13 Types of Backyard Privacy Fences (Pictures)

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When it comes to spending time outdoors, many people love to do so right in their backyard. Whether it be through hosting visitors or camping near your own fire pit, many people love getting to be outside while staying right at home. One drawback is that without some type of fence or border, there isn’t much privacy. So in this article, we’re going to show you 13 different types of backyard privacy fences to consider for your own backyard.

13 Types of Backyard Privacy Fences

Many people choose to install privacy fences, and with the wide of array of options, there is something out there for every house. This list looks at 13 types of privacy fences that are out there.

1. Slat wood fence

wood horizontal slat fencing
Image by Wolfgang Eckert from Pixabay

Slat wood fences, also called pallet fences, are a great option for those that live in urban areas. The design of this fence allows it to blend in with the natural environment, and it provides more sun than other privacy fence options. These can be decorated in various ways, and one of the most popular options is using greenery.

Adding vines and other green plants that can grow through the slats is a great way to make this fence blend in with your yard.


2. White picket fence

White picket fence
White picket fence Image by Peter Brown from Pixabay

White picket fences are a classic when it comes to privacy fences. They are considered a symbol of the American Dream and can make any yard feel quaint. These are typically made with reclaimed wood to give them the rustic design that so many love.

Some people may choose for their white picket fence to be more spread out, allowing for gaps of space. However, they can easily be used to provide privacy from neighbors.


3. Tiled wood fence

Tiled wood fences are a great option for privacy, but they also provide more security than regular wooden fence options. These are another great option in urban areas where privacy is needed. The tile design gives it a sophisticated look that many other fences just don’t have.

This is perfect for combining style and privacy.


4. Bamboo fence

Bamboo fence
Bamboo fence Image by 👀 Mabel Amber, who will one day from Pixabay

Bamboo fences are a great alternative to the wooden privacy fences that many people have. These do best in tropical climates, especially given the island-style they have, but can be used anywhere. Bamboo privacy fences are resilient enough to withstand cold environments and even snow.

However, the bamboo options are typically going to be more expensive than wood.


5. Brick wall

Brick wall
Brick wall Image by 👀 Mabel Amber, who will one day from Pixabay

Another more sturdy option for a privacy fence is brick wall fencing. Just like the tiled wood fences, these can provide more security than traditional options. They are a modern approach to privacy that is more popular in cities and urban areas.

The bricks can be painted any color, but a popular choice is white. These are also one of the best options to keep out the wind.


6. Stone wall

Stone wall
Stone wall Image by Nicole Köhler from Pixabay

If the brick fence doesn’t seem like the best fit, a similar option is the stone wall fence. These provide ample privacy and security. Natural stones are a beautiful choice, especially for countryside options.

One issue to keep in mind is that stone wall fences do go against zoning restrictions in some areas. They can keep our harsh winds, but open gaps can be added in some spots to allow for a breeze.


7. Tall hedges

wooden bench in front of tall hedges
Image by 👀 Mabel Amber, who will one day from Pixabay

Using tall grand hedges is a perfect option for those that want privacy without any of the traditional fencing options. It will add ample greenery to any yard and is sure to be a beautiful setting for any outdoor gathering.

A similar choice with more color is a combination of shrubbery and trees. They have a similar style to the tall hedges but offer more variety.


8. Wood panel fence

wood panel fencing
credit: Denis Labrecque via Flickr

One of the least expensive options for a privacy fence is wood panels. They provide the classic look of backyard fencing and have a fairly straightforward approach. While many will place the panels side by side for the most privacy, they can also be spaced further apart.

This provides areas for the wind to blow through but also gives others a glimpse into your yard.


9. Convex fence

Convex fences have a similar style to the wood panel fences, but the difference is in the height of the board. Different-sized wood boards will be used to create the look of waves rising and falling. It has a simple design that would fit in with any neighborhood and is quite common in upscale areas.

Just like wood panel fences, the boards can be spaced further apart to allow for a nice breeze, with less privacy.


10. Dog-eared fence

dog eared wood privacy fence
Dog-eared wooden fence | image by Ben Baligad via Flickr | CC BY 2.0

The style of fence known as a “dog-eared” fence is designed to be charming and homey, making them a great option for nearly any yard. The top of each board is cut on both sides so they have a rounded appearance. When the boards are placed together, this fence will have a bumpy top instead of the traditional flat-top style.

Even though this privacy fence is named after the dog-eared shape cut into it, there are other shape options. This allows it to fit with nearly any style.


11. Stockade fence

fort parker palisade stockade wood fence
Image by Mike Goad from Pixabay

Stockade privacy fences are the best options for those that are most concerned with security. The side by sideboards of this fence has sharp, pointed tops to deter any intruders. These are even better than stone or brick wall fences when it comes to keeping climbers out.

However, stockade fences do appear unwelcoming to most people, and may not fit in with every neighborhood. There are similar options with pointed tops that look more decorative.


12. Lattice fence

Lattice fence
Lattice fence Image by Deedster from Pixabay

Lattice fences are one of the most decorative choices there is when it comes to privacy fences, but they can offer less privacy than others. They are created using narrow boards and a criss-cross design that allows onlookers to see into your yard. However, adding climbing vines and other greenery to these fences will increase privacy and add decoration to your yard.

They are more secure than hedges or shrubbery but provide more decoration than wooden fences. A similar option is to add latticework on top of already established fences.


13. Vinyl fence

flowering plum tree near white vinyl fence
Image by Classically Printed from Pixabay

Vinyl privacy fences are designed to look similar to traditional wooden ones, but they are much easier to maintain. It’s stronger than wood options, won’t attract any pests, and doesn’t warp or rot. While these fences can’t be painted once installed, the vinyl itself comes in various colors. All these fences need to stay clean and new looking is some soap and water.