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Pickets should sit at least 2 inches off the ground to encourage groundwater to flow underneath. Pickets can sit as much as 6 inches off the ground, but setting it any higher could let pets in or out of your yard unintentionally. These are not to be confused with the fence posts anchored underground with soil or concrete footing.

Vegetable gardens can easily become a convenient food bank for your local animal population, whether it’s squirrels stealing fruit or rabbits munching on freshly grown veggies. If you want to keep those critters out, it helps to put a fence around your vegetable garden that’s at least a couple of feet tall to deter any animals from getting past it. Just make sure your fence doesn’t interrupt the amount of sunlight your garden needs to thrive. 

A horizontal fence is typically more expensive to build than a vertical fence, often costing between 10% and 20% more. The higher cost is due to the need for a higher grade of lumber and more posts to prevent the boards from sagging, which increases both material and labor expenses. Despite the higher price, horizontal fences tend to be more durable and offer a more distinct, modern look compared to the more common vertical picket style. However, they may not be the best option for privacy, as there can be slight gaps between the horizontal rails.

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.