Homeowners are investing in backyard design now more than ever to create a welcome gathering spot that expands their home’s functionality while also improving its appearance. An easy way to upgrade the area is with fencing, which offers plenty of room for personalization. While traditional fencing remains a popular choice, homeowners are opting for these new fencing trends to give their space a sleek, new-and-improved style.
Horizontal Fencing
Horizontal fencing continues to be one of the most sought-after trends with growing popularity in recent years. Redwood, cedar, or hardwood all work well to add a beautiful design element with a minimalistic feel. Rather than traditional vertical fencing, often used for privacy purposes, a horizontal fence allows homeowners to get creative with board spacing and mix-and-matching colors and dimensions to match their home’s style.
Mixed Material Fencing
Mixed material fencing is also a new trend homeowners are leaning towards when upgrading their outdoor space. The ActiveYards® fusion boards create a solid metal framework that homeowners can slip over vinyl or wood boards to create a cool, contemporary look. However, the mixed material trend also works for a classic or craftsman-style home.
Adding a four-foot Silverbell Scallop vinyl frame delivers a white picket fence appeal when used in combination with wood fence posts. Additionally, homeowners with classic wood cedar fences could add Master Halco metal posts, which allows board fencing to last longer than standard wood fence posts. Investing in the quality of materials versus design alone to implement durable, low-maintenance options is also part of today’s top trends.
Vinyl Fencing
An ornamental spin on vinyl fencing is adding solar post caps. Solar post caps softly illuminate the backyard without the need for electrical wiring, adding a complementary way to create an inviting aesthetic.
Also, when upgrading an existing fence, there’s the option to make it taller with decorative screen panels or a traditional redwood lattice. This extends the fencing height and creates a beautiful, modern look to build upon what’s already in place.
Accessories and Staining
A fencing gate adds another distinctive design element and a connector between spaces. J&W Lumber stocks a premade, 42-inch wide, 6-foot tall cedar gate making it easy for homeowners to incorporate it into their fencing projects. For special types of fences, there’s also a growing trend of using cable railing or glass panels to add a decorative touch and preserve a pretty view.
Also, instead of structural additions, simply staining existing fencing automatically gives it a fresh look. Once a fence begins to fade to a grayish hue, an oil-based stain like Penofin® conveniently combines a sealer and stain into one to give life back to the fence. It’s available in Natural Cedar, Transparent Redwood, Mission Brown, and Dark Walnut to match the desired look and feel of the fencing.
Homeowners often give as much consideration to their backyard areas as their indoor living rooms. With all the fencing options available, it’s become easier to transform your outdoor space. Stop by your local J&W Lumber store and speak with one of our specialists about ideas and materials for your fencing project.