Home interior trends are constantly changing, but what about exterior design? Though updates may not occur as often, there are still several ways to improve the curb appeal and overall aesthetic of your home, starting from the outside. One of the most common approaches is by updating fencing styles.
From cedar split rail fence to vinyl fencing, there is a range of variations that remain in demand throughout the years and others that find new life after years on hiatus. Regardless of the style that speaks to you, finding the right fit means taking the trend and making it your own. Here are five fencing trends on the horizon to inspire your next exterior design project as you consider changes for your own backyard.
1. Horizontal Fenced Installation
Though not a new design, there’s been a resurgence of horizontal fencing in recent years. The traditional setup for board fencing is vertical installation to ensure both privacy and design needs. However, there are several opportunities to amp up an outdoor space with horizontal fencing.
When turning the board sideways, it opens up the design to different species of wood, which isn’t as common vertically, where the goal is more about logistics and less about design. This trend also allows room for creativity with symmetry, textures, and combining dark with light fencing shades. Thus, homeowners have begun to experiment with different widths and colors to create a semi-customized look to fit their outdoor space.
A literal shift in direction combined with sleek hardwoods and modern designs make this long-admired fencing trend feel fresh and new again.
2. Cedar Split Rail Fences
When it comes to fencing design trends, hardwoods and redwoods are always on-trend when it comes to the type of wood to work with. However, cedar is the most common, and a cedar split rail fence, in particular, is a preferable option for large properties that need to divide property lines.
Because of the space between boards, it’s not a design known for its privacy appeal, but rather its beautiful, rustic aesthetic. Though often favored in rural areas, where homes have more land between them, this design option is also used for homes that want to add a design element for a backyard garden or other decorative appeal.
3. Staining Upgrades
Rather than investing in a fence build, another fencing trend is staining instead. It immediately adds new life to a fence and can completely change the appearance, depending on the color and sheen of the stain used. When the boards are structurally sound but the design calls for revitalization, staining is an optimal solution.
Messmer’s UV Plus Desk Stain offers a natural wood finish for fencing and other wood projects for the home. It’s available in a range of colors to provide coverage on both rough and smooth wood. Plus, it has a mildew-resistant coating and premium UV resistance, which is ideal for exposure to the Southern California climate.
Another premium staining option is Penofin, which also provides UV resistance to protect against fading, as well as protection against moisture to keep the staining quality intact. It, too, provides an attractive finish to instantly increase the appeal of your home’s exterior.
4. Good Neighbor Fences
A good neighbor fence is a trend people choose so the fence looks good on both sides. There’s a focus on creating a design that’s desirable from all angles. Creating fencing with this trend in mind also ensures compliance with California Civil Code, which outlines how adjoining landowners should benefit from any fence that divides their properties.
5. Metal Fence Posts
Lastly, using metal versus wood fence posts has been a steady trend for the past several years but has recently become more prominent. When improving the exterior of a home, design is always top of mind. However, it’s equally important to choose durable materials that are built to last.
Metal postmaster posts won’t rot out, allowing the fence to remain in quality shape for years to come. Creating this structurally sound foundation doesn’t compromise the actual design, as wood boards can cover the posts and achieve the desired look.
There are always new ways to update a home’s exterior appearance and value. By changing from vertical to horizontal fencing, applying a new stain, or implementing one of these other design trends, tackling home renovations feels more approachable.
For help with your next home fencing project, stop by one of our store locations located throughout Southern California.