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You shouldn’t try to touch the electric fence, as it will shock you. Typically, the shock is low enough to be uncomfortable to humans or animals that come into contact with the fence. But an electric fence with high voltage, or a faulty fence, could shock you and cause serious injuries when touched.

Fences last anywhere from 10 to 50 years. Metal and glass fences have some of the longest lifespans, while wooden fences have one of the shortest lifespans, lasting around 15 years on average. Vinyl fences last somewhere in between, at around 20 to 30 years. You can extend the life of your fence by taking good care of it. Routine maintenance, like inspecting the fence, cleaning it, and repairing any sections that need it can go a long way.

How long a fence should last depends on the type of fence, but a common split wooden fence should last seven to 10 years. Chain link can last much longer, with wrought iron and concrete lasting decades. If you're interested in your fence lasting as long as possible—and it's made of wood—consider sealing and treating the wood so it can stand up to the environment. Wood is the only fence type that requires this, as concrete and metal are almost always waterproof.

The lifespan of a picket fence largely depends on its material. Wooden picket fences typically last 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance, while vinyl and composite picket fences can last 20 to 30 years or more due to their resistance to weather, rot, and pests. Metal picket fences often exceed 30 years, especially when properly coated to prevent rust or corrosion.