Timber Fence Types

Split Rail

• Split rail is the basic timber fence -- long logs split lengthwise and stacked in a zigzag pattern. Split-rail fences usually are two to four rails high but can be taller; they rarely exceed six or eight rails, or about 4 feet high. A variation on the split rail uses two posts set in the ground with rails stacked between; these can sometimes be 6 or 8 feet high and afford more privacy.

Post and Rail

• A post-and-rail fence resembles a split-rail fence, but the vertical posts are set at specific intervals -- usually 6 to 8 feet -- and rails are inserted between the posts. Rails have tapered ends with a round point that fits into holes drilled in the posts. This style is common in horse country -- some call it "horse fence" -- and may be 5 or 6 feet high; common versions are shorter, usually only two or three rails high. Rails are usually spaced 18 to 24 inches apart. It affords little privacy, but it marks boundaries and will contain some large animals.

Stockade Fence

• Stockade fencing is a traditional timber style that dates to Colonial and pioneer days. The original stockades were made of small tree trunks, sunk vertically into the ground and set close together. Modern stockade fences usually are made in panels, with horizontal boards that hold vertical stockade pickets. These usually are half-posts, with a smooth side that fastens to the horizontal boards and a natural surface for the fence face. These stockade panels are mounted on posts set in the ground. Stockades are privacy fences.

Other Variations

• Bamboo and similar materials can be woven into heavy mats that are fastened to posts and horizontal rails. Some timber fencing is just rough-sawn boards, usually cedar or similar wood, nailed to posts and rails. This differs from regular wood fencing because the boards are not planed or smoothed but are left with rough edges and surfaces, for a more natural look. These types, generally used as privacy fences to enclose a yard or other space, are usually 6 to 8 feet high.