The Basics Of Split Rail – Why It’s A Great Choice?

When it comes to adding a fence to your home, you want to make sure you choose the right style that is functional and suits all of your family’s needs and wants in a fence. Any homeowner who has looked into adding a fence to their home knows there are many different options to choose from and each style has its attributes that set them apart from one another. 

Split rail fencing was one of the earlier kinds of fencing used and it is still a very popular fencing style among homeowners. But why is it so popular that is has been around for centuries? Well, let’s dive into some of the basics of split rail fencing and find out why it’s such a great fencing option!

Installation 

One of the main reasons why homeowners buy certain fence styles is so the installation process is easy and stress-free. With split rail fencing, you are easily able to install your fence yourself with no help from contractors, friends, or family. Split rail fencing has pre-cut spaces for the rails to slide in which makes installation stress free. You don’t need to secure the rails like you do pickets on privacy fencing, which allows for the materials to be kept at a minimum. 

Here is a simple list of what you may need to install your split rail fence: 

• Saw for cutting the rails and posts to fit your height 
• Measuring Tape 
• Hammer or mallet to put posts in 
• Sealant 
• Screws (optional) 
• Drill (optional) 
• Nail gun (optional) 
• Nails (optional) 
• String line 
• Shovel 
• Posthole digger

**Optional Items are listed because you do not need securing measures for a split rail fence, but you can use them for extra stability** 

Design 

Another fun aspect of split rail fencing is that you can create different designs with the rails, rather than keeping with the traditional colonial look of split rail. Depending on whether or not your split rail fence is 2 rails or 3 rails, you can create different designs such as an X shape or even a Z to get creative. With the design, you can also choose how many rails you want and how many posts you want total for the layout of your fence. 

Maintenance 

Another component of the split rail fence is that the maintenance is very easy and worry-free to keep up with. Unlike other fence styles where you might find yourself needing to replace some of the pickets or repaint and restain a few spots- with split rail fencing, you don’t have to. You can coat your split rail fence with a clear sealant to protect your rails even more, but it is not required.

Curb Appeal

Your home’s value is affected by the curb appeal. Any additions you make to your home will add to your curb appeal and the value of your home, which is ideal when you are looking to resell your home. Most homeowners nowadays are wanting a more rustic and raw look for their home, in which split rail fencing is perfect. 

At the end of the day, you want your fence to be an addition to your home that makes statement. Your fence is a very big part of your curb appeal for the exterior of your home alongside the paint, siding, and decor. You want to choose a fence that fits your needs, but also a fence that looks best for your home and suits it well. 

Make sure you take into account where you are getting your split rail fence materials and what budgeting factors to consider. Sometimes depending on where your supplier sources their split rail fencing from, the cost may be more or less. Make sure you do your research before you pick your supplier. Another thing to consider is that sometimes your split rail fencing may be better quality when you buy from a place that buys mill direct. This means they have better control over the quality of their products and there will be fewer imperfections. Just a few things to keep in mind when shopping for your split rail fence. 

For more information on our split rail fence or to get some inspiration, give us a call at 303.857.5049. You can also come visit us to talk to a fencing specialist today!