Are you interested in a privacy fence but are unsure of where to start? There are quite a few popular style options to choose from. Some customers know the privacy fence they want, but are unsure of what to ask for due to their limited knowledge of the names and terms. Below, you can learn about our most popular privacy fence styles, the names of each, and be ready to make a decision on the style that might work best for you.
Solid Board
Solid board privacy fencing is exactly what it sounds like. It is made up of vertical boards that line up and touch to create a solid surface of boards across the entire fence line. Certain features may be added or changed to create different looks, but the basic idea is the same. There is a chance of slight gapping in solid board fencing over time. As the seasons change and temperatures rise and fall, the boards will shrink and expand, causing minor gapping between the vertical boards. Overall, however, you will have complete privacy with this style option. Solid board fencing is especially popular in Frederick City’s Historic District.
Board on Board
Board on Board fencing provides quite a bit of privacy, but not completely. The boards are nailed on in an offset manner so that if you stand at an angle, you can see through to the other side. Board on Board is also referred to as Shadow-Box or Wyngate style by some. It is a style commonly chosen for townhouse and condominium communities.
Vinyl Tongue and Groove
Vinyl tongue and groove or “T&G” is so named for the way the slats within each panel fit together. Each slat has a side with a “tongue” and one with a “groove.” Once locked in place, the result is a strong, solid, even panel of vinyl fencing that provides you with complete privacy. Vinyl privacy fences are commonly used for townhouses, single family homes, and trash or utility enclosures. Popular T&G fence colors include white, beige, and clay, though it can be obtained in any color from black to green, blue, or red!
Vinyl T&G with Lattice (5’+1’)
This fence style is similar to the Tongue and Groove privacy as it is made up of tongue and groove fencing on the bottom, but with an additional 1’ of lattice on the top. This fence adds up to 6’ tall and provides you with almost complete privacy, except for what little can be seen through the lattice. Lattice comes in different styles and sizes to suite various needs and preferences. 5’+1′ is a popular option for any and all property types.
5’+1′ with Standard Lattice (2″ x 2″ openings)
5’+1′ with Privacy Lattice (1″ x 1″ openings)
5’+1′ with Square lattice (2″ x 2″ square openings)
Horizonal Board Privacy
Horizontal board privacy fencing is just what it sounds like: boards installed close together in a horizontal fashion. Most horizontal board privacy fences are considered semi-private because there is spacing between the boards, such as in the first picture below. However, there is the option to leave no spacing, or to install the boards in a “board and batten” style so that there is a guarantee of complete privacy.
Standard horizontal board privacy fence using 1″x6″ boards
Horizontal board privacy fence with no spacing
Horizontal board privacy fence with alternating 1″x4″ and 1″x6″ boards
Board and batten horizontal board privacy fence
Frequently Asked Questions about Privacy Fencing
What is the standard height for privacy fencing? 6′ tall is considered the standard height for privacy fences by the fencing industry. However, Frederick Fence Company will customize your privacy fence to whatever height you choose, as regulations allow.
What is the tallest my privacy fence can be? The answer to this question varies depending on your location. In Montgomery County, your fence can be a maximum of 6.5′ tall anywhere on your property; front, side or rear yard. Special zoning circumstances must be present in order to go any higher. Most other municipalities within Montgomery County only allow 6′ tall on the sides and rear of any property. The City of Rockville, however, allows fencing up to 8′ tall in rear or side yard spaces. Frederick County does not regulate fencing unless you are within a town or city that enforces its own fencing regulations. 6′ tall is the common maximum height regulation throughout. If you wish to construct a privacy fence that is taller than 6′, we strongly encourage you to reach out to your local AND county governments to check specific regulations for your area and property type.
My neighbor already has a privacy fence, can I share their fence on that side? There is usually ONE fence between each single-family or townhouse property. If your neighbor has an existing fence, we suggest that you try to “tie into” it or connect your new fence to it, leaving just one fence between you and your neighbor(s). Some neighbors, however, are uncomfortable with sharing a fence line. There is a liability factor that can cause an uncomfortable battle between neighbors, especially if the relationship is not friendly already. Sometimes neighbors will split the cost of a shared fence line. We suggest talking to your neighbor to see if you can come up with a plan that works for both of you. If the relationship is not friendly, then we suggest going ahead and installing a new fence next to their existing fence.
How do I get an estimate for a privacy fence? Our experienced sales team is ready to price up your new privacy fence! Call 301-663-4000 to schedule a free estimate appointment.
We look forward to providing you with the perfect privacy fence!
Written by Laura Braden, 5-year Frederick Fence Co. employee
Frederick Fence Company has over 40 years of experience installing fences of all shapes and sizes! We are the fencing contractor you can trust!
