How Long Does a Fence Last?
Quick Answer
Fence lifespan depends on material: bamboo lasts 5-15 years, wood 10-20 years, vinyl 20-30 years, aluminum 20-30 years, composite 25-35 years, and metal 20-40 years.
Fence Lifespan by Material
How long your fence lasts depends primarily on the material and how well it's maintained:
- Bamboo: 5–15 years
- Wood (pressure-treated pine): 10–20 years
- Cedar: 15–25 years
- Vinyl: 20–30 years
- Aluminum: 20–30 years
- Metal panel: 20–40 years
- Composite: 25–35 years
How to Maximize Lifespan
Proper installation is the biggest factor — ensure posts are set deep enough in concrete and the fence doesn't touch the ground directly. For wood fences, stain or seal every 2-3 years. For metal, address any rust spots immediately.
Need to calculate how much fencing you need?
Use our free fence calculator to estimate materials for your project.