Are you looking for a privacy fence that ensures lasting privacy without any gaps? If so, board on board fences are a great option for you. In this article, we will go through everything that you need to know about board on board fences, including their pros and cons, types, top caps, and cost.
What is a Board on Board Fence?
A board on board fence is a type of privacy fence that features an overlapping pattern of vertical pickets. The first layer consists of 6-inch wide boards installed with a 1 ½-inch gap, while the second layer consists of 4-inch wide boards that are installed to overlap the first layer and cover the gaps. With this overlapping pattern, no gaps will ever be visible on a board-to-board fence.
Pros and Cons of Board on Board Fences
Pros
- Lasting privacy: One of the main advantages of a board on board fence over other wood privacy fences is that it ensures lasting privacy without any gaps.
- Visual interest: The texture of the overlapping boards creates more visual interest.
Cons
- Cost: A board on board fence will cost more than other wood privacy fences because the pickets overlap by 1″ to 1 1/2″.
- Materials: You will need up to 30% more pickets for a board on board fence than a stockade style fence, and the vertical boards will need to be finished before installation to cover the overlapping edges.
Types of Board on Board Fences
Wood
Wood is the most common material used to construct board on board fences. Popular choices include pressure-treated pine, Eastern White Cedar, Western Red Cedar, Redwood, and Cypress.
Vinyl
If you want a board on board privacy fence that is durable and requires less maintenance, vinyl is a great option. It won’t rot or crack due to changes in temperature or moisture, and you can clean it with regular soap and water.
Composite
Board on board fences constructed of composite fence panels offer an attractive alternative to both wood and vinyl. Composite fence boards manufactured with recycled sawdust covered by cap of recycled plastic will be stronger due to the density of the material.
Board on Board Fences with Top Caps
To ensure water doesn’t affect the exposed ends of the pickets, the top cap is a horizontal board laid flat on the top edge of the fence. The side trims are attached to the vertical surface of the fence just under the top cap. Side trims can be on one side or both sides of the fence. Additionally, you can add more aesthetic interest with a lattice fence topper.
Board on Board Fence Panels
If you want to skip the effort of constructing a board on board fence, you can purchase pre-built fence panels made of wood or vinyl. The panels are six feet in length and ready for installation.
Horizontal Board on Board Fence
A horizontal board on board fence places the pickets horizontally attached to the posts. This style is gaining popularity because of its sleek modern look.
Board on Board Fence vs Side by Side
Board on board fences have overlapping pickets while a side by side fence will have pickets installed edge to edge. The former ensures no gaps appear as the wood shrinks with age, opposed to pickets installed side by side which may shrink over time.
Board on Board Fence vs Shadow Box Fence
A board on board fence has overlapping pickets installed on the same side of the horizontal rail. A shadowbox fence alternates pickets on the opposite sides of the fence rail. While a board on board fence will not have gaps, a shadow box creates gaps as part of the design.
Is Board on Board Fence More Expensive?
Compared to other wood privacy fences, board on board fences are more expensive due to the pickets’ overlapping pattern.
How Long Will a Board on Board Fence Last?
A board on board fence’s durability depends on the choice of materials.
Is Board on Board Fencing a Privacy Fence?
Yes, board on board fences are one of the few complete privacy fences, ensuring no gaps appear as the wood shrinks with age.
Conclusion
Board on board fences are a popular choice for their visual interest and aesthetic appeal. However, before making any final decisions, you should always consider what best suits your needs and budget. So, choose wisely!
