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Posts for a horizontal fence should be no more than 6 feet apart. Wood pickets are not as strong when mounted horizontally as when mounted vertically. As such, the fence panels on a horizontal fence can’t cover the same span between posts as a vertical fence can. If you install the posts further apart on a horizontal fence, the fence will lose stability, making the boards more likely to sag. 

Cedar is the most popular type of wood used for fencing, thanks to its natural durability and resistance to rot and insects. Pressure-treated pine and redwood are also widely used and are popular alternatives. All three of these materials are readily available at most hardware stores, which makes repairs and replacements easier over time. Their accessibility and long-lasting performance make them top choices for those looking to build or maintain a wood fence.

The average lifespan of a vinyl fence is 20 to 30 years. But with regular maintenance and care, some vinyl fences can last up to 50 years. To keep your fence in good shape, we recommend cleaning it every few months with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap, regularly inspecting it for damage, and trimming nearby trees to reduce the chance of impact damage or mold growth.

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.