A fence post set in concrete lasts anywhere from five to over 25 years, depending on how well the concrete was applied and the fence post’s material. Untreated wood posts in concrete could last less than 10 years, but a durable, treated wood set in properly applied concrete could last a few decades. However, all fence posts will wear out eventually, so expect to need to replace your fence post every five to 15 years.

When deciding to replace or repair your existing fence, consider the 20% rule that fence builders reference. This rule states that if more than 20% of your fence needs repair, you should skip the repair and replace it. Additionally, if your fence is nearing the end of its life, it's often best to replace it.

Repairing the fence is a good option when you have minimal damage or damage from a specific event versus wear and tear. Your fence repair professional can assess the damage and compare the repair price with the cost of a new fence.

How long a wood fence lasts depends on the type of wood and its style. The design of a shadow box fence makes it more durable than other fence types because the alternating pickets disperse the weight across the rails. As a result, you won’t have to worry as much about sagging or failing pickets. However, remember that the hollow design of a shadow box fence makes it more difficult to apply the sealer, which is crucial to extending its life.

When it comes to maintenance, vinyl fencing is your best bet for not having to worry about scratches, repainting, or wear and tear from the weather. Vinyl is a material made of polyvinyl chloride (also known as PVC) that can last for years without requiring repairs or maintenance. It’s also one of the lower-cost fence materials to build with.