What is a shadow box fence? A shadow box fence is a good neighbor fence. A shadow box fence is also known as a picket fence. In the fence industry, experts have another name, the good neighbor fence. Mark...
A shadow box fence is also known as a picket fence. In the fence industry, experts have another name, the good neighbor fence. Mark Williams, a fence estimator for Viking Fence with six years experience in building fences, says this type of fence may be what you are looking for if you live in a neighborhood where everyone looks out for each other.
"When you look at the fence head on, it looks like a wood privacy fence. But when you look at it as you are walking down the sidewalk, you can see spaces through it. On one side there are pickets with certain spacing. On the other side there are more pickets with different spacing. This is a good neighbor fence. It's where both neighbors are going to have a fence with good sight. It also creates good wind flow," Williams says.
One of the nicest features of the shadow box fence is you always have easy access to your neighbors.
"You can speak to your neighbor through the spacing. And it won't block the wind like in a privacy fence," Williams says.
Shadow box fences don't necessarily have to be made out of wood. Williams says you can create one out of brick or concrete; however, with these types of materials you won't get as much airflow.
If you decide a picket fence is for you, then Williams suggests getting one that is made out of cedar. He also suggests getting a professional to do it, because you still have to dig posts and use concrete.
According to the website, Extreme How-To, another important factor to think about is matching the shadow box to your home and yard. Wood panels for picket fences come in several styles and colors. The more the fence adds to the home, the more your property will go up in value.
If you decide to build your own picket fence, Extreme How-To and Williams stress the proper installation. Wood posts on fences don't do too good with dirt and grass. If your posts are not properly installed, your fence can tilt and eventually fall. You may want to use steel posts to build your fence. Use woods such as cedar, as they tend to rot less. Also, buy hot-dip-galvanized, aluminum and stainless steel fasteners. They are less corrosive.
The versatility of a wooden shadow box exceeds those made of concrete or brick. You can always paint it to get a different look. Also, if you ever decide to repaint the color of your home, you can always repaint your picket fence to match.
Shadow boxes won't cost you as much as a typical privacy or chain-link fence. Williams says the best advice he can give is, do your research and find the best deals. In the end, don't compromise quality over money. If you have to save up a little to get quality materials, Williams suggests waiting. After all, if you're going to spend a good amount of cash on a fence, you might as well do it right.
