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The lifespan of a picket fence largely depends on its material. Wooden picket fences typically last 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance, while vinyl and composite picket fences can last 20 to 30 years or more due to their resistance to weather, rot, and pests. Metal picket fences often exceed 30 years, especially when properly coated to prevent rust or corrosion.

How much does a privacy fence cost? Stockade fences cost $12 to $13 per linear foot for materials. You may find fencing that costs less, but it’s likely wholesale wood manufactured using young trees. Fencing materials made with young trees are less durable than those made with mature trees.

For installation, expect to pay $30 to $80 per hour. Installing a 150- to 200-linear-foot fence takes 20 to 35 hours, which comes to about $600 to $2,800 for labor.

Wire fences are generally the most inexpensive type of farm fence to install, especially compared to lumber. Barbed wire is one of the cheapest options due to its simple materials, making it a good choice for low budgets and for confining docile animals in large spaces. Other options include hog wire and woven wire fences, which are strong, long-lasting, and relatively easy to repair. While wire fences require less lumber and reduce overall project costs, they are often considered less aesthetically pleasing than traditional wood fences.

The most durable metal for a fence is wrought iron. With proper care, a wrought iron fence can last for centuries. This means regular resealing to stave off rust and corrosion, especially in coastal climates with salty sea air. In these environments, chain link and corrugated fencing tend to stand up better to the elements with fewer maintenance needs.