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Maintain your wattle fence by inspecting it at least twice per year for loose weaving and degrading branches. Replace any seriously degraded sections, ensure water drains properly around the posts, and trim any sprouting branches if you used green wood. If you notice the weave loosening, you can often tighten it by gently pushing down on the top branches. You can also apply a natural wood preservative every two to three years to extend the fence's lifespan.

How long a wood fence lasts depends on the type of wood and its style. The design of a shadow box fence makes it more durable than other fence types because the alternating pickets disperse the weight across the rails. As a result, you won’t have to worry as much about sagging or failing pickets. However, remember that the hollow design of a shadow box fence makes it more difficult to apply the sealer, which is crucial to extending its life.

Determining the best type of fence to contain your pet can be tricky. Consult a pet fence installer and consider the following questions:

• What size pet do you have? Some fence types, like chain link, are too short to contain large dogs.

• Is digging an issue? Some fences, like brick or stone, help minimize digging at the fence line, where wood fences aren’t as adequate. 

• Do you need to block your pet’s view of the neighbor's yard? Some fences, like metal iron fencing and chain link, don’t offer an obstructed view.

When it comes to materials, wire fences are the cheapest option. The average cost for a 150-foot wire fence is $1,350. The next cheapest material is chain-link, followed by wood.

As far as the style of fence, smaller, less private fences are cheaper than large, elaborate fences that block your whole yard. That’s why split-rail fences are the cheapest option for wooden fences. They cost roughly $10 to $30 per linear foot.