You’ve made the decision that your yard needs a new wood fence. Now, it’s time to decide on the style! There are a lot of options out there, and it’s important to think this through so you get exactly what you want.

How do you choose the right wood fence style?

When choosing your fence style, you should consider three points: application, space and budget. We'll walk through each point and offer questions you should consider when making your choice.

Application

Where is this fence going? Why do you want to put it there?

Backyard – Looking to transform your backyard into a secluded haven? Or provide a secure space for your kids or pets? Privacy and semi-privacy fence styles make for ideal backyard fencing. If you’re looking for complete privacy, go with a style with minimal gapping between the pickets such as Dog Ear Privacy or Board-on-Board. If you want some privacy but still want some flow of air and light, choose a semi-privacy style like Shadowbox or Lattice Top. Most privacy panels are 6 ft. tall and range from 6 ft. to 8 ft. in width.

Front yard – Front yard fencing is all about curb appeal, so it tends to be more decorative than backyard fencing. It can also provide a function by keeping children and pets in your yard. Most front yard fencing uses a spaced picket style, which provides the flow of air and light along with a welcoming feel. Spaced picket fencing comes in a variety of sizes and picket top styles.

Garden – Garden fencing offers protection from animals or provides decoration. Spaced picket fencing or our hogwire framed fence are great options for gardeners.

Pasture – Perhaps you have a large pasture or property that you want to define. Post and rail fencing may be the best option for you. It's typically more cost-effective than other fence styles, and effectively marks property lines while maintaining an open feel. Post and rail fencing styles vary regionally. Three common styles are Split Rail, Corral Board and Post and Dowel.

Space

What does your space look like?

Consider your surroundings when picking out your fence. Most fences have multiple picket top options to choose from. Find one that best suits your house and neighborhood. Also look at the terrain. If you have a sloped yard, choose a fence style that will work well on an incline.

Note: If you are building on a sloped landscape, you have a couple ways to conquer it. Read more in this post.

Budget

How much do you want to spend?

There is a wood fence option for every application, space and budget. Wood fence costs vary based on style, species and whether you want it treated. Keep that in mind as you make your choice.

If you can’t find the perfect preassembled fence to suit your needs, build your own custom fence design with individual wood fence components.

Questions? Leave a comment below or contact us!