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The right fence depends on the animals you’re keeping. Woven or high-tensile wire works for pigs, sheep, and goats and keeps costs low. Cattle benefit from an extra strand of barbed wire for added bite. Horses need something they can see—think mesh wire, electric tape, or split-rail rails—and the fence should stand at least five feet tall, with more height for larger breeds.

To keep deer out, install a dedicated game fence made of woven wire and run it at least eight feet high. The extra height stops deer from jumping, while the tight mesh blocks squeeze and climb, giving your garden or pasture a reliable barrier against damage from curious deer that are browsing near your property.

A well-maintained pipe fence can serve you for 20 to 50 years, depending on the material. High-quality steel withstands harsh weather, and routine maintenance, such as knocking off rust and applying protective coatings, helps keep corrosion in check. Stay on top of those tasks, and your fence should stay strong for decades.