From 25 to 50 percent of the fence should consist of open space. Fences with 2 to 2 1/2 inches of gap between 8- to 10-inch-wide planks offer better wind protection than solid walls. Shadowbox fences with planks on both sides of the fence, staggered to block the view through gaps, block wind and provide privacy.
Gaps provide space for air to pass through in such a way that your fence will not be absorbing the full impact of the wind's pushing force. At the same time, it also lessens the wind entering your area, protecting your surroundings as well.
To create a uniform gap within proportion, an 18-20mm space is recommended between boards.
Privacy Fence
A solid fence is for complete privacy. For this one, the fence boards can be tight together or spaced ⅜ to ¼ inches apart. This is to allow the wood to expand and contract in wet and dry conditions. The second option, a board-on-board fence, can have 3 ½ inches of gap between the pickets.
A key factor in fence strength is low wind resistance. Fence designs built with gaps allow the wind to pass through. The larger the gaps, the better the airflow. A fence with little to no gaps creates a barrier that wind gusts will batter down.
So, how far apart should fence posts be? The standard spacing for fence posts is 8 to 25 feet apart, depending on the type of fence. A standard wood fence would require posts 8 feet apart, while a high-tensile wire could span 25 feet.
The Standard Rule For Picket Fences
A good rule of thumb is to make your gaps no larger than 4 inches for the sake of children and pet safety, but there's also much more to consider.
If you don't leave enough space in between fence boards, they will eventually warp, damaging the wood and causing the fence to look a bit funny.
Homes with privacy fences, dense landscaping and tall trees covering windows or doors can provide better cover for thieves because passersby or neighbors can't see a thief entering or leaving the home, according to the C O P S report.
As I've mentioned wood wants to be the same as its environment both in moisture content and temperature. This is where we start to see a problem, especially during the summer months and soaring temperatures. The timber starts to exhibit cracks and splits where it further dries out from its original point of FSP.
Between the posts, a fence should be a few inches above the ground. For yards that are relatively flat this isn't much of a problem. For yards with large changes in grade, there are a number of different ways to handle it.
Standard Picket Spacing is approximately 2-1/2".
To get a perfectly square corner, you want to aim for a measurement ratio of 3:4:5. In other words, you want a three-foot length on your straight line, a four-foot length on your perpendicular line, and a five-foot length across. If all three measurements are correct, you'll have a perfectly square corner.
One of the most important reasons your fence posts should be set in concrete is to keep them plumb and level over time. If all supporting the fence post is loose soil or sand, a good storm with heavy rains and strong winds can leave your fence leaning and posts sagging.
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.
Louvered Privacy Vinyl Fencing provides privacy and seclusion while allowing increased airflow to easily pass between the infill boards.
Vinyl is an excellent material for building a privacy fence that can stand up to high winds. Like any privacy fence, a vinyl fence will take the brunt of the wind head-on. But unlike wood, vinyl has some give, and can even warp slightly without breaking.
If privacy is your main goal, you'll want a fence that is at least 6-feet high to prevent nosy neighbors or curious passers-by from peeking in. To be extra safe, choose a 7- or 8-foot high fence. Before you start building, however, double-check that local regulations allow you to build a fence to this height.
For most residential fences 8′ between posts is the maximum. Commercial fences (industrial chain link, for example) typically can handle up to 10′ spacing because of their stronger frames.