Find Skilled Deck & Porch Contractors, Gate Installers, and Fence Builders Across Texas

Fence installation in Texas typically runs $14–$51 per linear foot for a standard 6-foot fence, depending on material. Wood privacy fences average $15–$35/ft, vinyl $20–$50/ft, aluminum $25–$60/ft, and composite $30–$75/ft. A typical 200-foot backyard project lands between $3,000 and $10,000 installed. Labor alone is roughly $8–$12 per foot for standard residential work. If you're also planning a deck or patio in the same yard, bundling with a single contractor can reduce mobilization costs.

Western Red Cedar and high-performance composite are the top choices for Texas heat, humidity, and expansive soils. Cedar naturally resists rot, insects, and thermal expansion, and can last 20+ years when properly sealed. Composite outperforms vinyl in extreme heat due to higher density and reduced thermal expansion. Vinyl is a solid low-maintenance option but can warp in sustained temperatures above 100°F unless rated for heat resistance. For ornamental or security applications, powder-coated wrought iron offers the longest lifespan.

No statewide permit is required for residential fences in Texas. However, individual cities set their own rules. In most cities, a standard 6-foot backyard privacy fence does not require a permit. Exceptions include front-yard fences (often limited to 4 feet in cities like Dallas), masonry or concrete fences (Houston requires a permit regardless of height), and any fence over 8 feet. HOA covenants may impose additional restrictions. A reputable fence contractor will verify local requirements before scheduling installation.

Fence repair in Texas averages $15–$50 per linear foot depending on material: wood $15–$25/ft, vinyl $20–$35/ft, chain-link $8–$20/ft, and wrought iron $25–$50/ft. A single post replacement (including concrete) runs $150–$400. A flat-rate wood fence repair job typically costs $138–$700. If your fence has sustained storm damage, check for post-base rot early — replacing rotted posts before the next wind event is far cheaper than a full fence replacement.

Most new decks in Texas cost $25–$80 per square foot installed, with the average project totaling $4,000–$12,500. Pressure-treated pine runs $25–$50/sq ft, cedar $30–$47/sq ft, composite $40–$80/sq ft, and ipe hardwood $50–$70/sq ft. Labor is $11–$25/sq ft for wood and $24–$48/sq ft for composite. A 12×16 (192 sq ft) elevated deck typically costs $5,400–$10,800. If you're pairing a new deck with fencing or a gate for the same property, a combined quote often saves on mobilization and scheduling.

Deck repair in Texas averages $3–$45 per square foot, with most homeowners spending $728–$3,345 depending on scope. Common repair costs: board replacement $500–$4,000, railing repair $50–$150 per linear foot, stair repair $100–$300 per step, foundation/pier repair $300–$800 each, and mold/rot treatment $200–$500. A full structural repair (posts, beams, ledger) runs $850–$2,600. If your deck is beyond repair, a full replacement in Texas costs $4,500–$18,000.

Most Texas cities require a building permit if the deck is attached to the home, exceeds 200 square feet, or rises more than 30 inches above finished grade. Decks under 200 sq ft and under 30 inches in height are often exempt. Permit fees typically range from $100–$500 depending on the municipality. Building without a required permit can result in fines, forced removal, or complications when selling the home. A licensed deck contractor will pull the permit and handle inspections on your behalf.

Seal your wood deck every 1–2 years in Texas due to intense UV exposure, heat cycling, and humidity. Pressure-washing and re-sealing costs $500–$1,700 for a typical residential deck. Composite decks do not require sealing but benefit from annual cleaning. Skipping sealant in Texas's climate accelerates graying, checking, and moisture intrusion, leading to more expensive deck repair down the road.

Gate installation in Texas ranges from $205–$6,185 depending on type, material, and size. A standard walk-through gate (3–4 ft) costs $250–$800 installed. A double-swing driveway gate (10–14 ft) runs $800–$3,500 for wood or iron. A manual sliding gate (10–20 ft) costs $800–$2,000. Labor alone is approximately $180–$300 for a 4–6 hour install. If your gate is part of a larger fence project, the combined quote will typically be more cost-effective per foot.

Automatic gate systems in Texas range from $3,000–$12,000+ installed. A motorized swing gate (iron or aluminum, 10–16 ft) costs $3,500–$7,000. A motorized sliding gate (12–20 ft) runs $4,500–$12,000+. This includes gate fabrication, motor, wiring, trenching, access control (keypad or remote), and safety sensors. Initial programming and setup adds $500–$800. Ongoing maintenance (motor inspection, lubrication) is roughly $150–$300 per year.

For Texas heat and wind, powder-coated aluminum and wrought iron are the top choices — both resist corrosion, handle thermal expansion well, and require minimal upkeep. A sliding (cantilever) gate is generally preferred over a swing gate in high-wind areas because it doesn't swing open and act as a sail. For properties with expansive clay soils (common across North and Central Texas), a sliding gate also avoids the settling issues that can misalign swing gate hinges. Pairing a driveway gate with a matching ornamental iron fence creates a cohesive security perimeter.