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A setback is an area of space between your fence and the property line, meaning you build a fence a few inches before your neighbor’s property begins. You can build your fence on a setback—some communities recommend this—but this means a sliver of your property will be on your neighbor’s side of your fence.

If you’re trying to keep your dog from running away, an electric fence isn’t the only fence type for your yard worth considering. The cost of dog fences can range from $1,500 to $8,000, with popular materials including wood, vinyl, or aluminum to keep your pet safe and sound. 

If you’re trying to keep livestock in their pasture, other fencing options include woven wire, high-tensile wire, and synthetic fencing. These options give your animals boundaries without the use of electricity. 

There are two things you can do to make a fence replacement easier—but keep in mind that easier doesn’t mean better. First, you can use a jack or some other type of machinery to pull the post out of the ground. If that’s not available, a digging bar can help.

Second, you can backfill the hole with gravel rather than creating a concrete footing. Keep in mind, gravel is less secure. You should only use it if you’re installing a lightweight fence or have heavier, clay soil.

It’s usually cheaper to buy pre-made fence panels than to build your own. This surprises many people since DIY tasks so often save money. However, large stores don’t have to pay the same amount per board of wood that homeowners do, allowing them to sell pre-made panels at a more cost-effective rate. Pre-made panels also save a great deal of time, energy, and guesswork. The drawback is that they are harder to customize to the shape and slope of your yard.