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The ideal spacing for four-by-four residential fence posts is usually about 6 to 8 feet between posts. However, if the fence is particularly high or you live in a very windy region, you might want to space them closer together for better stability. A fence pro can help you decide on your post spacing. 

Since wood is weaker when installed horizontally versus vertically, a horizontal fence is prone to sagging. You can prevent this drooping from happening by building a sturdier fence. Use softwoods that are more stable, such as cedar and redwood, or denser hardwoods for your fence materials. If you can’t afford these pricey materials, use thicker two-by-six pressure-treated pine boards or shorten the span the fence boards have to cover by installing more posts.

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.

In most states, it is a legal requirement to have a fence around your pool to protect both swimmers and pool owners. These laws can vary by state, city, and county, so you must research the specific regulations in your area before installation. The rules may also differ for inground versus above-ground pools, with inground pools typically requiring a full fence. Additionally, most homeowners' insurance providers will require a fence around a residential pool before providing coverage. As a general rule, it's always best to have a fence for everyone's safety.