
Fence replacement in Memphis often means clearing decades-old wood or chain link before new posts go into the ground. Whether your fence has rotted out, leaned beyond repair, or simply reached the end of its life, we handle the full cycle: removal, hauling, and installation of a new fence built to last. Memphis homeowners in neighborhoods from downtown to Germantown, Bartlett, and Collierville rely on us to strip away the old and set new posts deep enough to handle the shifting ground and weather patterns of the Greater Memphis area. This page covers why replacement makes sense, how we do it, what it costs, and how to choose the right contractor for the job.
Why Fence Replacement Matters in Memphis: Signs Your Fence Needs to Go
A fence that leans, sags, or shows rot at the base is not always worth repairing. Sometimes the posts have settled unevenly, the rails have split beyond reinforcement, or the whole structure has begun to fail in sections. In Memphis, where ground conditions shift and weather cycles demand durability, knowing when to replace rather than patch is the difference between a sound property line and a recurring headache.
- Inspect the base of each post for soft wood, discoloration, or holes indicating decay at the ground line.
- Check whether more than one post is leaning or whether the fence sags in multiple sections rather than one isolated spot.
- Test the rails and pickets by hand to see if they move independently or if the whole frame has lost rigidity.
- Consider the age of the fence and whether repairs would cost more than 50 percent of a full replacement over the next three years.
- Verify your property line and any local setback or height rules with your city or county before ordering new materials.
When replacement is the right call, we remove the old fence completely, haul it away, and start fresh with properly set posts and new materials matched to your budget and style.
Key info: In Memphis and surrounding areas, fence height, setback, and material rules are set by the city or county. Many neighborhoods in Collierville, Germantown, and Arlington also have HOA or deed restrictions that govern fence design. Always verify local rules before starting removal or installation. Contact your city building department or HOA to confirm what is permitted on your property.
For guidance on whether repair might still be the better choice, see our fence repair service page.
How Fence Replacement Works in Memphis: Our Process from Start to Finish
Replacement is a methodical job. We begin by marking the old fence line, calling for a utility locate (required by Tennessee law before digging), removing the old fence and posts, and hauling all debris. Then we set new posts in concrete at the correct depth and spacing, install new rails and pickets or panels, and finish with trim and hardware. The whole process is designed to give you a fence that will stand straight and solid for years.
- Schedule a free site visit so we can assess the old fence, confirm your property line, and discuss material and style options.
- We call Tennessee 811 for a utility locate to mark underground lines before any post holes are dug.
- Remove the old fence, including all posts, rails, and pickets, and haul everything away.
- Dig post holes to proper depth and spacing, set new posts in concrete, and allow concrete to cure.
- Install new rails, pickets, or panels, attach all hardware, and apply finish or stain if requested.
- Walk the line with you to confirm the fence meets your expectations and local regulations.
From start to finish, a typical residential replacement takes two to five working days depending on fence length and material choice.
Example: A 150-linear-foot wood privacy fence replacement in a Memphis residential lot typically involves removing an old pressure-treated fence, setting 12 to 15 new posts in concrete, installing 1x6 or 1x8 boards in a board-on-board or side-by-side pattern, and finishing with cap and trim. Material choice, site access, and whether the ground is level or sloped all affect the timeline and cost.
If you are replacing an older fence and want to explore a different material, such as vinyl or chain link, visit our pages on vinyl fence installation and chain link fence installation.
Fence Replacement Methods: Material and Installation Approach
| Approach | Description | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Privacy Fence Replacement | Remove old fence, set new posts in concrete, install pressure-treated or cedar boards in board-on-board or side-by-side pattern, add cap and trim. | Homeowners who want privacy, a classic look, and the option to stain or paint for curb appeal. |
| Vinyl Fence Replacement | Remove old fence, set new posts in concrete, install vinyl panels or pickets, minimal finish work required. | Properties where low maintenance and no painting or staining are priorities, or where HOA rules favor vinyl. |
| Chain Link Fence Replacement | Remove old fence, set new posts and top rail in concrete, install new mesh, attach tension bands and stretcher bar, set all hardware. | Commercial properties, pet containment, and budget-conscious residential jobs where durability and visibility are acceptable. |
| Ornamental Metal Fence Replacement | Remove old fence, set new posts in concrete, install aluminum or powder-coated steel panels, attach all hardware and caps. | Upscale residential and commercial properties where appearance and durability are both essential, or where HOA rules require metal fencing. |
Fence Replacement and Removal Cost in Memphis: What to Expect
Fence replacement cost in Memphis depends on the length of your fence line, the material you choose, site access, and whether the ground is level or sloped. A typical residential replacement starts at $2,200 for a shorter run of basic chain link or wood fence. Longer runs, premium materials like vinyl or ornamental metal, and difficult site conditions will increase the total. Getting two or three estimates from local contractors helps you understand the range and what each price includes.
Several factors move the cost up or down. A fence that runs 200 linear feet costs more than one that runs 100 feet. Vinyl and ornamental metal cost more per linear foot than pressure-treated wood or chain link. If your lot is sloped, we may need to install the fence in a stepped or racked pattern, which takes more time. If the old fence is deeply rooted or the posts were set in concrete years ago, removal takes longer. Access matters too: a fence that runs along a narrow side yard or through a wooded area may cost more to remove and replace than one along an open property line.
The best way to know your cost is to request a free estimate. We visit your property, measure the line, discuss your material and style preferences, and provide a detailed quote. See our pricing page for more detail on what each material and scope includes.
What to Look for When Hiring a Fence Replacement Contractor Near Me in Memphis
Choosing the right contractor for fence replacement and removal is as important as choosing the right material. Look for a contractor who is fully insured with general liability and workers' compensation coverage, who can provide a certificate of insurance on request, and who can show you references from recent jobs in your area. Ask about their experience with your chosen material and whether they understand local permits and HOA rules. Get multiple estimates so you can compare scope, timeline, and price.
In Tennessee, fence installation work below $3,000 does not require a state contractor license in most counties, but work between $3,000 and $25,000 in Shelby County (which includes Memphis) requires a Home Improvement license from the state. Work at or above $25,000 requires a state contractor license. These thresholds are set by law and vary by county and project scope. Always verify with the Memphis or Shelby County building department whether a permit is required for your specific job.
Check whether your neighborhood has an HOA or deed restrictions that govern fence materials, height, or color. Some Memphis communities, particularly in Collierville, Germantown, and master-planned areas, have architectural guidelines that must be followed. Confirm these rules before you start, and ask your contractor whether they have experience working in your community.
For a free estimate and to discuss your specific project, contact us at (901) 612-2383. We respond within 24 hours and can answer questions about permits, materials, and timelines.
Fence Replacement & Removal in Memphis: Pricing Guide
| Service | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Privacy Fence Replacement | Starting at $2,200 | Removal of old fence, new posts set in concrete, pressure-treated or cedar boards installed board-on-board or side-by-side, includes cap and trim for a 100-linear-foot run |
| Vinyl Fence Replacement | Starting at $2,800 | Removal of old fence, new posts set in concrete, vinyl panels or pickets installed, hardware and trim included for approximately 100 linear feet of standard privacy height |
| Chain Link Fence Replacement | Starting at $1,800 | Removal of old fence, new posts and top rail set in concrete, mesh installed with tension bands and stretcher bar, hardware set for 100 linear feet of 4-foot or 6-foot height |
| Ornamental Metal Fence Replacement | Starting at $3,200 | Removal of old fence, new posts set in concrete, aluminum or powder-coated steel panels installed with caps and all hardware for 100 linear feet of standard residential height |
| Removal and Disposal Only | Starting at $600 | Old fence removed and hauled away, posts cut off at ground level or extracted, site cleared and cleaned for approximately 100 linear feet |
| Free Estimate | No charge | Site visit, property line review, material discussion, and detailed quote provided within 24 hours, no obligation to book or proceed with work |
Indicative pricing, the exact cost depends on square footage, finish, and site access. Free personalized estimate within 24h at (901) 612-2383.