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One of the best features of composite fences is their long lifespan. You can expect your composite fence to last 20 to 30 years. It lasts long because it consists of recycled plastic and wood fibers. The plastic offers durability that wood alone can’t provide. It’s mold- and rot-resistant, as well as weather-resistant.

Posts for a horizontal fence should be no more than 6 feet apart. Wood pickets are not as strong when mounted horizontally as when mounted vertically. As such, the fence panels on a horizontal fence can’t cover the same span between posts as a vertical fence can. If you install the posts further apart on a horizontal fence, the fence will lose stability, making the boards more likely to sag. 

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.

Most adult chickens can't fit through the large openings in a hog wire fence. However, young chicks or small breeds of chickens could potentially squeeze through a hog wire fence. To prevent this, consider adding extra reinforcements such as chicken wire fencing, mesh, or hardware cloth.