Rural Fences in Twin Falls, ID: Split Rail Fencing

A Classic Rural Fence

Split rail fencing, ranch-style split wood fencing, log fencing, buck-and-rail fencing, post and rail fencing--a fence known by any other name is still, in this case, an aesthetic and economical choice for rural fencing. This polyonymous style of fence is perhaps the most highly sought after fencing style for rural clients; made of either vinyl or cedar wood, split rail fencing is one of the most affordable types of fencing because of how little material is used in comparison to other fencing styles. Split rail fencing is typically composed of posts spaced apart and joined by two or three horizontal rails all the way around the fence. It has a fairly low profile, and although it doesn’t afford much privacy or security, it’s an excellent choice for keeping large livestock contained. Split rail fencing is typically useful for: 

• Delineating long property lines: this type of fencing can cover a lot of ground for a more affordable price than other styles of fencing. If you have a large property with many acres you want to encircle, consider using split rail fencing. 

• Separating two large areas of land: if you have livestock you don’t want intermingling, split rail fencing can keep portions of your property securely separate, and if you want to separate your garden from where your animals are kept, split rail fencing can accomplish this purpose handily. 

• Containing livestock: Similarly, split rail fencing is an affordable option to create a safe area where livestock can roam and graze while giving you peace of mind that they won’t wander off into dangerous territory. 

• Aesthetic appeal: a classic split rail fence has an appeal to it that few other kinds of fencing can offer. It improves curb appeal and can provide an area for signs and decorations like Christmas lights or garlands. 

Advantages of Split Rail Fencing

Because split rail fencing doesn’t use a lot of materials, it’s extremely affordable while fulfilling the aforementioned purpose of keeping livestock contained. Because of this sparse use of materials, it’s also very easy to install, which can save you labor costs as well. And, because it’s fairly easy to install, ambitious DIYers can certainly tackle this task with decent results. Additionally, it’s very aesthetically appealing, adding a rustic charm to large properties or along a front yard or driveway. The most traditional option is cedar wood, which is naturally mold, rot, and insect resistant. Vinyl, while a little more expensive, gives a clean and modern look, and often lasts longer with less maintenance than cedar wood. 

Disadvantages of Split Rail Fencing

Because the railings are spaced apart in this style of fencing, smaller pets and children can easily crawl through this fence. Larger livestock will be contained, but more agile creatures like your lapdog or sister’s toddler will need more supervision. Because of its structure, privacy and security aren’t afforded by split rail fencing; for this reason, most residential clients in more urban and suburban areas don’t prefer this fencing style, as closer neighbors means less privacy, and higher population density often means there is an increased need for security. 

One potential workaround if you need to keep smaller animals contained is to install wire mesh. Chicken wire serves this purpose well; on a smaller section of your property that needs to keep dogs or chickens contained, you can install chicken wire or another wire mesh over the fence, which will keep these animals contained without disrupting the aesthetic of your property. 

Whether you choose to go with a split rail fence or choose another option for your next fence installation, the fence professionals at Certified Fencing are excited for this next step in your landscaping adventures and are eager to help bring your vision to life. Whether you want our services to help with each step of the way or want to source high-quality fencing supplies and materials for a DIY fencing project, we’re here to help! We serve Twin Falls, Boise, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Kuna, Middleton, Meridian, ID, and all surrounding areas. Call (208) 449-2040 or fill out our online contact form for more information or to schedule a consultation today!