Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (2024)

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (1)

You know what they say: Good fences make good neighbors. And while fencing may not be the most exciting topic when it comes to exterior and landscape design, they are essential—especially in the backyard. So we've laid out plenty of backyard privacy fence ideas to make your home a little safer from intruders and keep nosy neighbors out of your business. Some are DIY projects, while others may require a little more work and investment, but they'll all help you maintain good boundaries. Read through to learn about your backyard fence options to decide which is best for you.

1

Try Wood Slats With Greenery

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (2)

For privacy and a jungle-like effect, designer Christina Nielsen gave this Brooklyn backyard privacy via a fence made of horizontal wood slats, which acts as a trellis for climbing greenery. Additional landscaping boosts the patio's liveliness. She also outfitted the space with an umbrella for extra shade and cozy seat throw pillows, making it the perfect city escape.

2

Add Faux Decor

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (3)

Spruce up a basic privacy fence with faux greenery and additional wall decor. To create the no-maintenance garden in this small urban backyard, designer Alison Victoria removed the glass from an antique pier mirror that was formerly in the entryway of an old home and then nailed faux fir panels directly into the fence.

3

Go Short—and Rustic

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (4)

A short pallet fence makes an excellent option if you're only after a little privacy, want protection from things like unwanted animal intruders, or want to let your pets roam in a secure area. At this log cabin by designer Emily Janak, the fence enhances the rustic look without taking away from forest views.

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4

Mix Solid and Lattice Fencing

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (5)

Go for a decorative look by mixing solid fencing on the bottom and lattice fencing on top. Not only will it add interest and offer ample privacy, but the lattice detail will allow more light into the space.

5

Paint It Dark

If you're into a moody, modern look, paint your privacy fence charcoal or black. In this backyard by Terremoto, the dark fence and pergola are perfectly balanced by the warmth of the light wood seating and a plethora of plants.

6

Go Classic

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A traditional white post and rail fence like this one has a quaint air to it—there's a reason it evokes images of the American Dream. Use reclaimed wood for a rustic feel, or paint it white for that small-town charm as designer Marshall Watson did here.

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7

Chain Link or Wire Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (8)

Chicken coop fencing isn't necessarily the prettiest option out there, but wire fencing does increase safety (and it's cheap). If you decorate well enough, nobody will even notice it because they'll be too busy focusing on the great furniture and decor, like on this patio by Leanne Ford Interiors.

8

Rustic Split-Rail Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (9)

Like a four-rail horse fence only more rustic, this simple design can be easily built from scratch. If you want to protect your home more, you can cover the gaps in your split rail fence with mesh. It's great for pets on the perimeter.

9

Solid Tiled Wall

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (10)

When it comes to privacy and safety concerns, a solid wall is a better route to take than a fence. This one in a home designed by Arent & Pyke also happens to set the scene on the patio nicely. Covered in tiles, it delivers sophistication and style.

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10

Iron-Wrought Fence

Overlooking a gorgeous view like this, a backyard fence should blend in, so you can really soak in the vista beyond. An iron-wrought fence is both durable and practical, modern and timeless. Take note of this Malibu oasis designed by Alexander DB for inspiration.

11

Rattan or Bamboo Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (12)

Instead of a classic wood-paneled fence, try a bamboo or rattan variation. It boasts a bohemian island vibe and does well in tropical climates, though it's also resilient in chillier environments and can withstand snow. Take note of this one at the Papaya Playa Project hotel in Tulum. But keep in mind it may be pricier than classic wood fencing options.

12

Brick Wall

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (13)

On this patio designed by Hecker Guthrie, the brick wall adds a charming old-school touch. The white paint makes it fit in well with the other modern elements, like the brushed cement flooring and oversized planter, too.

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13

Trees and Shrubbery

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (14)

The backyard is your space to reconnect with nature and unwind in the fresh air. So instead of saturating it with furniture and an eyesore of a fence, get creative with landscaping. A concentration of tall shrubs and trees can function as a living wall, like this one designed by Studio Lifestyle.

14

Garden Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (15)

Keep your flowerbeds and vegetables safe in the garden with an extra fence. Since gardens are meant to be lush and beautiful, opt for fencing that blends in well with the environment. This 8-foot tall wooden fence in a space designed by Lisa Bynon sets the right mood—it's the perfect balance between open and closed.

15

Stone Wall

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (16)

You'll have to check zoning regulations for your region before erecting a stone wall, but it can be a great option for extra backyard privacy and security. Plus, the natural stones are perfect for country chic style.

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16

Garden Trellis

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (17)

A solid fence on the outskirts of the property is a great idea, while charming trellis fences are best in a sprawling garden space like this one. Limiting yourself to one type of flower saves on yard work in the long run. For a client who really loves roses, Edmund Hollander planted some 250 English grandifloras. It doesn't get more romantic than this.

17

Spliced Wood Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (18)

Landscape design firm Hollander Design collaborated with Roger Ferris & Partners to create this gorgeous, architectural backyard fence. It's a modern interpretation of the classic spliced picket fence and brings a touch of privacy. It all depends on how open or closed you want the fence to be.

18

DIY Addition

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (19)

That DIY fence extension gives this tiny backyard a tropical appeal while also enhancing privacy. If your stucco garden wall is too short to block the neighbors but you don't want to block out the sunlight, a slatted option like this is perfect.

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19

Tall Hedge

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (20)

This yard designed by Arent & Pyke proves that hedges are a lovely backdrop for outdoor living rooms. One grand hedge like this will enhance privacy while also adding some greenery, making it the perfect backyard fencing for anyone wanting to keep things green.

20

Portable Partition

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (21)

On a city balcony with little privacy, add at least an illusion of privacy with a room divider against the section that separates yours from your neighbors. Just make sure you choose a screen that can withstand the outdoors.

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (2024)

FAQs

What type of fence provides the most privacy? ›

Simple Vinyl Privacy Fence

One of the most effective privacy fence styles on the market, these vinyl fences are made of tall vinyl panels that completely block the line of sight.

How can I make an inexpensive privacy fence? ›

If you can find a good source of free pallets, a DIY wood pallet fence can be one of the cheapest options for a privacy fence. Pallets come in a few sizes, but the most common standard dimension is 48 inches by 40 inches, which means it can be on the short side for a fence.

What is the easiest privacy fence to maintain? ›

Vinyl fencing

You won't need to sand, stain, or paint– just spray your vinyl fence with a hose to reveal its original beauty. Vinyl is made of long-lasting plastic and comes in a variety of colors and textures. Choose a smooth plastic, or opt for a vinyl that emulates wood grain for a faux-wood white picket fence.

How to make a fence more private? ›

Consider other garden screening options

Screening rolls made from bamboo, reed, or rattan make great privacy screens and can also help to disguise damaged or degrading fence panels. Many companies also offer acoustic fencing solutions, which can help to block out noise as well as protect from overlooking.

What are fences that annoy neighbors? ›

Spite fences are fences constructed purely to annoy a neighbor. They're usually tall, ugly, or both.

What type of privacy fence is cheapest? ›

Picket. Picket wood fencing is a popular and cheap fencing type in the United States that provides privacy and protection to your property. The vertical spaced out picket attached to the bottom and top horizontal rails is available in various decoration styles that boost your curb appeal and home value.

Is it cheaper to build a privacy fence or buy panels? ›

In summary: premade fence panels, in most cases, are cheaper and requires less installation time. However, it is best suited for yards without hills or slopes.

What is the least expensive fence? ›

What is the cheapest fencing right now?
  • Wooden Fences: A Classic and Cost-Effective Choice.
  • Chain Link Fences: An Economical Security Solution.
  • Vinyl Fences: The Low-Cost Alternative to Wood.
  • Bamboo Fences: A Natural and Budget-Friendly Option.
  • Corrugated Metal Fences: A Modern and Affordable Solution.
  • Conclusion.
Sep 16, 2023

What type of privacy fence lasts the longest? ›

Chain-link fences with a galvanized finish that doesn't rust are the longest lasting fences. All other components of the fence are made of steel and are also galvanized, so there is relatively no maintenance. Even the American Fence Association agrees, finding that chain-link fences are economical and secure.

What is the best natural privacy fence? ›

Shrubs generally require more pruning to maintain their shape, but their density is ideal for privacy. Top types of shrubs for privacy landscaping include privet, hawthorn, arborvitae and boxwood, and for thicker, wider shrubs, lilac and forsythia can add a pop of color as well as dense screening.

What is the toughest privacy fence? ›

A classic wrought iron fence is a timeless choice for adding elegance and sophistication to any property. Wrought iron fences are very durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They also provide security and privacy, as they are difficult to climb or cut through.

How do I block neighbors' view of my yard? ›

Although fences and brick walls can do the trick, adding an extra divider, screen or plant barrier can block your neighbor's two-story view for good. To create your secret retreat, freestanding privacy screens, wood slat partitions and partially enclosed pergolas are effective (and nice to look at).

How can I make an inexpensive privacy screen? ›

Buy several large planters and fill them with tall, decorative grasses or flowers. Arrange the planters in a row along a section of your porch, patio or other areas where you need screening. This is a less expensive version of the classic (but somewhat pricey) use of shrubs to form a privacy fence.

What fence doesn t block the view? ›

Metal Mesh Fences

They provide a stylish look while preserving views, making them an excellent choice for homeowners focused on aesthetics and pet safety.

What is the best fence for visibility? ›

Wrought Iron and Aluminum Fences. These metal fences are often designed with vertical bars, providing substantial visibility but less privacy.

What is the longest lasting privacy fence? ›

Chain-link fences with a galvanized finish that doesn't rust are the longest lasting fences. All other components of the fence are made of steel and are also galvanized, so there is relatively no maintenance. Even the American Fence Association agrees, finding that chain-link fences are economical and secure.

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