On the Fence About Fencing: Picket Fence vs Privacy Fence

There's a lot of tradition wrapped up in fence design, from the most rugged ranch fence to the classiest English lattice fence. Over the centuries, thousands of stylistic variations have emerged in fencing, with options related to building materials, board shape, post width, cap designs, and plenty more. To make things all the more complex, some of our most traditional concepts of fencing have evolved. The picket fence, for example, might conjure memories of the classic, wood-built, white fences of a 1950's American suburb. In truth, though, today's picket fences are consistent only in their spaced out alignment of vertical boards, and they can be constructed from wood, vinyl (PVC) or even steel and aluminum (as in ornamental picket fences).

In the most general terminology, the counterpoint to the picket fence, in a suburban setting, would be the privacy fence, which can be built from wood, stone, concrete, and many other materials, and does not "breathe" like a picket fence. In other words, it's a solid fence that you can't see through. So, between these two types of fences, which one would work best in your yard?

Picket Fence

Though, by definition, a fence is intended to communicate a sense of separation, a picket fence does so in a uniquely welcoming manner. More of a property dividing line and aesthetic component than a wall of security, picket fences, no matter what the make or style, enable onlookers to see what's happening on the other side. If you've worked hard on your home's appearance, or on your property's surrounding landscaping and gardens, you may not want to close it off from the neighborhood. This is why the picket fence is associated with the stereotypical, friendly suburban neighborhood. By its nature, it invites visitors, showcases a home, and adds a bit of class along the way.

Privacy Fence

Essentially an outdoor wall, usually six feet high or more, the privacy fence can be just as elegant as the picket fence, but the message it sends is quite different. Privacy fences, as the names suggest, are ideal for homeowners who wish to keep their daily lives, and the lives of their family, private and personal. Depending on the materials used, some privacy fences can appear somewhat more intimidating than others, but the goal is the same: to maintain the peace and comfort that come with a little well earned seclusion.

And the winner is. . .

Semi-Privacy Fencing! Yeah, I threw you a curveball there. Fortunately, there are fence designs that leave breathing space between boards, but much less than the average picket fence. This gives them a less imposing presence than a full privacy fence, while still effectively creating a visual divide between your yard and the outside world.