Check out our stone fence ideas and DIY building project for your stone garden fence, stone column fence, or stone privacy fence.
Stone fences have been a staple for high-end luxury homes over the decades. While adding stone fencing to the perimeter of your home may feel like a daunting task. We are here to show you that it can be done in an affordable way if you are willing to put in some of the work yourself. So how much does stone fencing cost?
As a general rule stone fencing will cost $25-$85 per square foot for natural stone and $20-$45 per square foot for faux stone. The cost will change based on the exact stone you choose and the labor rate depending on hiring a stonemason or choosing to do the work yourself.
With labor from a stonemason being one of the largest costs of adding a fence made out of stone to your home. I want to show you how to build your own stone wall fence, stone garden fence, or stone column fence by making it a DIY project.
But first, let answer some questions you may have before taking on this project.
How long do stone fences last?
One of the best attributes of masonry work is that with a little mortar, stone material, and elbow grease you can have a fence that lasts way beyond your lifetime. One of the reasons stone fencing is expensive is that unlike wood and vinyl fencing, which will have to be replaced, a stone fence can be a permanent solution for your property. Knowing that adding stonework to my home will be enjoyed for future generations, is personally one of the aspects of stonework I am drawn the most.
Materials: Natural Stone vs Stone Veneer
This is a question that comes up quite a bit whenever a homeowner decides to start a stone fencing project. What is the right type of stone material to use for my project? There are typically two options to choose from.
The first option is natural stone that is quarried from the earth.
And the second option has several names: stone veneer, faux stone, manufactured stone, and cultured stone. All these names simply mean that the stone is man-made and does not come from a natural source like a stone quarry.
Natural Stone
| Pros | Cons |
| Durability | Heavy Material |
| Natural Color | Cost More |
| Harder to cut | |
| Harder to Source |
Manufacture Stone Veneer
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to Handle | Durability |
| Easy to cut | Color lasting |
| Lots of Options | Fake Look |
How to Build a Stone Fence
Building a stone fence really comes down to both art and science. To have a secure and long-lasting stone fence, you will want to make sure the footing for your stone or veneer fence is done correctly. The finished look of the stones is based more on the style and preference of the individual stone layer. Decisions such as the orientation of the stone (flat or stacked), along with the thickness of the mortar gaps between your stones, have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your project. We also have instructions and ideas on how to build a brick fence here.
Materials you will need
The first thing before you start is to go to a local concrete and rock supply store in your area. Keep in mind, they may not have the style of stone in stock and it may have to be ordered which can set your project back a few days or even weeks. I have used stone veneer from eldorado stone on past projects and have been very happy with their style and selection of stones to choose from.
Next, you will need to order concrete and mortar for your project.
PRO TIP: Most Rock and gravel commercial stores can easily help you calculate the estimated amount of mortar and yards of concrete you will need for your project. They can do this base on the type and size of stone along with the stone manufactures recommendations.
Stone block or another type of substrate to attach the back of the stone to.
Tools You will need
A square shovel for trenching the footer. This will also be used for shoveling and mixing mortar.
Make sure you have a wheelbarrow on hand to transport the stone and mix the mortar.
Measuring tape to help determine height and length.
A level for checking plumb on your fence and optionally stone columns.
A hammer to help chip corners and form the shape of the stone as you lay it out.
You man optionally need a chop saw or handheld grinder with a diamond blade to help cut the natural stone or faux stone for your fence.
Stone Fence Installation
Much like building any masonry structure, it’s very important the footing and foundation of your project are precise and accurate. If you choose to slack on creating the proper foundation for your stone wall or fence, you will quickly find yourself regretting your decision.
- Start by digging a trench for the footer. The trench should be around 12 inches wide.
- Next, pour the concrete into the trench and let it set up for the recommended time based on the concrete manufactures specs. This is usually 24 to 48 hours depending on the temperature in your area. Make sure to add rebar in the area where you have laid out any columns for extra support.
- Once the footer is dried you are now able to mix the mortar and start working on laying out your wall. Now is when you would typically lay your stone block to build a wall for the stone to attach to. Once complete allow time for the stone and mortar to set.
- Now you can start adding the actual stone to your stone block. Attach the stone by adding a generous amout of mortar to the back of each stone.
Stone Fence Ideas (Pictures)
Stone and Iron Fence Ideas
Stone Wall Fence
Stone Wall with Fence on Top
Stone Fence Posts
Stone Privacy Fence
Modern Stone Fence
Wood Fence with Stone Columns
Stone Vinyl Fence
Faux Stone Fence
Stone Column Fence
Conclusion
As you can tell there are quite a few steps and considerations to building your own stone fence. If you are not the DIY type and still want stone you will most likely have to pay considerably more based on the added labor and markups. You may also consider looking into some of the options in our photo gallery. Many of these fences are only partially stone, which can cut down on the overall cost considerably, while still adding the touch of class stone brings to a fence.