Disadvantages. However, horizontal fences do have a couple of downsides. They can be more expensive than vertical fences because they require more lumber. Additionally, horizontal fences are more likely to sag over time due to the weight of the pickets pulling down on the posts.
A horizontal fence has the end of each fence board running side to side. The high-quality, durable lumber necessary to keep a horizontal fence from sagging also helps the fence last longer. The stringers at the top and bottom of the panels provide additional support as well.
If one of your goals is to create a private, enclosed yard by adding a fence, a horizontal wood fence can be the way to go. The positioning of the planks horizontally means that there is less likely to be any gaps or spaces between them, creating the best barrier between your yard and the outside world.
Vertical fences are naturally stronger and more durable since the weight and structural integrity is evenly distributed down the entire perimeter. This is because each and every post is either rooted in the ground or comes very close to it.
Wrought Iron Fencing
The wrought iron fence is the strongest and most long-lasting fencing option available. Featuring a classic design with wide spaces that beautifully display landscape and gardens, you won't find more a suitable option for vintage and retro style homes.
Steel. Like aluminum, steel is a resilient material, making it a great option if you're ready to invest in a new fence. Galvanized steel chain-link fencing is especially long-lasting. It holds up well to wind and rain, and small sections can be easily replaced if any damage occurs.
While building a horizontal fence isn't more difficult than building a traditional fence, they do present more structural issues. Wood boards are weaker when running horizontally instead of vertically, making them more susceptible to sagging as gravity pushes down on them.
Because of the warping issue and our freeze-thaw climate, horizontal fencing doesn't generally last long. In fact, this type of fence wears down 4 times as fast as a vertical fence made with the same materials. This means that you'll have to replace it every 3-5 years instead of every 15-20 years.
To prevent the wood from warping or sagging, use a sealant to protect the wood after the fence is installed. Does a horizontal fence need rails? Fence rails span between posts and offer strength to the fence section. They are usually used on the top of the fence and the bottom of the fence.
Hardwoods like Ipe and Mangaris are gorgeous when applied horizontally because the natural grain that runs the length of the planks creates a high-end look. Softwoods like pine, Douglas fir, redwood, and cedar are also great fencing choices.
Gap: Small gaps between horizontal boards are standard for horizontal fences and impact the final appearance of the fence. Generally, we will use gaps between ¼” and 1”. If you want no gaps between boards, we would recommend using a tongue and groove board.
Vinyl fencing: Vinyl fencing can last 30+ years with minimal maintenance required. Unlike wood that can warp, rot, or shrink over time, vinyl is rigid and resilient. It is resistant to pests, rain, snow, temperature changes, and other elements. That is why vinyl fencing is the longest lasting fence material.
Horizontal fences tend to be more expensive than vertical fences because they require a higher grade of lumber for the fence boards to reduce the possibility of sagging. Even so, like any horizontally-oriented board, they may sag over time.
Reduced productivity
In companies where departments' responsibilities are interdependent, horizontal structures may hinder their productivity. While some organizations benefit from reduced managerial levels, others have them so that their areas can specialize and focus on a specific task.
If you're installing the boards horizontal, you'll want to leave 1/4 in -1 inches of space between the boards.
On average, homeowners pay around $5 to $12 per linear foot for a horizontal wood fence for the material. The cost for this fence installed averages $15 to $22 a linear foot.
Important to remember that we used deck boards here, NOT fence boards. The trickiest part with this is making sure that the first board is level, level, LEVEL. Mike started each section at the top; this way he knew that he would have a full board at the height he wanted it to be (6 feet for us).
A horizontal slat fence is a fence that uses horizontal boards or planks that are usually spaced to provide some visibility through the fence. Slatted fences can use wood planks or pickets of the same width or varying widths.
One general rule of thumb is to have a horizontal rail for every 24 inches in height. For a six-foot-high fence, this means three rails. While a middle rail may not be a structural necessity, it will help keep fence boards in place and may limit warping and twisting.
For example, cedar is an excellent hardwood to stand up well to wind. Metal fences are typically built with thick pickets and wide spaces in between. This makes them more effective in standing up to high winds. Steel or aluminum metal fence will allow wind to pass through it.
How long should a fence last? A well-built and maintained fence should last for 15 to 20 years with proper care.
The best way to ensure a fence will withstand strong winds is to reduce wind resistance or wind load by creating space for wind to pass through. If that's not possible, we love the fence stabilizer systems created by Triangle Power Systems to brace common wood stockade privacy fences.