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Decorative Fencing Ideas for a Sloped Lawn

A sloped yard presents a difficult challenge for designing a landscape. Sloping makes it difficult to entertain, landscape and setup a patio or deck. Fencing is another area where uneven terrain causes problems. Whether adding a fence for decoration or for increased privacy, a sloped yard limits the type of fencing available. Careful selection will make for more efficient installation and a better overall final appearance.
  1. Fencing Sloped Yards

    • Prior to selecting any type of fencing, it is essential to know how steep a slope is present. Some slopes will require regarding prior to being fenced, meaning fill dirt is added to even out the area. A grade of more than 4 percent, which represents approximately one foot in height difference, according to ricksfencing.com, usually requires filling. When dealing with such a difference in grade, selecting a vertical style fence is ideal. This design, no matter the specific style or material, is easier to adjust to varying slopes than horizontal style fencing.

    Picket Fence

    • Picket fences are available in wood or vinyl and are well suited for a sloped garden. They generally sit less than four feet in height and, depending on the manufacturer, will provide a few different sizes. This variation is size will help when accommodating for a slope in the yard. The style creates a classic garden look and its low stature leaves views unobstructed. Including an arbor or gate is ideal for adding a bit of visual interest to the yard and complete the garden look.

    Shadowbox Fence

    • Shadowbox fences, also called board on board, are identical on both sides, making them ideal for use in residential areas. The style is primarily ornamental, but its 6-foot height will provide some privacy. These boards are made primarily from cedar or pine, which means they are paintable or stainable to fit just about any home style or yard design. The vertical style of the panels makes them ideal for use in a sloped landscape. If not treated properly with a waterproof sealer, wood panels tend to warp or crack over time.

    Wrought Iron

    • Wrought iron fencing panels are available in a number of styles and colors, making it a suitable choice for most home exteriors. The look lends itself primarily to rustic or Mediterranean style homes, or when combined with stone columns give a more traditional old world feel. Panels come in tall or short panels, and are almost solely decorative. They have additional uses as security gating, as tall panels are difficult to tear down and most styles are tricky to scale. Wrought iron, though more costly than wood products, has a long life span and requires little maintenance. The material is by nature custom made and can be designed to accommodate most graded yards.