Split Rail

Split Rail Fences

Split rail fences are as much a part of American history and culture as barn houses and green lawns. Since colonial days, Americans have used split rail fences to enclose livestock and differentiate property. Though their rustic charm is most often associated with farms and ranches, the simple and effective design of a split rail fence can complement many kinds of properties, from rural farmland to urban parks and homes.

A split rail fence is made out of horizontal wood or vinyl rails connected by vertical posts. They are often constructed low to the ground to pen livestock or fencing off large properties. In addition to being customizable and highly versatile, the simple design and little amount of material needed make the split rail fence a popular choice for many property owners who want to fence off their property at a low cost.

If you are interested in installing a split rail fence on your property, Long® Fence is here to help. Our split rail fences are custom-built to your specifications and carry a one-year guarantee. Our representatives will help you determine which height of split rail fencing will fit your individual needs. They will take into account county and city codes and homeowner association restrictions. For more information, request a free estimate or give us a call today.

Advantages of split rail fences

Split rail fences are perfect for property owners who want to fence off a large amount of property. They require a fraction of the amount of material that solid wood, vinyl, or aluminum fences require. Because they are customizable, a split rail fence can be designed to fence in any animal, such as dogs or farm animals, while keeping out deer and other unwanted animals.

If you are looking for a simple design with high visibility, a split rail fence is a perfect option. It effectively delineates your property while allowing you and your guests to see through the fence to the other side easily. This keeps the view of the surrounding landscape free from obstruction, contributing to an open and inviting feel for your property. It also allows your neighbors and passers-by to see your property from the outside.

Customizing your split rail fence

Split rail fences come in many shapes and sizes. However, if you have specific requirements for your property, the versatility of the split rail fence makes it easy for us to accommodate your needs and desires. For example, you can customize not only the height of the fence but also the length of the rails and how far apart the rails are spaced. You can also choose the shape of the rail. Generally, rails can be round, half-round, square, or diamond.

Some homeowners also choose to install wire mesh between the horizontal rails. This makes the fence much harder for small animals to penetrate, allowing you to keep your small children, pets, or farm animals in your property and deter skunks, rabbits, and other pests from entering.

The wire mesh also provides a layer of security, making it harder for trespassers to slip through the rails into your property. At the same time, the wire mesh does not block the view through the fence to the other side. The wire mesh can be added during or after installation and can be removed at any time.

Wood versus vinyl

When it comes to your split rail fence, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is whether you want it constructed of wood or vinyl. Traditionally, split rail fences are made of wood. Nothing matches the raw smell of fresh-cut wood or the intricate ring patterns of a genuine wood surface. A wood split rail fence naturally blends into the landscape and adds a rustic and sturdy feel to your property.

If you choose to install a wood split rail fence, we offer pressure-treated pine that is affordable and resilient to the elements. Though wood is still a popular option, many property owners have begun to turn to vinyl as another option. Over time, wood will usually crack or fade as it is exposed to the elements. Wood is also vulnerable to rot and termites, though cedar and pressure-treated pine are more resistant. Vinyl, on the other hand, is a synthetic material that will remain fresh and healthy-looking for years or even decades after it’s installed. It is also much more difficult for livestock to chew through vinyl than wood. Vinyl is more expensive than wood upfront, but because of the low maintenance costs, you may end up saving money in the long run.

Split rail fence installation

If you buy a split rail fence from Long® Fence, you can rest assured that our installers will be thorough and exact. We are knowledgeable about local codes and restrictions and will ensure your fence is installed correctly according to your specifications. Call today for more information. Our representatives will be happy to help you determine whether a split rail fence is right for your property and provide a free estimate.

For more information on the best split rail fence for your home, request a Free Estimate or call us at 1-800-917-5664.