Is Split Rail Fencing Right for Me?

Split rail fencing has been popular in the U.S.A. since colonial times. It’s a staple feature in the countryside across America. You can increase your home’s curb appeal with this classic fence.

You can easily spot the difference between a split rail fence and a privacy fence. A privacy fence is designed to protect your yard from other’s view. In contrast, a split rail fence creates an attractive visual barrier that marks your property line without cutting off the view. It’s made by leaving large gaps between the rails.

Traditionally, split rail fencing was used by farmers to mark their property line and confine their livestock. They preferred this fencing because it’s less expensive to build, easy to repair, and well-suited for uneven ground. Today, it’s growing in popularity in cities and suburbs too. You can find wrought iron and wooden split fencing in neighborhoods around the country.

 

 

Benefits of a Split Rail Fence

Why should you consider a split rail fence? A wrought iron split rail fence can be an elegant protective barrier. A wooden split rail fence can add rustic charm to your landscaping. These aesthetic benefits aren’t the main reasons homeowners choose this fencing.

These are the top four benefits of split rail fencing:

#1. Low Cost

The greatest benefit of a split rail fence is the low cost. Since split fail fencing requires less material, it’s less expensive to build.

#2. Low Maintenance

If you invest in good material, it will last a long time without the need for repairs. When repairs are necessary, the expense is minimal.

#3. Contours to Land Easily

Split rail fencing is better suited for hilly or uneven ground than a privacy fence. Its unique design allows it to contour to the land easily.

#4. Easy to Install

Due to its minimalistic design, split rail fencing requires less installation time. It’s easy to put up in a day or two.

Drawbacks of a Split Rail Fence

A split rail fence isn’t the best option for all homeowners. You may not be happy with split rail fencing if any one of these drawbacks is a major concern for you.

#1. Less Privacy

Split rail fencing offers little to no additional privacy. If you want a fence that will prevent nosy neighbors from peeking into your yard, a privacy fence would be a better option.

#2. Not Ideal for Small Pets

Small animals can easily slip through the gaps between the rails. If you have a small pet that’s an escape artist or a pet that’s easily agitated by seeing what’s happening outside of your yard, a privacy fence may be a better choice for you.

Attaching a wire mesh to the fencing may solve this problem for you as long as your pet isn’t a good climber or jumper. Black and green mesh are the most popular options.

#3. Doesn’t Fit Your Neighborhood

If you don’t want to make a bold statement with your fencing, you may want to choose a style similar to other homes around yours. If everyone in your neighborhood has a tall privacy fence or picket fence, you may want to select a similar style.

#4. Won’t Complement Your Home

Split rail fencing can look either rustic or Victorian, depending on whether you have a wood or wrought iron fence. This style complements many architectural styles, but can clash with homes with modern architecture.

Is split rail fencing the right choice for your home? The answer depends on what matters to you. If you want to save money on a fence that’s low maintenance and easy to build, split rail fencing is a great choice! If privacy is a big concern for you or you need a fence to keep in a small animal, another type of fence may be a better fit.

We hope that this information helps you pick the best fencing option for your home! If you’d like to get an estimate for a split rail fence or learn more about your fencing options, give us a call!