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This depends mainly on how well the posts were installed and what type of wood was used to build the gate in the first place. Softwoods have a life expectancy of up to 15 years but can last slightly longer with regular maintenance and waterproofing treatments. By contrast, hardwoods can last up to 30 years with little care, so you may avoid costly replacements by spending a little more upfront.

Green branches are more flexible and easier to work with, but they'll shrink as they dry, which can loosen your fence weave over time—so you'll need to weave them extra tight to account for shrinkage. Some species, particularly willow, may also try to sprout when used green. For these reasons, it’s typically easiest to use branches that have dried for a week or two.

Planting greenery on a fence can help achieve more privacy, whether it’s shrubs along a picket or chain link fence or rolls of faux greenery to help create a solid-colored backdrop beyond the fence line. You can also try adding more lattice or paneling across a fence so that there are fewer places where passing eyeballs can see in.

You can DIY a stockade fence installation, but prepare to put in some good sweat equity. For the best results, carefully plan the exact location of your fence before you break ground. In particular, carefully map out your post locations before setting them in concrete. Be sure to call your local utility company before digging to avoid damaging underground wiring and causing severe injury.

On the other hand, installing stockade fencing on your own might sound too overwhelming. It’s certainly time-consuming and labor-intensive. Besides the hard work, you must install it properly to avoid gaps. Unless you’re confident you can get the job done right, hiring a privacy fence installer near you is the way to go.