What Are the Parts of a Wood Fence Called?
There are many different types of fences on the market. They can be made from a variety of materials, have various designs, and come in a multitude of colors. While all of these things can make a fence unique, they share several common components. Understanding what the parts of a wood fence are called can help you decide which style is right for your home.
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Posts – This component of a fence is usually buried deep in the ground, and is one of the most important parts that keep a fence standing upright. Choosing the right posts for your property can have a significant impact on how sturdy and long-lasting your fence will be.
The type of wood you choose will also have a big impact on how well your fence stands up to the elements. You can find a range of quality wooden fence posts, and you may want to consider purchasing ones with a higher grade than what is typically recommended for fences in your area.
Boards – These are the horizontal pieces of wood that run between fence posts, and make up the majority of a wood fence’s structure. These boards can be thicker or thinner than posts, depending on the fence design, and they may jut out from the bottom of the fence more than posts will. They can be cut to a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can include decorative elements like nails and other hardware.
Backer rails – These are the horizontal slats that connect all of the boards together. They are also a key part of the wood fence’s structure, as they allow it to stay connected horizontally.
Pickets – These are the vertical pieces of wood that run along the fence. They can be a few inches tall and made from a variety of materials, including redwood. They can have a dog ear, flat top, or french gothic look.
Panels – These are another type of wood that you can use to create the surface of a fence. They can be made from a variety of woods and can also have a variety of styles, such as privacy panels.
Trim boards – These are additional pieces of wood that can be installed between fence panels to give them a more finished appearance. They can be painted or stained to match the fence, and they are an ideal way to add texture and dimension to a fence.
Kickboard – These are 2×6 or 2×8 pieces of wood that are placed along the base of the fence to protect the pickets from mud and rainwater. They can also give a more finished appearance to the base of a fence.
Cap board – This is another optional addition that you can install on your fence for a more finished appearance. It is a 2×6 or 2×8 slab of wood that runs along the top of your pickets and posts.
All of these options can be added to a fence for an extra layer of protection or aesthetic appeal. They aren’t always the right choice for every fence, but they can be a nice addition to your yard.
