Fencing In Charlotte are a great option for homeowners looking to add country charm. They’re typically made from easy-to-split wood, such as cedar (which is rot-resistant) or pine.
The large gaps throughout the fence make it a good choice for keeping livestock in place and marking property boundaries. These fences also discourage trespassing and give neighbors a clear view of who is on their land.
- Rustic Charm
Split rail fences are popular for homeowners and business owners who want to add a rustic charm to their property. This traditional fencing style uses split logs and rough-cut timber for construction, and it’s known for its natural appearance that blends well with the surrounding landscape.
Homeowners can purchase split rail fence materials at local home improvement stores, online retailers, and specialty fencing suppliers. However, working with a reputable and experienced local contractor is a better option because these professionals can provide a consultation to assess the project and recommend the best materials for the job. They also have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle the installation process from start to finish.
In the past, the wood-split rail fences were often constructed by farmers and ranchers using whatever species of lumber grew locally on their land. Today, however, these fences are commonly made from cedar, which is both easy to work with and rot-resistant. They’re still a common choice for farmers and ranchers who want to define property lines, mark boundaries, or keep livestock contained. Still, they’re also used in suburban settings to accentuate garden areas and help create a comfortable outdoor space perfect for entertaining guests.
One of the biggest reasons split rail fences are so popular is that they add character and nostalgia to any landscape. This is particularly true if you use reclaimed wood for your fence. As the fence ages, it develops a unique, weathered appearance that adds to its appeal. In addition, this type of wood is typically stronger and more durable than fresh, treated wood, making it a good choice for fences exposed to harsh elements.
Another reason many people like to use split rail fences is that they’re an economical option for fencing their properties. Compared to other fence styles, this type of fencing is less expensive because it requires minimal materials to build. Additionally, the lack of vertical slats helps to keep the price down by eliminating the need for post caps and other hardware.
- Low Maintenance
Split rail fencing is a clean, classic choice for the yard and home. Whether you want to keep farm animals or mark your property boundaries, this versatile fence design is affordable and simple to construct. It’s a popular and reliable option that works well for large ranches and farms and also looks great for surrounding homes in suburban areas.
The wood it’s made from is the key to the longevity of a split rail fence. While pine, spruce, and hemlock can all be used for this style of fence, cedar is the most preferred because it’s durable, resistant to bugs, and will weather to a beautiful gray over time. This means that you can expect to enjoy your split rail fence for a long time before you’ll need to repair or replace any components.
Another aspect of a split rail fence that contributes to its longevity is the way it’s constructed. Because the individual logs are not attached using hardware, this type of fence is self-supporting and easy to build without extensive carpentry skills. The unique rails fit into pre-cut holes or notches in the posts, creating a sturdy and stable fence structure. This also makes it a simple task to install and modify as your needs change over time.
In addition to the longevity of split rail fences, these designs are safe for livestock and humans. This is because the rails and posts are typically smooth, not sharp, so tripping hazards are less of an issue. Also, livestock and pets cannot squeeze through the large gaps in a 2-rail split rail fence, so they won’t be able to escape your property or wander onto neighbors’ land.
A split rail fence may not be the most effective barrier for preventing trespassers from entering your property. Still, it does an adequate job of defining your borders and keeping farm animals contained. If you’re concerned about someone or something trying to make their way across your property line, consider upgrading the bottom rail of the fence with chicken wire. This will allow smaller critters to get through but will still look nice and complement the rest of the split rail fencing.
- Aesthetics
Split rail fences are a beautiful addition to any yard, garden, or farm. They add a sense of history and tradition to your home and landscape. Their rustic look is reminiscent of large ranches and horse farms, and many homeowners love how this traditional fencing complements their gardens. The beauty of this type of fence is that it can be customized in many ways to suit your style preferences. For instance, you can add weather-resistant art pieces to your garden fence to make it more eye-catching and interesting.
In addition to adding an aesthetic appeal, a split rail fence is an effective boundary marker for your property. This fence style is a classic way to define the borders of your property, which can help prevent trespassing and other issues. It also provides a clear indication of where livestock is confined, which can help to keep them from wandering off and getting lost.
Since a split rail fence is so versatile, it is an excellent choice for all landscapes and environments. You can choose a type of wood that matches your existing landscaping and color palette, or you can opt for a more durable material like cedar. Cedar is the most popular choice for homeowners because it is water-resistant and resistant to bugs, allowing it to last for decades without significant damage or maintenance.
Split fences require less material than other fencing types, making them relatively quick and easy to install. They are also one of the most affordable fence options on the market. This makes them a great option for homeowners who want to save money on their fence costs but still desire high-quality material.
Moreover, split fences are often made from reclaimed wood, which is more environmentally friendly than new materials. They do not require chemicals or preservatives and will naturally weather into a beautiful shade of silver/grey over time. As a result, they require little to no maintenance beyond replacing a few posts and rails from time to time.
- Security
Split rail fencing adds a rustic charm many homeowners love to have on their property. This traditional style is perfect for rural areas and can help add country charm to suburban homes. Despite being a simple option, this type of fence is also very affordable.
A split rail fence offers several security benefits as well. First and foremost, it helps to mark property lines. The large gaps throughout the divided rail fence make it easy to see where your property begins and ends. This is especially important for farms as it helps to keep livestock from wandering off your property and can prevent accidental trespassing.
Secondly, split rail fencing effectively keeps small animals out of your yard. While these fences won’t keep out larger livestock, they will work well to deter smaller animals such as rabbits and chipmunks. If you’re worried about your animals escaping through the large holes in the split rail fence, adding chicken wire to the bottom of your fence is easy. This will help to keep these critters out while not interfering with the beauty of your split rail fence.
Another benefit of a split rail fence is that it will not block your view from your home or yard. This is particularly helpful if you live on a scenic mountain or hillside, as it lets you enjoy the view from your backyard without worrying about neighbors and passersby peeking into your outdoor space.
Ultimately, the pros and cons of a split rail fence come down to your personal preferences and needs. If you have children, split rail fences are an excellent choice for your property as they’re safe and can be easily modified to include gates. They can also be topped with welded wire mesh to help keep animals out while providing a more secure barrier. However, if you’re concerned about a lack of privacy, there are better options than split rail fencing for your home. Instead, consider a privacy fence or adding some landscaping features to your property to help keep others out of your backyard.