Types of Wooden Fences
There are many styles of wooden fences. In order to distinguish which types of wooden fence should be constructed on your property, you must first determine whether you want a fence for aesthetics or for privacy and security. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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A fence is defined as a free-standing structure that restricts or prohibits movement across a boundary. The recent history of wooden fences dates back to 16th-century England, when feudal lords segmented their farmland in an effort to keep their livestock and land manageable. In later years, wooden fences were used in the American West to distinguish private land boundaries during the time that the Homestead Act was in effect.
Significance
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The significance of different types of wooden fences depends on why you are building the fence. Some fences are built for landscaping design and others are built for privacy and security.
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Types
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Wooden fences that are built for landscaping design are typically split-rail fences and picket fences.
Split-rail fences are primitive and rustic. They are built from long, narrow pieces of rough-cut timber or small logs that have been split in half. The timber is stacked in layers, arranged in a zigzag pattern.
Picket fences are the inspiration of English gardens and are often associated with cottage-style houses. Picket fences are built by driving wooden stakes or "pickets" into the ground. Picket fences are generally not higher than 4 feet tall.
If you want to build a wooden fence for privacy and security, a privacy fence is what you need. Often found surrounding the perimeter of the backyard, privacy fences are constructed out of durable wood, such as pine, cypress, cedar or oak. The wooden boards are fitted together to form a visual barrier between you and your neighbor. Privacy fences can range in height from 5 feet to 7 feet.
Considerations
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Before constructing a wooden fence of any type, consider checking with your city and neighborhood codes. If you live in the city limits, most city codes have specific guidelines regulating how far from the road or property line the fence should be.
Some neighborhood codes prohibit fences being built in the front of the home. Some also may regulate the type of fence that can be built in the backyard.
Warning
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Prior to digging holes for fence posts, call the city and utility companies to inquire about the location of any underground utility lines.
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