Fences, believe it or not, date back to prehistoric times. But, before we delve into the history of wood fences, we must first define what they are. A fence is a type of barrier that can be used to enclose an area in order to limit access or control escape. Fences are see-through, which distinguishes them from ordinary walls. The term “fence” is thought to have originated in the XIV century from the word “fens,” which is a short term for protection or defense.

It is difficult to pinpoint who invented the fence, but it is believed that fences have existed since the dawn of human civilization. One of the most significant milestones of the time was the concept of keeping certain things out while allowing what is inside to flourish. From the early fifth century A.D. to 1066, the Anglo-Saxons encouraged the growth of hedges as fences; these types of fences were important for their ecosystems. The Ancient Greeks and Romans also built fences around conquered lands in foreign lands to mark their conquest as their own. Numa, the second king of Rome (reigning from 715 B.C. to 673 B.C.), ordered that all landowners mark their land with stones.

Early American settlers moved to the South and West in the mid-1800s in search of new farmland. Unlike in the Northeast, where wood was abundant, farmers in the Southern and Western parts of the world sought better alternatives. The DeKalb County Fair in Illinois was the first to use barbed wire fencing in 1873. Fencing was invented by a farmer and quickly became common in many parts of the world.

Fencing is important in today’s world because it not only defines and defends a family’s territory but also serves an aesthetic purpose. Although there are many different types of fences, this article focuses solely on wood fences. If you want to put up a wood fence around your property but aren’t sure which one is best, read this post for some helpful advice.

1. Picket

This fence style is highly popular in the United States, where it has been used since the country’s early colonial days. Pickets were historically sharpened logs used by early colonists to defend their positions. A picket fence represents “Americana,” the iconic status of the ideal middle-class life. A white picket fence conjures up images of a nice suburban home with children and the family pet running around in the yard. It also refers to the quiet, peaceful lifestyle of a middle-class neighborhood.

Picket fences, on the other hand, are now used as an ornamental way to keep pets and children in the house. In the front or back yard, traditional homeowners use wooden or whitewashed picket fences. Many modern homes also have PVC picket fences, which are lightweight but strong.

Up until the 1980s, picket fences encircled cricket pitches, giving rise to the phrase “rattling the pickets,” which refers to striking a ball forcefully against the barrier.

2. Lattice

Wooden lattice fences are a popular choice for adding privacy and beauty to any home. Have you ever wanted to see what a lattice fence looks like? A lattice is made up of thin diagonal slats arranged in a crisscross pattern. The crisscross pattern creates square-like holes that provide an excellent view of the barrier.

Lattice fences are available in three common styles: crosshatch, horizontal, and arch. Lattice fences are typically made of redwood or cedarwood. The best part is that you can paint this type of fence any color you want. White or red fences are typically preferred by modern homeowners.

3. Vertical Board

The boards that make up this particular type of fencing are positioned next to one another, but since all lumber shrinks with time, some space will eventually open up between the vertical boards, making the fence section almost private. A vertical board fence will not only increase the value of your house but will also give your family a secure, private space to enjoy.

Stick-built vertical board fencing is a sturdy fence solution that works well for sloping terrain. Add a cap board, lattice top, arch, or dip to improve the aesthetic. To further improve the appearance of your fence, a range of fence post and cap alternatives are also available.

4. Post and Rail

Rail fences, which are frequently used on ranches, rails, and posts, are great for expansive yards. The best feature of these conventional fences is their availability in a wide selection of designs, widths, and heights, all at competitive prices.

Although wood is the material of choice for ranch fences, vinyl is also a prevalent option that one might consider. Rail fences demand ongoing upkeep, whether they are made of wood or vinyl. Even if you’ve painted your wooden rail fence before, you’ll need to keep doing so in order to prevent rotting and moisture damage. The part of the post’s bottom that is embedded in the ground cannot be painted. It might deteriorate eventually and need to be replaced.

Remember that no fence type is ever going to survive forever. All of them have a finite life period. The timber in a wooden rail fence will most likely only last 10 to 15 years. This is only done once the fence has been fixed completely and no more repairs are possible.

5. Louver

For several reasons, louvered designs are entertaining options. They are uncommon and will give your yard some character. Additionally, they enable more air to move through than a solid fence, which prevents your yard’s atmosphere from becoming stuffy. But arguably the most frequent justification is similar to that of louvered window coverings: seclusion. Louvered fences give you some privacy without completely obstructing your view by allowing you to see out in one direction while obstructing sight in another.

6. Wood-Framed Chain-link

Consider using chain link fences with timber frames to completely enclose your property (temporarily or permanently). These chain link fences are regarded as the most dependable fencing solutions available because of their sturdy and long-lasting barbed wire. These chain-link fences around your property make it almost impossible for anyone to enter.

Additionally, chain link fences are easy and fast to install. They routinely endure snow, rain, and sleet. Given that they are enclosed by wooden frames, these fences appear to be attractive.

Wood is frequently preferred over vinyl and aluminum fencing due to its aesthetic value. This article has shown that not all types of wood are created equal. The best method to choose a wood fence is to take into account the various qualities of various wood varieties. Once you’ve done that, you may choose the option that best fits your needs and price range.

Whatever style you choose, we have you covered. Additionally, now that you have chosen your style, you may want to check out different types of wood to find out which one is best for you.