How to Design a Wooden Fence

Wood fence at night.

Wooden fences create good neighbors. This is particularly true if the fence is well designed, attractive and installed properly. By selecting quality lumber and positioning the fence inside the property line, privacy and territory are immediately established. In addition, if the design of the fence is pleasing it becomes a natural backdrop for landscaping. Keeping animals and children safe has a lot to do with the type of design selected. By determining the necessary function first and then considering the aesthetic desires second, it becomes more likely that the resulting fence will be appreciated for many years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Plot plan
• Photocopies
• Red marker
• Measuring tape
• 1/8-inch scale graph paper
• Tracing paper
• Mechanical pencil
• Straight edge
• Clear tape
• Fence restrictions and building codes

Instructions

Designing Wooden Fences

1. Make photocopies of the plot plan. If the plot plan does not include outlines of the existing home and outbuildings, as well as landscape features (such as driveways and pools) then only make one large copy. On this copy measure and mark the main location of all noteworthy elements that will impact the fence design. Make a new master photocopy that includes these details. Try to fit the size of the fenced-in portion of the plot on a single sheet of paper. It may be worthwhile to have a blueprint size copy made if the area is substantial. Make at least 2 or 3 of the large copies.

2. Mark a photocopy using the red marker to indicate city/county/neighborhood easements or restrictions on where wood fencing can be installed. The local city planning office can provide a copy of their codes and easements. Local neighborhoods also may have restrictions and a copy of their guidelines will identify what restrictions apply to the property.

3. Determine the function of the fence. Examples might include: restraining animals, providing an enclosed yard for children, providing privacy from neighbors or providing security of the property. The function of the fence will influence the fence design or type.

4. Identify any style constraints for the fence. Homeowners associations often impose strict fencing types on cohesive neighborhoods. Select a height that meets the guidelines and the functional needs.

5. Mark the photocopy with the location of the fence. Note the location of gates and entry features. Some fence styles use arbor elements at gates near the front of the home. Also, note if pillars or half pillars will be used at front-facing gates. These are often made of brick or stone to match the façade of the home.

6. Design the style of fence to fit the architectural style of the home. A rustic fence can be used with a formal style traditional home if the setting is rural and the land space is large. In small suburban neighborhoods select a formal style for a traditional home and a more casual style for less traditional homes. If the home is modern, the fence should maintain that aesthetic for the best value of the home.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to select a fence design that looks good on both sides. Stockade type fences tend to look ugly on one side and require extensive landscaping to look good. A custom fence will frequently use better grades of wood that will last longer and look better over time. All fences should be maintained well and should be checked at least twice a year for problems.

• Street appearance of wooden fences is important. Spend additional time planning the front appearance of the fence from the street as this becomes part of the home.

References

• Hoover Fence - Calculator