Are you on the fence about what to do with your backyard landscaping? Maybe it's time to get off the fence and start building one.
There are several reasons to install backyard fencing: privacy, security, and pet safety, to name a few. The right fence can even make your backyard's landscape look better. If you're new to the world of fence design, we've got you covered with these 13 backyard fencing ideas.
Note: All prices listed here are approximate, as the true cost of your fence depends on several variables, including what specific fencing material you choose, where you live, and whether or not you hire a contractor. These estimates are intended to help you compare the cost of different fence types.
13 fencing ideas for your backyard
1. Wooden fence
Wooden privacy fences are one of the most popular choices for backyards because they're relatively inexpensive and come in many different styles. Board-on-board, stockade, and dog-ear are all styles that will keep prying eyes out of your business. For a more modern fence, you could install one with horizontal slats.
A wooden fence's cost varies depending on the style and type of wood you choose.
Cost of material: $10-$20 per linear foot.
Necessary maintenance: Paint or stain every two to three years to prevent rotting.
2. Pallet fence
If you want the look of a wooden fence but don't have the budget, consider building your DIY pallet fence. You can get used pallets for free at some construction sites, hardware stores, nurseries, grocery stores, and other locations.
If you build and maintain them properly, pallet fences can be surprisingly durable and long-lasting.
Cost of material: Free (if you know where to look).
Necessary maintenance: Apply fresh sealant every few years to fend off rot and pests.
3. Decorative fence tops
For a privacy fence with a little extra flair, add decorative fence tops. They're available for various fences, including wood, vinyl, and composite. Fence tops come in various designs, from the classic lattice pictured above to custom-carved images.
Cost of material: Varies depending on material and design.
Necessary maintenance: It also depends on the material.
4. Composite material fence
Composite fencing materials like the ones pictured above might look like wood, but they're much more durable, low-maintenance, and expensive. They're made of recycled plastic, wood pieces, and resin.
Composite fences come in various styles and colors, including faux wood and stone. These solid fences provide privacy and security you can count on for years.
Cost of materials: $15-$45 per linear foot.
Necessary maintenance: Occasional washing if you notice dirt buildup.
5. PVC vinyl fence
Like wood fences, PVC vinyl fences come in several styles and colors. Unlike wood, though, vinyl isn't subject to damage from water, rot, or pests. Because it's more durable, vinyl fencing is also more expensive. Most vinyl fences are solid, like the one pictured, and used for privacy.
Cost of material: $20-$25 per linear foot.
Necessary maintenance: Occasional washing at your discretion.
6. Chain-link fence
A chain-link fence might not look like much, but this option is versatile, durable, and, most importantly, affordable. Chain-link makes a great fence for dogs and other pets, and you can attach privacy slats if you want to keep your backyard invisible to the outside world.
If you're worried about the chain link's plain look, try threading vines or other vegetation through your fence panels.
Pricing varies since chain-link fences come in many different heights and gauges, but your basic residential chain-link can be as inexpensive as $5 per foot.
Cost of material: $5-$40 per linear foot (upper range is for tall, thick-gauge chain-link used for security).
Necessary maintenance: Apply for rust protection yearly.
7. Hog wire fence
Hog wire fencing won't do much in privacy, but it's one of the most inexpensive backyard fences and gets the job done. If you need dog or garden fencing but are on a tight budget, hog wire is a great choice.
Cost of material: $3-$5 per linear foot.
Necessary maintenance: Repairs if damaged.
8. Aluminium/wrought iron fence
An ornamental aluminium or wrought iron fence can keep your backyard secure without making it feel blocked in. This fence's spaced-out pickets let breezes and sunlight through while keeping your swimming pool, pets, or small children safe.
Because aluminium/wrought iron fences come in any color or design you could want, they can fit in with any backyard's aesthetic. Their durability is a bonus.
Cost of material: $20-$35 per linear foot.
Necessary maintenance: If you notice, sand off rust, and apply a fresh coat of primer every five years.
9. Corrugated metal fence
Corrugated metal is more affordable than most types of wood and requires much less maintenance. Plus, a corrugated metal fence is an easy DIY project.
Since corrugated metal panels are solid and can be as tall as 8 feet, they make great privacy fences. You have many different style options depending on what look you want to achieve. You can install the corrugated metal panels independently, include wood framing (as pictured), or attach the metal sheets to stone or brick fence posts.
Cost of material: $10 or less per panel (panels range from 4 to 8 feet long).
Necessary maintenance: Occasional washing.
10. Stone or brick fence
Using a solid brick or stone wall as a backyard privacy fence isn't a wallet-friendly option, but it could be worth it if you've got the budget. If installed and cared for properly, stone or brick is extremely durable and will remain standing far into the future.
Cost of material: $10-$80 per square foot (cost depends on specific material and fence thickness).
Necessary maintenance: Scrub to remove grime and stains as needed.
11. Vertical garden fence
If you have a small backyard with no room for the garden of your dreams, a vertical garden fence might be for you. For this fence design, you hang flowers, vegetables, or other plants in containers from your fence. Even if you have a big backyard, a vertical garden is an easy way to add greenery and pops of color.
Cost of material: This varies depending on the plants you choose.
Necessary maintenance: Plant care.
12. Shrubbery or trees
Instead of a traditional fence made of wood, metal, or the other fencing materials listed here, you'd like a living, breathing backyard privacy hedge.
Many species of shrubs and trees grow in clumps and can be used for privacy. Popular choices include boxwood shrubs, juniper, laurel, cypress, and bamboo fences.
Cost of material: Depends on plant species, check your local nursery for pricing details.
Necessary maintenance: Plant care, regular pruning.
13. Trellis with vines
Weaving vines through a trellis is an aesthetically pleasing design idea and an affordable alternative to traditional privacy fencing. Depending on your specific needs, you could line your backyard or use a single trellis as a privacy screen for an outdoor living space or swimming pool.
Cost of material: Check local nursery for prices of vines; trellis cost depends on materials and whether you DIY or buy one.
Necessary Maintenance: Plant care.
FAQ about backyard fencing
Do I need a permit to build a fence around my backyard?
That depends on where you live. Always check local zoning laws before constructing a fence (or any landscape project). You might also need its approval if your neighborhood has a homeowners association.
If you hire a contractor to build your fence, they'll typically know the local laws and acquire any necessary permits. All you'll have to do is sign the paperwork.
Can you finance a backyard fence?
Many contractors offer financing options for fencing projects.
When to Call a Landscaping Professional
If you're taking up a new fence, you probably want it to last long. You might want to let a fencing professional install your fence if you don't have much experience working on construction projects.
Unless you choose one of the easier DIY projects (a pallet fence, corrugated metal fence, or hog wire fence, for example), properly installing a fence can get complicated. The job gets even harder if your backyard is sloped or uneven.
Adding a backyard fence to your outdoor space is one of the easiest ways to increase your home's curb appeal and security. Whether you choose classic wood fencing or something more eccentric like a privacy hedge, your backyard will be better for it.
We hope these 13 backyard fence ideas helped spark your creativity for your landscape.