What To Consider Before Choosing A Shadow Box Fence For Privacy

Come to think of it, a fence is not just a boundary. If it were, you could dig a ditch, plant arrows, place some logs, or do anything to define your personal space. The truth is, we don't like prying eyes. Moreover, you may agree with American philosopher Ayn Rand that a civilized person is a private person. The savage lives their life, or most of it, in public. That said, you're a person with taste, and even if you want privacy, you also need a fence that looks good. Granted, a nicely trimmed hawthorn hedge can look and feel peaceful — but nothing beats the sleek appearance of a shadow box fence.

Spoiler alert: don't run with it. To determine the style of fence your home needs, including the shadow-box type, you'll want first to consider certain factors, including their price, maintenance, and even their ability to contain your pets. One important factor is the level of privacy you are aiming for. Assessing your privacy needs is crucial because a shadow box fence may not be ideal if you want your compound to be completely shut off. The reason is that the vertical boards of a shadow box fence are alternately attached to the low-placed horizontal rail, with one fastened to the front — and the subsequent one to the back. At a distance, it will look compact. However, If one comes closer, they can easily peer through the spaces separating the boards.

The other major factor to consider before choosing a shadow box fence is the amount of cash you are willing to spend. For example, while a vinyl shadow box fence can set you back between $18 and $45 per linear foot installed, a wood fence costs up to $30 per linear foot, with labor and other installation costs included. Of course, there are different types of wooden fences out there, and the type of wood you choose will make you fork out more cash or pay slightly less. For instance, pressure-treated and pine woods are significantly cheaper than cedar and redwood planks. But you can have a long-term view of it, in which case, although pine is initially cheap — it may be more expensive in the long run because of its regular maintenance costs.

A few more notes: since a shadow box fence has tiny spaces, some animals you're keeping, including small dogs, cats, rabbits, or chinchillas, may wriggle out, get harmed, or disappear. On the other hand, these same spaces offer better airflow in your yard and can be made tighter to try to contain small pets or maintain better privacy. Additionally, check the style of backyard fence you want as well, whether flat-topped, arched, French Gothic, or some other style of shadow box fencing that'll match your taste.