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A silt fence should be buried in a trench that is 6 to 12 inches deep. A depth of at least 6 to 8 inches is necessary to prevent water and sediment from running underneath the fence. A deeper trench, up to 12 inches, provides better anchoring during wet and windy weather. To ensure proper installation, look for a red line on the silt fence fabric, which often indicates the correct burial depth. Always adhere to local guidelines and regulations; a professional contractor will be familiar with these requirements.

A high-quality wrought iron fence is one of the most durable options available and can last a lifetime, or even centuries, with proper care. However, wrought iron is susceptible to rust and corrosion if not maintained.

To maximize its lifespan, regular maintenance is required. This includes:

• Cleaning the fence with soapy water every six months.

• Scrubbing away any rust or corrosion as soon as it appears.

• Applying a new coat of paint or refinishing the fence every few years to protect the metal from moisture and oxygen. The recommended frequency varies, with sources suggesting anywhere from every 1 to 10 years.

If significant rust develops, it's wise to hire a professional fence repair company to clean the rust and reseal the fence. The cost to refinish a fence is typically between $5 and $12 per square foot, a worthwhile investment to ensure its longevity.

To effectively keep animals out of your yard with a fence, choose a fence that anchors to the ground to deter digging. Also, consider adding a barrier below the fence to prevent burrowing. 

To make your yard less desirable to animals, eliminate food sources like a vegetable garden, and ensure your garbage cans are sealed and tamper-proof. Installing motion-activated devices like lights or sprinklers will startle animal intruders. Also, a fence won’t work well if you forget to keep gates closed and secure. If you still face persistent animal intrusion issues, contact a wildlife control expert who can offer specialized solutions.

You’ll need to bury the garden fence about 1 foot underground. It’s tempting to save on materials by burying the fence just a couple of inches, but if you do so, determined pests will still be able to dig under the fence and access your plants. Burying your garden fence deep into the soil is an important step that allows you to attach a wire barrier to the fencing. 

Burrowing animals (like voles, moles, rabbits, and gophers) can’t dig or chew through this wiring, meaning that you’ll be keeping your prized petunias or your robust veggie garden from being eaten.