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The most affordable metal fence type is wire at just $3 to $5 per linear foot. Wire fences come in a variety of styles and do a good job of marking perimeters and keeping animals in or out of certain areas. While they’re very easy to install and repair, many homeowners find them unattractive, and many homeowners associations won’t allow them.

A barbed wire fence will last an average of 15 to 20 years, but the life expectancy can range anywhere between five and 50 years. Thicker wires last longer, as do fences made with galvanized metal. If the barbed wire fence is in a climate with harsh winters and summers, it likely won’t last more than 10 to 15 years. Failing to keep up with maintenance and repairs will also shorten the lifespan of a barbed wire fence.

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.

Knowing how close to the property line you can build a fence is an important planning step in your fence installation project. In many U.S. states, you are allowed to build a fence directly on the property line as long as your neighbor signs off on the plan. But check with your state government because some states and municipalities require a couple of inches before your property line.