Your fence is more than a divider between your property and your neighbor’s. It’s an architectural element that can define how your space looks and feels. But if you have a particularly large—or small—backyard, choosing the right design and materials becomes even more important.
Here are our professional fencing ideas for all backyards, big and small.
Large Backyards
Large outdoor spaces have some special considerations when it comes to fencing. First off: ask yourself, “What is the purpose of my fence?” A fence that exists to delineate property lines will be designed differently than a fence meant to provide privacy. Perimeter fencing is generally more open, which keeps costs down while covering more area. Alternatively, privacy fences are meant to shield the view from neighbors or the street, so they usually require more materials per linear foot.
Once you know the purpose of your fencing, let the creativity begin! Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Non-uniform styles: Maintaining the same fencing style around the entire perimeter of your backyard isn’t necessary. If you’re trying to enclose a large space, the cost of materials and labor can add up quickly. Instead, evaluate each fence section based on the purpose it serves. You may opt for a decorative privacy fence to shield your backyard from the street, then use a ranch-style cedar split rail fence along the back of your property, which will open up your view.
Metal fencing: If privacy isn’t an issue and you like a modern look, install powder-coated steel or aluminum metal fences. Their sturdy vertical bars permit breeze, show off surrounding scenery, and are longer-lasting than lumber.
Mix and match materials: Not every fence must be fully constructed from lumber or metal. Wild Hog metal mesh looks great with wood fence posts and railings. It provides a rustic industrial look that keeps pets contained. As a bonus, climbing plants love mesh, so Wild Hog fencing is also perfect for constructing a “living fence.”
Cost and maintenance considerations: Because you’re covering so much space in a large backyard, you should also consider the cost and time for necessary maintenance. Talk with the specialists at your local lumberyard to discuss material costs and options to determine which designs align with your desired maintenance schedule.
Small Backyards
In small backyards, fences are much closer to your social space, so they usually become a focal point. Here’s how to use a backyard with a reduced footprint to your advantage.
Use higher-grade materials: In small backyards, you can get more bang for your buck. Invest in the highest quality lumber you can afford. Attractive hardwoods like Ipe or MANGARIS™ RED lumber coupled with the right stain like Penofin Architectural Stain make fantastic-looking fences and are suddenly within budget when purchased in small quantities.
Create a feature wall: In keeping with the focal point theme, small backyards provide the opportunity to create a true feature wall. Add a decorative laser-cut screen panel with hidden backlights. Or, attach lattice or Wild Hog fencing to provide support for flowering vines.
Install a horizontal fence: Horizontal fences create an optical illusion that makes any space look bigger, which is perfect if you have a small backyard. Select lumber with an eye-catching wood grain to add even more visual interest.
Go waist-high: Open up your space by installing a half-height gothic picket fence. You may sacrifice a bit of privacy, but you’ll gain a feeling of expansiveness from your newly unobstructed view.
Splurge on elegant hardware and gates: Because you are only enclosing a small area, you may have more room in your budget to invest in higher-end decorative hardware and custom gates. These details often get lost in a larger backyard, but they take center stage in an outdoor area with limited space.
No matter how much ground you need to cover, the right fence can have a huge impact on your space. Use the ideas above to make the most of your yard. With the right fence design and attention to detail, a backyard of any size feels just like home.
Ready to upgrade your fence? Visit your local J&W Lumber location and let’s get started.