They say strong fences make good neighbors, and we agree. All the better if that strong fence is also tall and solid to keep your neighbor's gaze off you, your family, and your stuff when you're hanging out in the backyard.
But privacy fences come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, so choosing one can be difficult. Whether the fence is for a pool, a front yard, or a backyard, the sheer number of options for materials and styles can be overwhelming. Here, we go over what you need to know to choose the best fence for privacy.
What is a Privacy Fence?
A privacy fence provides privacy. Of course. That's obvious. But what exactly qualifies as a privacy fence?
Privacy fences are generally 4 to 9 feet tall and have few to no gaps through which anyone can see. Anything shorter or more accessible to a passerby's gaze doesn't afford enough privacy. Other types, such as white picket fences, chain link fences, and wrought iron fences, are typically not considered privacy fences unless you plan to pair them with dense vegetation or shrubbery.
Knowing your privacy needs and personal aesthetic preferences is key to choosing a privacy fence right for you. When you choose the right one, the pros far outweigh the cons.
Best Fence Materials for Privacy
Wood
Wood might require a bit of upkeep over the years, but you have an exciting amount of wood types from which to choose, not to mention the many designs you can create with wood (we explore that below). Some popular wooden fence types cost anywhere between $14 and $31 per foot.
Cedar
Aesthetically pleasing red hue and tight knots
Very common
DIY-friendly installation process
Naturally rot-resistant and insect-resistant; low maintenance
Color naturally fades to gray; apply penetrating sealant annually to maximize color longevity
Can last 15 or more years with proper maintenance
More expensive than pine and less than redwood
Redwood
High-end; expensive
Often used for smaller enclosed spaces like pools
Naturally decay- and insect-resistant
Naturally resistant to shrinking and warping
Pressure-treated Pine
Most affordable option
More susceptible to warping and shrinking over time than alternatives
Not as aesthetically pleasing over time
Typically lasts 15 years or less
Vinyl
Vinyl privacy fences generally cost more than wood, but they're worth it because they're low maintenance and don't require you to paint and stain them repeatedly. Vinyl or PVC privacy fences can last around 30 years when maintained properly. They may not be as sturdy as some masonry and wood options, but they are still secure and give you plenty of privacy.
Vinyl fences cost $17 to $38 per linear foot.
Aluminum
An aluminum privacy fence is an excellent option for privacy and security. Like vinyl and composite, aluminum is low maintenance, and you can purchase wood-like aluminum. They're stronger than most wood and vinyl fences, and you can get them in an enclosure, shadowbox, or board-on-board designs.
Aluminum fences cost $19 to $76 per linear foot.
Composite
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Composite fences usually come in solid pre-made panels, which may require professional installation or take longer to install than vinyl or wooden ones but are often tall and provide excellent privacy. Like aluminum and vinyl, composite fences are virtually maintenance-free since you'll likely never need to paint them.
Composite fences cost $15 to $45 per linear foot.
Bamboo
Like composite fencing, bamboo fences often come in pre-built panels and provide just as much privacy. The tall bamboo poles are tightly fashioned, creating a wall that might not offer as much security as masonry or composite options, but can be just as beautiful. Bamboo is typically much cheaper than most other fencing materials and great for backdoor or pool areas.
Remember that bamboo is organic, like wood, so you must apply a preservative coating to protect it from insects, mold, and rot.
Bamboo costs about $3 to $6 per linear foot.
Masonry
Photo Credit: 27century / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Brick, stone, and concrete fences are arguably the most resilient and secure of privacy fences, although concrete might be challenging to the eyes. They're all more expensive than wood and likely require professional installation to establish a secure foundation.
It's not uncommon for homeowners to mix wood or iron with masonry to create sophisticated designs or save on costs.
Masonry fences typically cost $25 to $35 per linear foot.
Best Fence Designs for Privacy
Stockade
Photo Credit: Pxhere
Stockade privacy fences are arguably the most common style of privacy fence. Simple but effective, you'll instantly recognize their gapless side-by-side boards. They often consist of pointed pickets at the top, which deter intruders from climbing them. Alternatively, they might be capped or topped with a flat rail for a more refined effect.
Shadow Box
With this privacy fence option, boards stand on opposite sides of a rail in alternating positions, creating a shadow box effect. The gaps by the alternating panels on opposite sides of the rail allow viewers to see through the fence at angles but not directly, providing some but not total privacy.
You can purchase wood, composite, vinyl, and aluminum shadow box panels.
Board-on-Board
Photo Credit: Pixnio
Board-on-board is similar in design to shadow box fencing, but the boards overlap, leaving no space for onlookers to see through. Board-on-board typically costs more but is more durable than many other fence styles.
Lock Board
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
As the name suggests, the boards lock together in a tongue-and-groove design that leaves no gaps. While sturdy, like the board-on-board style, the lack of gaps allows no airflow, which buffers you from wind and noise. You'll often see cedar used for lock board-style fences.
Lattice
Arguably the most decorative of fencing styles, you'll quickly recognize the lattice fence's familiar criss-cross pattern. They usually come in pre-built panels, and although their holes do not provide complete privacy, you can allow vines to grow on them to create a natural visual barrier.
As a decorative element, you can also include latticework at the top of another fencing style, like stockade or shadowbox.
Horizontal
Horizontal fencing ensures plenty of privacy while offering a sleek, contemporary effect. It often costs more because the horizontal nature of the fence requires high-quality timber; otherwise, the horizontal pickets will eventually sag.
Pros and Cons of a Privacy Fence
Pros
Privacy from neighbors, passing pedestrians, and drivers
Security of keeping pets and children safely enclosed and trespassers out
Increased property value
Noise reduction
Durability
Cons
Cost
Annual maintenance
Burglaries concealed from view
Complex lawn care around a fence
FAQs About How to Choose the Best Privacy Fence
What are some alternatives to privacy fences?
To create privacy, you can use plants and landscaping like privacy hedges, brushwood fences, and vertical garden fences.
Is it better to have my privacy fence slightly off the ground?
It can be beneficial to help prevent excessive moisture exposure and rot to have your fence at least two inches off the ground. If you have dogs, however, they may be able to dig under a slightly raised fence.
How can I make my privacy fence more secure?
You can take many steps to increase your fence's security, including choosing a tall height, installing security cameras and anti-climbing devices, and adding anti-climbing paint.
Are there any steps I need to take before installing my privacy fence?
Yes, you'll want to make sure to take these three steps.
Check homeowners association regulations to ensure you can build one in your neighborhood.
Check city codes to see if there are any special rules about building fences in your city.
Obtain a permit if necessary.
Can I turn my chain link fence into a privacy fence?
Yes, DIY methods feature slats, fence tape, plants, and more.
Professional Installation
Now that you have an idea of your privacy fence options, you might wonder if you should DIY or hire a pro.
DIY fence installation can be frustrating, and if not done correctly, it will cost you additional money and hassle. Unless you're sure of yourself and have some experience installing fences, you should consider leaning on a fencing professional for assistance.