Check out these gorgeous fencing ideas and styles for your front yard and backyard. Learn what type of fencing you need and how to make your fence stand out!
Are you looking for backyard or front yard fence design ideas? It’s a big decision as there are many different types of fences for yards, fence styles, and fencing designs to choose from. Believe it or not, the fencing options you choose to go with can affect the resale value and overall curb appeal of your home for years.
Fencing solves multiple problems you may be dealing with as a homeowner. A reliable fence will not only layout a perimeter for your property, but will also add security and privacy your home may be lacking.
There are many different types of front yard fence ideas and backyard fence ideas to consider. Most neighbors choose to build a simple wood and metal fence, but as you will see, we cover all types of fencing materials.
In our gallery below, we are showcasing a wide array of fencing designs. From the very elaborate all the way down to simple and easy fence ideas. Either way, we hope our guide helps you make your final decision on what fencing supplies you should use for your project.
Different Types of Fences (Fence Options)
In this section, we will cover many common fence designs and types of fences for your backyard fence, front yard fence, or the entire perimeter of your property. These fence options include privacy fence design ideas for the backyard, front yard, and patio.
Wood Fence Designs
Wood fence design includes many types of wood fence styles. Because wood has been the standard-bearer of beautiful fences for many years it is without a doubt the most used choice in all types of fencing.
Picket Fence
Picket fence designs are typically made from cedar pickets. As you will see from these pictures of fences, picket fences may include a combination of an arbor and latticework.
White picket fence around the home with an arbor over the entryway gate.
White picket fences look beautiful surrounded by greenery and flowers.
New picket fence styles include 4×4 posts with end caps. Options include wood or vinyl for the material.
View More Picket Fence Designs Here
A view from inside a white picket fence on a beautiful suburban street. While most white picket fences are made of wood, some homeowners are using vinyl pickets as it makes a wonderful and durable fencing option.
Cedar Fence
The most common of all wood fence types is cedar. You will find this wooden fencing material in suburban neighborhoods and fences for yards all over the country. This wood is lightweight, durable, and easy to stain for a classic fence option. Cedar is available to purchase in individual boards or as panels from local mills or home goods stores. are made of wood a typical in
Cedar fence panels with a 4×4 cedar fence post and caps.
View Our Article On Privacy Fence Ideas Here.
We love beautiful cedar fence designs. This one mixed with panels and latticework is subtle yet will dress up any home.
TIP: Most people don’t know you can simply pressure wash wooden fence posts and boards to get them looking new again. This project can be time-consuming but save thousands over replacing the entire fence.
Modern Wooden Fence
Small wood planks fixed horizontally and painted dark are a great example of designer fences.
Shadow Box Fence
Shadowbox fence designs create a unique look by using shadows to create more depth when viewing. Seen here mixed with stone and a top rail cap, this fence style works great for yards both big and small.
Board on Board Fence
Board on-board fences are beautiful while providing enhanced privacy because there are no gaps between the boards.
Lattice Fence Designs
White lattice fence panels with pink flowers grow through to create a beautiful and dreamy wall.
An old rustic lattice fence and gate provide a simple way to establish a perimeter.
The lattice can be used to complete the top or in this case the bottom of any fence.
Adding lattice to the sidewall of an archway or gate design can easily complete your desired look and give room for ivy or flowers to grow.
Stockade Fence
A stockade fence design is historically characterized by its use in military compounds or by farmers to confine livestock. The boards are flat or round and typically have a pointed tip to discourage unwanted visitors. You can still purchase this type of fencing in boards or panels from major home goods stores. For more on the cost of stockade fences, use this stockade fence calculator.
A clean and neatly put-together stockade fence that is still visually appealing.
Here you see a more common look to the stockade fence where not all boards are uniform.
A rustic stockade fence is used in a farm setting.
Bamboo Fencing
A bamboo fence is a great alternative fencing type. Bamboo fencing has been used throughout the world because it is cheap and readily available in cities and villages close to rivers and other water sources. The look and design of a bamboo fence can vary greatly depending on the shape, color, and size of the bamboo reeds.
The mix of milled wood for enhanced structure compliments this unique bamboo fence.
A traditional bamboo fence design looks stunning with flowers and greenery enhancing this beautiful walkway.
Bamboo fence roll is a quick and easy option for anyone to help create privacy.
Split Rail Fencing
A split rail fence gets its name from the action of the splitting of timber logs to create long usable rails. Common where there are vast amounts of timber to use, split rail fencing can be placed together without the use of any tools or nails.
Many split rail fences are older and more common in historically older properties.
These fences are very common to see along with old barns to help contain livestock.
Split rail fences are not always pretty, but do help establish property lines and keep unwanted visitors away.
Post and Rail Fence
Post and rail designs are common on farms and larger properties where cost and time will be a factor in choosing fencing material. Most commonly seen in white, but other colors are used to paint these types of fences.
A benefit of a post and rail fence is the ability to create one without much concern for level ground.
Classic white post and rail fence design where the rails are inserted into the posts.
Metal Fences
A metal fence is a wonderful choice if you are looking for a high-end fencing solution. Steel fences are by far the strongest of all the fence options. It is our number one option if you’re looking for security and protection. Aluminum fencing tends to hold up to the weather better. Each type of metal has its own set of pros and cons. For example, steel can start to rust in damp climates while aluminum may bend or break if hit hard enough. View our fencing pictures below. If you looking for a reliable fence this may be your best option.
Wrought Iron Fencing
Wrought iron fence panels make an elegant addition to any home. Take this look up a notch and mix it with your favorite brick or stone columns.
Check Out More Brick Fencing Ideas Here
This wrought iron gate adds a sophisticated entry point for a car or pedestrian.
Steel Fence
Steal fence posts support this modern metal fence.
Iron Fence
Solid iron fencing makes for the ultimate in privacy and security. Metal fence panels like these can be purchased or fabricated to size by fencing companies.
Aluminum Fencing
Black aluminum fences are made from square tubes like the fence picture above.
Security Fence and Gates Examples
A security fence provides the ultimate in privacy and safety.
Wire Fencing
Barbwire fencing is a staple at many ranches and farms. It is a cheap and effective way to keep animals contained and potential threats away.
Wire fence panels like these can be purchased and installed quickly and effectively around any property.
Chain Link Fencing
Many homeowners choose chain link fencing over other types of fencing because of its durability and relatively low cost, and longevity over time. While it is easy to argue many other fences are more attractive, it is hard to argue that a chain link fence does not do its job, by providing security and a barrier around the perimeter of your home.
While not the most appealing fence choice this chain link fence gets the job done and provides cheap yard fencing.
A chain link gate can come in many shapes and sizes. Fence gates can come in two larger chain link fence panels that open wide enough for a car or what you see here for an entryway to a residence.
A black chain link fence is a cheap way to make this industrial fencing look more appealing and is a nice upgrade from a standard chainlink fence.
Chain Link Fence Slats
Chain link fence parts, like the slats, can be added as a part of your chain link fence installation. Fence covers are an alternative to slats that you may want to consider as a way to spruce up chain link fencing.
Plastic and Vinyl Fences
Vinyl Fence
Vinyl fencing cost is estimated at $24 per foot. This includes material and costs to install.
This large white vinyl privacy fence is a great balance between aesthetics and function in man-made fencing.
PVC Fence
Pvc fencing makes a great garden fence because of its easy setup and great looks.
Plastic Fencing
Plastic fence panels are an easy choice due to their cost and durability.
Composite Fencing
Composite fences are made up of both plastic and wood. They come in various sizes, colors, shapes, and textures.
Brick Fences
Brick columns and iron fencing are mixed together to make a stunning structure.
A solid brick fence with a wrought iron security gate is the pinnacle of security and style.
Brick fence designs come in many shapes and sizes. This modern dark, brick fencing mixed with a detailed iron gate gives a traditional look and feel. Check out our other article on stone fencing here.
Fence Type by Function
Next, we will cover less common, but very useful fences by their function. These will include a pool, garden, modern, temporary, invisible, farm, snow, and even fences for animals (horses, deer, cats, and dogs).
Garden Fence Designs
Garden fencing can be placed in the front yard or backyard and is typically shorter than a standard privacy fence. It can be used for purely visual purposes or can be used to keep smaller animals and rodents away.
Classic English garden fencing makes a beautiful addition to any front or side yard.
Old farm garden fence reinforced with round posts for stability.
White garden fencing with double-wide latch gate for easy access.
Beautiful stained brown fence done in a variety of sections and heights with squared posts really make these bright flowers pop.
Simple but pretty bright white garden fence. These short planks, done all the same height all around these flowers add a nice visual appeal to this garden.
Farm Fence
Farm fencing can come in many different styles and variations. Common farm fences include Split rail fencing, post and rail fence, post and barb wire fence, or any combination of fencing and wire material. Because farms can potentially span hundreds of acres; cost, durability, and efficiency are major concerns when choosing a fence.
Farm fences can span for miles and are commonly made with 4×4 posts and long wooden planks.
Round posts spread out over 4-6 feet lined with barb wire are a great deterrent for animals.
A large aluminum farm gate is large enough for large vehicles or animals to pass through.
Electric Fence
Electric fencing is used as a deterrent for animals and humans to stay away. When someone or something touches the fence and is grounded to the earth they will be shocked. The power of the shock can vary greatly, anywhere from an annoyance to death.
Fence posts are laid out with the electric fence wire attached to the posts. The electric wire is ground on one with an earth rod.
NOTE: Consult an expert in electric fences before installing, as misuse can result in death.
Animal and Pet Fences
A pet fence is all about containment. Pet owners have a responsibility to keep their animals safe, and in some cases keep others safe from their animals. Not only for insurance purposes but in many cases you can be held legally responsible if your animal causes damage to property, vehicle, or person.
Horse Fencing
A post and rail fence is a common choice for keeping horses fenced in. The major concern with a horse fence should be strength and height. Many horse fences look like a standard farm fences but have been extended in height so a horse cannot jump over.
A standard farm fence painted white with wire mesh attached for extra control.
White farm fence with four rails high, for extra height.
A yellow round tube metal fence is also a nice choice for horses.
Deer Fence
Deer fencing is a protective mesh or barrier made out of several different materials. Common choices include metal, galvanized steel, plastic mesh, PVC, and black polypropylene. Most stores sell deer fences in rolls of 7 ft x 100 ft.
Deer fence posts can be separated and placed quite far apart. Just make sure the mesh material is pulled tight when installing.
Dog Fence
There is no right or wrong way to create a dog fence. The basic idea is the containment of the k9. Most opt for some type of metal fencings like chain link fence or wire mesh. The quantity and size of dogs need to be taken into consideration when choosing the size and strength needed. Most dog owners choose to make a large area for the dogs to roam.
A large span of chain link dog fencing creates a large area for dogs to roam and play.
Use fencing materials to create a hybrid of a dog fence and a large kennel area.
Small and lightweight black metal wire creates a portable outdoor kennel.
Invisible Fence
An invisible fence is an option for dog owners to create an unseen fence or boundary for their dog. Most kits include a base station, a shock collar, and flags to place as a learning tool for your pet. Most low-end invisible fences cost around $200-$300 dollars while some range upward of $2,000.
When you have an open backyard it can be challenging to keep your pet contained. The invisible fence is a perfect solution!
An electric dog collar is used for electric invisible dog fencing. Invisible fencing
Patio Fence Ideas
This little white fence encloses the patio area nicely and ties in well with the white trim on the home.
Beautifully done white fence with planks placed close together, leaving just a small space between each plank. The circular detail on top of each plank gives this fence some unique detail. This kind of fence is easy to decorate with potted plants and any floral options when you have an unexpected party.
Designer fences like this are made from a combination of lattice work done at different heights and a solid door up the stairs to enclose the area.
The fencing in the back shows natural wood planks placed side by side all the way down leaving no room in between to create complete privacy for the yard.
The lattice work on this fence creates a simple barrier and helps enclose this cute patio set and area. The thick beams throughout allow a sturdy structure to hang flowers and outdoor decor.
Other Fence types (Not as Common)
DIY Fence
Most People never think of repurposing a pallet for a fence, but here are 13 great pallet fence ideas.
Pool Fence
Black metal pool fencing surrounds this large pool area.
View Our Gallery of 16 Pool Fence Ideas Here.
White pool fencing made from vinyl railing makes an excellent and cost-effective option.
Not all pool fences are made of mesh or metal. The image above has a stainless steel pool post with glass fencing panels to create an open and modern addition to any backyard.
Short Fence
A short fence is a simple way to create a land line while keeping an open feeling in your yard.
Low Fence
Low fencing creates a barrier to entry without blocking the view.
Temporary Fencing
A temporary fence is a great option when you need cheap fencing done in a hurry. Whether you are blocking off a potential hazard or wanting to contain an animal until you find a more permanent solution, there are plenty of plastic and metal products that will suit your needs.
Common temporary fencing types. Available in green, black, orange, and unfinished metal.
Orange reusable temporary fencing. Easy to put up and take down.
Silt Fence
Slit fencing is primarily used on construction sites to help control contamination of water supplies from water and storm runoff.
Slit of filter fence helps protect nearby water by creating a barrier to keep unwanted chemicals and sediment contained.
Snow Fence
Snow fencing is used to help control snowdrifts in heavy winds. This type of fencing helps protect roads from accumulating too much snow to help alleviate unsafe driving conditions.
A simple orange plastic fence is a useful way to create a barrier for blocking snowdrifts. Wood snow fences are also used but lack portability and tend to be more expensive.