Get matched with top fencing pros in Sandown, NH

The standard height for a split rail fence is three or four feet. This height requires two to three horizontal rails, making it ideal for homeowners wanting a budget-friendly split rail fence. If you’re hoping to contain agile livestock or animals like dogs, geese, or goats, you may prefer to install a six-foot tall fence with four or five rails or a four-foot-tall fence with three horizontal rails. This will help prevent animals from climbing, crawling, or jumping through the rails.

Galvanized metal, vinyl, and composite fences are known to be the longest-lasting options, often surviving for over 30 years with proper care. Metal fences, including galvanized chain link and aluminum, can look great for decades because the galvanization process adds a protective coating that resists weather and pests. Similarly, vinyl and composite materials are resistant to pests and can withstand harsh weather for many years. In comparison, a typical wood fence lasts about 15 years, and a standard vinyl fence has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.

You'll pay less on average for the cost of a wooden fence compared to aluminum. However, the price highly depends on the type of wood, the fence design, and extra additions like gates and coats of paint. For example, you may pay less to install an aluminum fence since the panels anchor in the ground, whereas wood fences often take longer to construct, especially picket fences.

Whether you need a permit to build or install a fence depends on several factors, including your location, the fence's height, its placement in your yard, and the materials used. In many cities and highly populated areas, a permit is required, especially for fences taller than 6 feet. Conversely, rural areas may have fewer restrictions. Typically, backyard privacy fences 6 feet or shorter do not require a permit, while front yard fences often have a lower height limit, sometimes as low as 3.5 feet. There can also be exceptions for properties in mixed residential-commercial zones. It's best to check with your local building inspection or zoning department to understand the specific requirements, height restrictions, and location rules for your area. A professional fence installer can help you navigate this process and often secure the necessary permits for you, though this may extend the project timeline.