Is a Horizontal Fence for You?
We’re all familiar with the traditional fence – vertical pickets or planks attached to horizontal supports. But horizontal fence, sometimes referred to as lateral fence, is a show-stopper design that’s gaining traction across the country. Google “horizontal fence” or “lateral fence” and check out the images. You’ll see why horizontal fence design is so popular.
You’ve heard the phrase all things old become new again? It’s kind of that way with horizontal fence. Using a horizontal orientation in a fence dates back to prairie days and split rail fences, or the classic horse farm fence.
But today’s horizontal fence is most often a privacy fence, with the tiniest of gaps between planks. It can also be a board-on-board style, where there are no gaps at all. Both sides of the fence are visually appealing
Is Horizontal Fencing More Expensive?
Bottom line: it can be. A horizontal fence has fence posts that must be placed closer together than a vertical fence, in order to prevent sagging of the fence boards. On the other hand, where a vertical fence requires horizontal stringers, a horizontal fence does not.
Horizontal fencing can also be more expensive than a vertical counterpart, especially if it is a wood fence. That’s because it requires a higher grade of lumber to prevent sagging and warping. The horizontal orientation really isn’t a factor when it comes to vinyl or Trex® horizontal fence panels.
But a professionally installed horizontal fence will last for many years to come, with proper care and maintenance. It will add to the curb appeal of your home, and can increase the resale value should you decide to move in the future.
How Do You Build a Horizontal Fence?
Of course, the first step in any fence installation is the fence design and purchase of materials (after extensive measuring and calculations!) Once we have all of the materials, the actual installation begins.
We mentioned this briefly above. As with all fence installation, we start with digging post holes and the placement of the fence posts. For a horizontal wood fence, the posts are spaced more closely – usually about every 6 feet. We will need to wait a certain period of time (usually 48 hours) after setting the fence posts before moving on to the next step. It’s important that the posts set firmly in the concrete.
If we are using individual planks, we will saw them to the appropriate length. If we are using fence panels, installation will go more quickly. In both cases, we attach the horizontal boards or panels to the fence posts. Then we repeat the process for each section of fence. If it is part of your design, we will also add post caps to help protect the top of the post. This is especially important for wood fence posts.
Lastly, we will hang the gate (or gates).
What Materials Do You Use?
A horizontal fence like we’re talking about is a privacy fence. That means no steel ornamental fence materials, or chain link. We can use cedar, vinyl, or Trex® fencing, specifically, Trex® Horizons. In many cases, we use pre-assembled horizontal fence panels, but we can also create a custom design by attaching pickets/plans to the fence posts individually.
We can align planks for a sleek and modern look, as well as stagger them or use different plank lengths to create a contemporary look. Another way to customize your horizontal fence installation is by using fence posts of a different color than the fence panels. Nothing too crazy, but a darker brown for the fence posts next to a lighter-colored fence panel offers an interesting visual contrast.
RELATED READING
Get a FREE Fence Installation Quote
If you’re thinking about getting a fence installed, whether traditional vertical planks/pickets, or horizontal fencing, we can help. With more than 40 years of experience in all aspects of fence installation, we can tackle any job, no matter how big or small.
Just fill out the contact form or call (720) 418-8194 to get started. We serve homeowners and commercial clients throughout the Denver metro area, including Arvada, Golden, Lakewood, Littleton, and Wheat Ridge.