Last updated: March 2026
Wood Fence Types & Lumber Guide
Privacy fences use boards placed side by side with no gaps, providing complete visual and physical separation. They are the most popular residential style for backyards. Standard height is 6 feet, using 1x6 boards on three horizontal rails.
Picket fences are the classic American fence — shorter (3–4 feet), with evenly spaced pointed or dog-eared boards. They define property lines and contain pets without blocking views. Typical spacing is 1.5–2.5 inches between pickets.
Board-on-board (shadowbox) alternates boards on both sides of the rails. The result is a fence that looks attractive from both sides, allows some airflow while maintaining privacy, and avoids the "ugly side faces the neighbor" problem. It uses roughly 50% more lumber than a standard privacy fence.
Horizontal fences run boards horizontally for a modern, contemporary look. They are popular in newer construction and use the same amount of lumber as vertical fences but require more careful installation to prevent sagging.
For lumber, pressure-treated pine is the most affordable and widely available. Cedar is naturally rot-resistant with a beautiful grain — it costs 50–80% more than pine but lasts longer and ages gracefully. Redwood is the premium choice with the best natural durability but is expensive and primarily available in the western United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pickets do I need for a 6-foot wood privacy fence?
For a 150-foot privacy fence using standard 5.5-inch (1x6) boards with no gaps, you need about 327 pickets. The formula is: fence length in inches / board width. Add 10% extra for waste and bad cuts.
What is the best wood for a fence?
Cedar is the best all-around choice — naturally rot-resistant, beautiful, and long-lasting (15-25 years). Pressure-treated pine is the most affordable and lasts 10-15 years. Redwood is premium quality but expensive and mostly available in the western US.
How long does a wood fence last?
Pressure-treated pine lasts 10-15 years, cedar 15-25 years, and redwood 20-30 years. Proper maintenance (staining every 2-3 years, replacing damaged boards promptly) can extend lifespan significantly.
Should I use 4x4 or 6x6 fence posts?
Use 4x4 posts for fences up to 6 feet tall. Use 6x6 posts for 8-foot fences, gate posts, corner posts in high-wind areas, and when you want maximum durability. 6x6 posts cost more but provide significantly more strength.
How much does a wood fence cost per foot?
Materials only: pressure-treated pine costs $12-$18 per linear foot for a privacy fence, cedar $18-$30, and redwood $25-$40. Professional installation adds $15-$25 per foot for standard fences.
What is board-on-board fencing?
Board-on-board (also called shadowbox) has alternating boards on both sides of the rails, creating a fence that looks the same from either side. It provides privacy while allowing some airflow. It uses about 50% more boards than a standard privacy fence.
How many rails does a wood fence need?
Use 2 rails for fences under 5 feet, 3 rails for 5-7 foot fences (standard), and 4 rails for 8-foot fences. More rails mean more strength and less board warping.