Alternatives to a Picket Fence
The classic wood picket fence is an iconic image of the American dream. It adds warmth to a home, boosts curb appeal from a distance and keeps kids, dogs and flowers safe.
However, the maintenance requirements of a wooden fence can be time-consuming and costly. Fortunately, there are many alternatives.
Panels
One of the most popular alternatives to building a picket fence from individual wood boards is to install pre-made panel fences. These are available at many big box stores and can significantly reduce the amount of time and effort it takes to build a fence. However, there are several factors that you should consider before choosing to use pre-made panels for your fence.
When you purchase fence panels from a big box store they are typically designed to maximize profit margins and as such they will contain cheaper materials including thinner rails, weaker pickets, and staples (instead of nails) which will significantly decrease their lifespan compared to a premium wood fence from a local fencing company. Also, when purchasing pre-made fence panels you are limited in your customization options. For example, if you need to account for topographical changes in your yard then the standard height of panels that are sold at the big box stores will not allow for this.
Aside from their monetary benefits, the primary advantage of using panels as an alternative to a picket fence is that they can be installed much faster than building a picket fence with individual boards. This is primarily because you are able to utilize standard pre-made sections of fence instead of having to construct each individual board by hand. This can save you weeks in construction time and still provide the same aesthetic.
Individual Pickets
When people think of fence construction, they typically picture building a picket fence piece by piece. This is an option for those with expert-level carpentry skills and access to high-quality wood, though many choose to save money and time by purchasing pre-made fence panels. Fence manufacturers inspect and finish each panel, ensuring consistency in color and character across the entire fence.
These pre-made fence faces are anchored in posts and run along rails, providing a clean line of separation between properties. They come in a variety of heights, styles and finishes. Some, such as LuxeCore premium composite pickets, provide a classic look with enhanced longevity and reduced maintenance demands.
Fence pickets, also called slats or boards, are available in everything from budget-friendly pressure-treated pine to redwood, and can be stained any color. Other options include cellular PVC, which looks like painted wood from a distance but is durable, easy to maintain and resistant to rot and mold.
A picket fence adds value to your home by boosting curb appeal up close and from a distance, while marking your property boundaries. It can also keep children, pets and stray animals safe while adding privacy and security to your yard and keeping curious passersby or criminal intruders away. Moreover, they are relatively affordable and easy to install, saving you on labor costs compared to other fencing types.
Board and Rail
In addition to offering a rustic aesthetic, fences made from board and rail can offer more privacy than traditional picket fences. Alternating wood slats create a shadow effect, making them solid-looking from one side but transparent from the other. This style is especially useful for vegetable gardens because it allows plenty of sunlight to reach the crops below. It also works well for vines, such as wisteria and honeysuckle, since it’s easy to add lattice to support new growth.
Like picket fences, board and rail fences come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect fit for your home. For example, dog-ear pickets are a great choice for classic homes, while scalloped pickets offer a playful touch to more modern cottage-style houses. Moreover, you can choose from a number of post caps and trims to make your fence more distinctive.
Another type of board and rail fence is the post-and-rail fence, which combines simplicity with strength and durability. It consists of long timber rails suspended from posts, which makes it ideal for farms and large properties that need to contain livestock or establish clear property lines. Additionally, it requires less fencing material than a traditional picket fence, so it’s easier to maintain.
The other major advantage of this type of fence is that it doesn’t require any painting or staining, which saves you time and money. In fact, it’s an excellent option for homeowners who want to avoid maintenance entirely.
Customization
While a picket fence has its share of historical and cultural associations, it also provides homeowners with the opportunity to express their individual aesthetic preferences. From adjusting the height to find the perfect balance between openness and privacy, to choosing a color that complements the architectural aesthetic of your home, to customizing your gates, picket fences offer homeowners the freedom to create a unique design that enhances their property.
A good picket fence contractor should be able to adapt your design ideas to the different materials and heights available, so that you can choose a design that is a perfect fit for your house. The right landscaping can also accentuate the beauty of your picket fence, with options like flowering shrubs and tall plants that provide a natural barrier and help to block the view.
In addition to enhancing the aesthetic of your home, a picket fence can provide security and help to keep children and pets safely within your yard. The height of a picket fence is also an effective deterrent for large stray animals and pets.
If you want to add the classic charm of a white picket fence to your property, contact us today for a free estimate. Our experienced and knowledgeable contractors will work with you to customize your picket fence to suit your taste, while providing a high-quality product that can increase the value of your home.
