6 Types of Privacy Fences for your Home

The privacy fence is an essential part of your home. It protects you and your family from prying eyes, while also giving you a sense of security. There are many different types of privacy fences that will work for any budget or aesthetic preference.

In this blog post we’ll go over the multiple design options and materials. We’ll also talk about what to look for when choosing the right type of fence for your needs so that you can get started on planning out a beautiful new addition to your property!

Privacy Fence Styles

Privacy fence styles range from formal and forbidding to charming and welcoming. In addition to their look and feel, fence designs vary in the amount of privacy they provide.

Because your fence affects the ambiance of your whole landscape, it’s worth taking some time to get familiar with the options available, and then weigh the pros and cons of each.

Our list of privacy fence types:

Stockade

The stockade style fence is the most common type of privacy fence. Often when homeowners seek an estimate for a privacy fence what they mean in a stockade fence.

These fences consist of side-by-side boards with no gap. The top of the fence can be finished with simple pointed pickets or gothic points for more style. The pointed pickets provide security by discouraging climbers.

For even more style a horizontal top cap and trim can be added for a more finished look. See our article on design ideas for privacy fences for inspiration.

Shadow Box

Shadow Box fences, also called “shadowbox,” are among the most popular options for creating backyard privacy.

In this design, boards are placed on opposite sides of the central rail with alternating positioning to create a symmetrical pattern that looks the same from both sides. These fences earn the nickname the “good neighbor fence” since your neighbors see the same finished look as you.

To provide privacy, the alternating boards are placed close enough to eliminate gaps between the boards’ edges. However, airflow can still pass between boards. On the downside, this means that individuals at an angle can see through it as well.

Typically, shadow box fences are made of wood. Pressure-treated pine is a common choice, with cedar being an upgrade in appearance and cost.

You can also purchase vinyl shadow box fence panels in six foot sections.

Board on Board

Board on board fencing is constructed with overlapping vertical pickets. Every other board covers the gap between the two underneath pickets. Unlike a shadowbox fence there is no space between the alternating pickets. All of the pickets are attached to the same side of the rails.

A board on board fence will be very study and afford complete privacy. The cost will be higher since more pickets are needed due to the overlap.

Lock Board

This type of fence has boards fit together tongue-and-groove style to create a solid panel that blocks the view. Lock board fencing will be even more sturdy than a stockade fence.

Unlike a stockade fence, there is no visible gap to allow for expansion. The expansion and contraction takes place within the tongue-and-groove.

A solid lock-board fence will block airflow. This can protect your living area from windy conditions, but will prevent a breeze from cooling you on a hot day.

Lock board fences constructed of cedar provide durability and nice aesthetics.

Lattice

A lattice fence, created from thin slats installed in an open criss-cross pattern, is a more decorative type of privacy fence. Usually this fence will be constructed from pre-built lattice fence panels.

Although not providing complete privacy on its own, a climbing vine can be trained to cover up the fence and increase your level of privacy.

Another option is to install a lattice detail on top of a solid fence, such as a stockade or shadowbox fence. The solid privacy fence protect most of your yard from prying eyes, with the lattice top providing an open appearance and visual interest.

Horizontal

A horizontal privacy fence will be built in the same style as a stockade or shadowbox fence just with the pickets running horizontally. Horizontal fencing provides a modern contemporary look.

White not necessary you often seem horizontal fences finished with flat top rail.

Horizontal fences will be more expensive than vertical fences because they require a higher grade of lumber. The horizontal pickets will sag over time if quality lumber is not used.

Choosing A Fencing Material for Your Privacy Fence

Beyond choosing a privacy fence design you also have some choices in materials

Wood Privacy Fence

Wood privacy fences remain a popular choice for homeowners due to their natural beauty, versatility, and ability to provide excellent privacy. Various types of wood are used in fence construction, each offering unique characteristics in terms of appearance, durability, and cost. The choice of wood can significantly impact the fence’s longevity, maintenance requirements, cost of materials, and overall aesthetic appeal. Here are the main types of wood commonly used for building privacy fences:

Cedar

Cedar is a highly favored wood for fencing due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. It has a pleasant aroma and a beautiful reddish-brown color that weathers to a distinguished gray over time. Cedar is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to work with and long-lasting.

Redwood

Redwood is prized for its rich color and natural resistance to rot and insects. It’s known for its stability and ability to resist warping and shrinking. While more expensive than other options, redwood fences are highly durable and require minimal maintenance.

Pine

Pine, particularly pressure-treated pine, is an affordable and widely available option. It’s treated to resist rot, decay, and insect infestation, making it a durable choice. While not as naturally resistant as cedar or redwood, treated pine can last many years with proper maintenance.

Cypress

Cypress is naturally resistant to decay and insects due to its high content of cypressene, a natural preservative. It has a light color that ages to a silvery gray and is known for its strength and durability. Cypress is often chosen for its distinct grain patterns and knots.

Oak

Oak is extremely strong and durable, making it an excellent choice for fencing. It’s naturally resistant to decay and insects but may require more maintenance to prevent splitting or warping. Oak fences are known for their impressive strength and classic, timeless appearance.

Spruce

Spruce is a lightweight, straight-grained wood that’s easy to work with and readily available. While not as naturally resistant to decay as some other woods, pressure-treated spruce can be a cost-effective option for fencing. It takes stain and paint well, allowing for customization.

Bamboo

Bamboo is an eco-friendly and rapidly renewable material increasingly used for privacy fences. Its natural strength and flexibility make it an excellent alternative to traditional wood fencing. Bamboo fences offer a unique, tropical aesthetic that can enhance the visual appeal of any property.

All of these choices offer tradeoffs between cost, durability and aesthetics. The best choice in wood species will depend on your budget and your home.

Vinyl Privacy Fence

Vinyl offers a durable, low maintenance alternative to wood. Vinyl is stronger than wood and doesn’t rot, split or warp or attract insects. You can clean it with soap and water or a power washer.

• Solid Vinyl Panel Fencing: Available in various heights (4′, 6′, 7′) and colors (white, tan, wood grain), providing complete privacy.
• Semi-Private Fences: Offers mostly privacy while allowing for airflow and light through the fence.
• Horizontal Vinyl Fence: Made up of horizontal rails without spacing, providing privacy with a stylish twist.
• Lattice Top Vinyl Fence: Combines solid vinyl panels with crisscrossed vinyl strips and a top rail for added style.
• Horizontal Angled Slat Vinyl Fence: Features slightly angled slats, allowing a limited view while maintaining privacy.

Colors and Textures

Vinyl fences come in an impressive array of colors that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and architectural styles. Classic white remains a timeless favorite, providing a bright and clean look that complements traditional homes and lush gardens.

For those seeking a more natural appearance, vinyl fences are also available in wood-like tones such as brown, tan, and cedar, which mimic the warmth and texture of real wood without the maintenance.

Modern homeowners might prefer sleek shades of gray or black, which offer a sophisticated and contemporary edge to urban and minimalist landscapes. Additionally, bold and vibrant colors like red, blue, and green are available for those looking to make a unique statement and add a pop of personality to their outdoor spaces.

In terms of texture, vinyl fences are designed to enhance both visual appeal and durability. Smooth finishes provide a sleek, uninterrupted surface that is ideal for minimalist and modern designs, while textured options can mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood grain or stone, adding depth and dimension to the fence.

Embossed patterns and ribbed textures introduce intricate details and tactile interest, making the fence a standout feature in any landscape. Additionally, perforated panels offer a balance between privacy and airflow, allowing light to filter through while maintaining a barrier. These diverse textures not only elevate the aesthetic quality of vinyl fences but also contribute to their long-lasting performance by resisting wear and weather effects.

Composite Privacy Fence

Composite privacy fences have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional wood fences. These fences are made from a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastic, offering the look of wood with enhanced durability and lower maintenance requirements. Composite fencing comes in various styles, colors, and textures, providing homeowners with versatile options to suit their aesthetic preferences and functional needs. Here are the main types of composite privacy fences:

Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC)

Wood-Plastic Composite is the most common type of composite fencing material. It typically consists of wood fibers encased in recycled plastic. WPC fences offer excellent resistance to rot, insects, and weathering. They come in a wide range of colors and textures, often mimicking the appearance of natural wood.

Polyethylene-Based Composite

This type of composite uses high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as its primary component, mixed with wood fibers or mineral fillers. Polyethylene-based composites are known for their durability, color retention, and resistance to moisture. They often have a more plastic-like appearance compared to WPC.

Polypropylene-Based Composite

Polypropylene-based composites offer high strength and stiffness. These fences are typically lighter than other composite options and have good resistance to chemicals and UV radiation. They can be engineered to closely resemble natural wood textures.

Vinyl-Wood Composite

This type of composite combines PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with wood fibers. Vinyl-wood composites offer excellent durability and low maintenance, with the added benefit of wood’s natural appearance. They are highly resistant to moisture and insects.

Capped Composite

Capped composite fencing features a protective outer layer that encapsulates the inner composite core. This layer provides enhanced protection against fading, staining, and scratching. Capped composites often offer the most realistic wood-like appearance and come in a variety of color options.

Hollow-Core Composite

Hollow-core composite fences are designed with internal chambers, making them lighter and easier to install than solid composite options. They still offer good durability and insulation properties, and the hollow design can help reduce material costs.

Each type of composite fencing offers unique benefits in terms of appearance, durability, and performance. The choice between them often depends on specific environmental conditions, aesthetic preferences, and budget considerations.

Metal Privacy Fence

When selecting a privacy fence, metal options offer a blend of durability, security, and modern aesthetics. From sleek aluminum panels to rugged steel structures, metal privacy fences come in various styles that provide long-lasting protection while enhancing the look of your property. In this section, we will explore the different types of metal privacy fences, each with unique features suited for various needs and design preferences.

Aluminum

Aluminum privacy fences offer a stylish and durable solution for enhancing any property’s security and aesthetic appeal. With a wide array of styles available, homeowners and businesses can choose designs that provide the desired level of privacy and complement their architectural preferences and landscape. Whether you seek a modern minimalist look or a more ornate and decorative appearance, aluminum fences come in various styles to meet diverse needs and tastes.

• Solid Panel Fences: Completely opaque panels for maximum privacy.
• Vertical Slat Fences: Vertical aluminum slats between horizontal rails for a sleek, modern look.
• Horizontal Slat Fences: Horizontal orientation of slats, allowing some light while maintaining privacy.
• Laser Cut Fence Panels: Feature intricate, precise patterns cut into aluminum panels, providing a decorative yet private fencing option that adds elegance and customization to any property.
• Cable Top Fences: Minimalistic design featuring horizontal cables paired with solid panels.

Steel

Steel privacy fences are versatile and durable solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. They offer a range of styles to cater to different needs and aesthetics, ensuring both privacy and security. Here are some popular steel privacy fence styles:

• Corrugated Galvanized Steel Panels: These panels provide a modern and rugged appearance, often used for industrial and commercial properties due to their durability and low maintenance.
• Distressed or Rusted Metal Panels: This style offers a unique aesthetic with a weathered look, ideal for properties seeking a rustic charm without compromising on durability.
• Designer Metal Fence Panels: These customized panels can mimic various textures and patterns, offering a sophisticated and modern appearance.
• Flat Panel Steel Fencing: This consists of flat panels made of steel, providing a sleek and contemporary look while maintaining privacy and security.
• Ribbed Steel Panels Feature horizontal ribs or grooves, offering a sturdy and secure design suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
• Solid Metal Panel Fencing: Solid metal panels are used to provide complete privacy and security, and they are available in various colors and finishes.
• Laser Cut Steel Fencing: Uses precision-cut metal panels with intricate designs, offering a unique aesthetic and high levels of privacy and security.
• Steel Slatted Fencing: Consists of steel slats, which can be customized for different levels of visibility and provide a modern and sleek look.

Chain Link

Chain link fences have long been a popular and cost-effective fencing solution, but they traditionally lack privacy. However, modern innovations have transformed these utilitarian fences into viable privacy options. Chain link privacy fences combine the affordability and durability of standard chain link with various privacy-enhancing features, making them an attractive choice for both residential and commercial properties.

These adaptations offer increased seclusion without sacrificing the strength and low maintenance benefits of chain link. Here are some popular styles and methods for creating privacy with chain link fences:

• Privacy Slats: Vertical or horizontal plastic or metal slats woven through the chain link mesh.
• Privacy Screens: Weather-resistant fabric or mesh attached to the fence to block visibility.
• Hedge Slats: Artificial greenery panels attached to the fence for a natural, private look.
• Bamboo or Reed Rolls: Natural materials rolled out and secured to the chain link for an eco-friendly privacy solution

Bamboo

Bamboo fencing is a quick and easy way to provide privacy around your outdoor space such as a yard, pool, or hot tub. The fencing is attractive, easy to install, and costs a fraction of other wood privacy fences. Bamboo is a fencing material that also provides its own unique look.

Bamboo privacy fencing comes in rolls or in pre-built panels. The tall bamboo poles are mounted close together which blocks the view of neighbors or passers by. Bamboo fencing looks good and is a sound investment because it provides an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wood fences.

Allowed Privacy Fences in the Columbus Metro Area

You will need to check your local municipal ordinances and any rules your homeowners association may have regarding fence installation.

For instance Columbus allows privacy fences to be six feet tall while Whitehall, Ohio allows seven feet. You will also find restrictions on materials and color choice.

Conclusion

A privacy fence provides you with a private space in your yard and garden. Whether you want to have a light, breezy fence or one that is completely secluded, there are designs out there for what you’re looking for.

Get in touch to see which types of privacy fencing local contractors will recommend for your home.