15 Backyard Fence Ideas Perfect for Adding Privacy and Style

In the market for some backyard fence ideas? If you're looking to install a fence, it's important to choose the right material, size, and style, of course. Since there are a plethora of fencing materials on the market that range in cost and durability, both of which should be considered when selecting the right option for you.

The backyard fence you choose is responsible for protecting your yard from unwanted guests and giving you the privacy you deserve—but that doesn't mean it can't benefit from a little extra style Here are 15 backyard fence ideas to get you started.

Seclude With Wood

Wooden fences are among the most popular options for home fencing because of their elegant appearance and durability. Since they are made with natural materials and come with a plethora of options (cedar, oak, etc.) their cost will range.

Though wooden fences aren't necessarily the most expensive, their labor requirements and how much material your yard requires can increase the upfront cost. But as shown above, wooden fences are a classic choice that can be adapted in various colors and styles.

Mix and Match Materials

Mixing and matching your yard fence material is not only perfect for privacy, but also for adding visual interest to your space, as seen here. Wooden and brick fences are a chic combination for any yard that elevates the outdoor area with the earthy brown and rust hues featured in both materials.

Tip

It's recommended that brick fences aren't built over 4 feet high unless otherwise completed by a professional, due to their complexity.

Elevate With Stone

Similar to wood, stone is a natural material perfect for a privacy fence since it celebrates its environment while also providing a strong enclosure. If you're looking for a fence material that features extra strength, you'll love the stone option.

These fences (or walls) are able to withstand the toughest forces of nature without leaving behind any damage. Not to mention, you can find stone materials at your nearest home improvement store or out in the open for free.

Make it Lively

If you're looking to put up a privacy fence around your home without seeming too aggressive, you can't go wrong with a hedge. Opting for live plant boundaries is an environmental-friendly option that's easy to maintain and is also affordable.

Fences made from live plants also reduce replacement costs down the road since they are able to last longer than other fence materials such as wood. You'll also appreciate how complementary this fencing style is to your yard.

Tier Your Hedges

Speaking of hedges, adding more visual depth to your backyard space by tiering them not only adds to your home's privacy, but to your home's overall value.

Taller hedges should be completed by a landscape professional for correct placement and installation, whereas smaller hedges can be completed DIY-style to minimize labor costs. Since hedges are thicker than other forms of greenery, you never have to worry about being overheard or seen thanks to their lively privacy barrier.

Opt for Horizontal Slats

Most traditional fences (whether wood or iron) feature vertical slats. Switching things up with a horizontal take (that's also painted) is a chic way to spruce up your landscape design.

While horizontal fences are a sight to behold, they do tend to cost more than their traditional counterparts due to the higher grade of lumber they require. Though they cost more, horizontal fences still pack loads of security and privacy to block you off from neighbors and separate your property.

Create a Jungle

Similar to your hedges, transforming your backyard into one that's reminiscent of the jungle with various types of greenery is a unique way to give yourself some privacy. Plants and greenery range in cost, so you're more able to stick to your budget while creating a barrier around your home that breaks the mold of a uniformed look—what a great way to welcome wildlife into your space.

Welcome Nature

Thinner and smaller than other fencing options, bamboo fencing should be on your list as a must-have for your home's privacy. This alternative to wood or stone still invites natural materials to your home loaded with durability and ease in installation for a simple DIY project. Bamboo fences are more durable than cedar fences and can last up to twice as long.

Build With Bricks

Brick fences are a great option for giving your home privacy in an elegant, durable manner. These fences, when maintained properly, can last over 100 years.

Unlike most fences, brick fencing experiences wear and tear at a much slower rate. Brick fences have more upfront costs than wooden fences, but with proper maintenance and care, cut down on future costs for replacements.

Extend a Concrete Wall

Speaking of higher upfront costs, concrete walls or fences also require higher budgets to start, but are significantly reduced for future uses. These fencing options provide a lot of privacy pros for your home such as sound abatement, full visual privacy, and extra durability.

Since concrete walls are more complex, they should be installed by professionals that will contribute to the higher upfront cost along with your coverage area. On the bright side, these fences are practically maintenance-free.

Materialize Metal

Fencing made with metal materials such as aluminum or steel is made to last and provide exceptional yard privacy, though they are not the cheapest. Metal fences are more expensive yet cheaper than wooden fences, though there is a range of kits that are budget-friendly. Apart from their costs, metal fences are highly durable and can be installed DIY-style.

Industrialize With Iron

Noted as one of the most durable fencing materials, wrought iron makes a great privacy fence perfect for bordering your home. Though most iron fences are see-through, they still block off your yard and send the right message. You never have to worry about your iron fencing succumbing to damage from the strongest of storms, which means your fence is there to stay.

DIY Pallet Wall

Looking for the perfect DIY fence to set up? Look no further than the pallet-style fencing. Not only is this option super affordable, but it's also easy to install and can be completed independently. Pallet fences also come with a variety of stylistic options since they can be painted for personal touch and aesthetics.

Allow for Some Visibility

Putting a small section of iron fencing around the other fencing in your yard is a great way to provide visibility and openness, especially if your home has a great view of natural scenery. Mixing and matching your fencing material is a great way to utilize your budget and landscape design without compromising on durability and purpose.

Save with Vinyl

Vinyl or PVC fencing is one of the cheapest options that doesn't skimp on durability or ease of installation. Since these fences are made with plastic materials, they don't require as much maintenance as other fencing materials and they don't decay over time. Vinyl fences are still eye-pleasing for yards and feature the easiest installation out of all the fencing types, making it a win-win!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest fence to build?

Materials, labor, and coverage area are all factors that contribute to the overall cost of fencing, as well as maintenance and repair costs. One of the cheapest fencing options to build is a chain link fence. Chain link fences are not as expensive as wooden fences and do not require extensive labor for installation, which helps bring down the overall cost.

What is a good neighbor fence design?

A good fence design gives you the privacy you’re seeking without compromising your neighbor’s yard. In a standard good neighbor fence design, the finished side of the fence (the smoothest and best-looking side) sits facing the neighbor’s yard. This means your yard will see the posts and rails from the fence, but it’s considered to be proper fence etiquette to install your fence this way.

What type of fence adds the most value?

If selling your home is a possibility for the future, the type of fence you install is crucial for boosting your home’s value. Stone or wood fences feature the best aesthetics and are both durable enough to last at least 20 years. These materials feature more security and are even more durable, which can be a top selling point that adds more value to your home as well.

What type of fence has the least maintenance?

For privacy and security that doesn’t require a lot of upkeep, opt for vinyl fencing. Vinyl fences are made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a strong, plastic-based material. A major benefit to vinyl fencing is that, unlike wooden fences, it won't splinter or crack. Since the vinyl coating is nonporous, cleaning this fence type is a breeze with a simple hosing down of water if it happens to get dirty.

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