and access, which can only be confirmed at the property.
Hiring
How do I choose a good fence contractor?
Look for a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor (in California, verify the CSLB license number), real reviews, real project photos, a clear written quote, and a warranty. Avoid bids that seem far below the rest, and confirm who handles permits, demolition, and cleanup.
Is Apexguard Fence licensed and insured?
Yes. Apexguard Fence is a licensed, bonded, and insured fence and gate contractor in La Puente, California, operating under CSLB license #1148097, and a DBA of Apexguard Construction. We carry a 1-year workmanship warranty and hold a 5.0 rating from 30 Google reviews.
What areas does Apexguard Fence serve?
Apexguard Fence serves La Puente, El Monte, West Covina, Hacienda Heights, Whittier, City of Industry, Baldwin Park, Covina, Rowland Heights, Chino, Ontario, and the greater San Gabriel Valley and nearby Southern California communities.
Maintenance
How do I maintain a wrought iron fence?
A galvanized, powder-coated iron fence needs very little upkeep: rinse it occasionally, inspect for chips, and touch up any scratches with matching paint to prevent rust. Properly finished iron holds up for decades in the dry Southern California climate.
Still have a question?
If your question isn't here, just ask — we'll give you a straight answer and a free on-site estimate. Call (626) 692-3568 or request a free quote.
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Apexguard Fence is a DBA of Apexguard Construction · Licensed, Bonded & Insured · CSLB #1148097.