20 Stunning Horizontal Fence Ideas to Transform Your Yard

Be inspired by these 20 styles of horizontal fences! Find out which design works best for your next home improvement project to transform your yard with a new fence.
Renee Lewis
Renee Lewis
/
Updated on:
April 2, 2025

Get ready to learn all about horizontal fence styles and find just the right design to highlight your outdoor living space. From rustic to modern, from metal to wood to vinyl, check out these 20 incredible horizontal fence ideas.

1. Horizontal Cedar Privacy Boards with Natural Finish

Horizontal privacy fences are  are made up of horizontal boards that have no spaces in between them. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and weather, making it a long-lasting material for outdoor use.

Horizontal privacy fence

2. Stepped Horizontal Wood Fence

When your property is on a hill, a stepped horizontal wood fence is a stylish solution. With a stepped horizontal wood fence, the same number of fence panels are stacked on top of each other creating the same height for the entire fence. Because the ground is uneven, this creates a step effect.

Stepped horizontal wood fence

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3. Horizontal Vinyl Fence

Vinyl is quickly becoming one of the top materials used in horizontal fences - and for good reason. Vinyl fences are long-lasting and require very little maintenance. A horizontal vinyl fence uses horizontal boards that are made of vinyl. These can come in various styles, but one creative idea is a patio fence with small spaces between the boards.

Horizontal vinyl fence


4. Contemporary Horizontal Fence

These fences go well with homes that have a modern style. A great example of a contemporary horizontal fence is one that is made of cedar horizontal boards along with a black aluminum border either as the top rail or as the fence posts.

Contemporary horizontal fence


5. Horizontal Aluminum Fence

A horizontal fence made of aluminum is a great choice because the material is rust and weather resistant compared to wood. We often recommend this style to homeowners are seeking a modern, low-maintenance, and durable fencing solution.

Horizontal Aluminum Fence


6. Horizontal Cedar Fence

If you are looking to put in a fence in your front yard, a horizontal cedar fence is a great option. Because front yard fences are lower than backyard, the goal of the fence should be to keep small children and pets inside or to mark the property rather than privacy.

Horizontal cedar fence


7. Horizontal Garden Fence

For more of a rustic look, consider a horizontal garden fence made of wooden panels. This is a fantastic option is a wooden fence made of horizontal slats that can highlight your outdoor space and the plants and flowers you are growing out there.

Horizontal garden fence


8. Horizontal Aluminum Fence with Powder Coat Finish

Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and highly durable, making it ideal for areas with harsh weather conditions. The powder coat finish provides an additional layer of protection, offering resistance to fading, scratching, and corrosion. This combination of aluminum and powder coating results in a low-maintenance, long-lasting fence.

Horizontal fence with powder coat finishing

9. Woven Wood Fence

A woven wood fence, also known as a basket weave fence, is another rustic looking horizontal fence idea. With a woven wood fence, the horizontal slats are woven behind and in front of the evenly spaced fence posts. It is a creative fence style that offers some, but not complete, privacy.

Woven wood fence


10. Louvered Horizontal Fence

Like a woven wood fence, it is possible to see through this fence so it is not considered a privacy fence, but it does create a more private space while allowing you to see outside of your yard as well if you wanted.

11. Horizontal Douglas Fir Fence with Semi-Transparent Stain

Adding a semi-transparent stain to a Douglas Fir fence enhances the natural beauty of the wood by allowing the grain to show through while offering protection against the elements. This type of stain helps prevent moisture penetration, UV damage, and wood discoloration, extending the fence’s lifespan.

Douglas Fir fence with Semi transparent stain
Image credit: Fence All


12. Shadow Box Horizontal Fence

Just like the previous couple examples, a shadow box horizontal fence offers some privacy while still allowing you to see through it when you really want to. With this fence style, each horizontal panel is alternated from being in front and behind the fence posts. When you look at it straight on it offers complete privacy.


13. DIY Wooden Pallet Fence

Wooden pallets are a great material to make a horizontal slat fence out of - especially a shorter dog or pet area fence. These work great because they are low cost yet very durable. They are entire panels of horizontal fences ready to go for your next DIY fence project!

DIY pallet fence


14. Horizontal Reed Fence

This style of horizontal board fences has a simple and modern look to it. Instead of wide horizontal boards either placed closely together or spaced out, a reed fence is made of narrow horizontal boards. The narrow reeds are spaced out evenly leaving some ability to see through to the other side of the fence.


15. Black Horizontal Fence

This horizontal fence design is a great idea for homeowners that have a more contemporary style. The fence can be a metal fence made from aluminum. These are lightweight and durable in all kinds of weather. Or your black horizontal fence can be made of black painted vinyl or high quality wood like redwood or cedar. This is also a good option for a composite fence style!

16. Painted Horizontal Pine Fence Panels

Pine wood, when painted, not only enhances the fence’s visual appeal but also provides protection against the elements, ensuring durability and longevity. Whether you opt for a bold color or a more subtle neutral tone, a painted horizontal pine fence is a stylish and low-maintenance choice that complements a variety of home styles.

Painted horizontal pine fence panels
Image credit: Contemporary Fencing

17. Dark Stained Horizontal Mahogany Fence

The horizontal panels highlight the natural grain of the mahogany wood, creating a sleek, modern look while adding warmth and texture to your outdoor space.

Dark stained horizontal mahogany fence
Image credit: Viking Fence

18. Modern Horizontal Composite Fence Panels

Unlike traditional wood fences, composite fences are resistant to weather, fading, and pests, offering a low-maintenance solution that requires little upkeep. Available in a variety of colors and textures, this style provides a modern, eco-friendly alternative.

Modern horizontal composite fence panels
Image credit: Nature's Composites

19. Horizontal Oak Boards with Whitewash Finish

Whitewash finish provides a semi-transparent layer that allows the natural grain of the oak to remain visible while adding a protective coating. This finish helps to protect the wood from UV damage, moisture, and weathering, extending the fence’s lifespan.

Horizontal oak boards with whitewash finish
Image credit: Slated Screen Fencing

20. Horizontal Recycled Plastic Slats with Matte Finish

This fence type features slats made from recycled plastic materials, installed in a horizontal orientation for a modern, sleek appearance. The matte finish offers a smooth, understated look while minimizing glare.

Horizontal recycled plastic panels with matte finish
Image credit: Fencingandgate.com

Benefits of a Horizontal Fence

Beyond its visual appeal, horizontal fences provide excellent security for your property while maintaining a clean and cohesive appearance. They are also highly customizable, allowing for variations in board width, wood type, and stains to match your home's style. Additionally, horizontal fences are durable and can withstand the elements when constructed with high-quality materials. Whether you're looking for a fence that stands out or one that seamlessly blends with your landscaping, a horizontal fence is a practical and attractive choice for modern living.

Should You Choose a Horizontal Fence or Vertical Fence?

When deciding between a horizontal or vertical fence, consider both aesthetic and functional factors. Vertical fences are the traditional choice, offering a classic look that provides privacy and security. They are great for creating a solid, more enclosed feel. Horizontal fences are becoming increasingly popular for modern designs, offering a sleek, contemporary look with horizontal slats that can create a more open, airy feel. Horizontal fences can also give the illusion of a wider space, making them ideal for smaller yards. Ultimately, the decision should reflect your style preference and the level of privacy you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall can a horizontal fence be?

The height of a horizontal fence typically depends on local zoning laws and your specific needs. Most residential fences range from 4 to 8 feet tall, with taller fences providing more privacy.

Is a horizontal fence more expensive than a vertical fence?

Horizontal fences can sometimes be more expensive than traditional vertical fences due to the materials, construction techniques, and labor involved. However, their durability and aesthetic appeal can make them a worthwhile investment.

How long does a horizontal fence last?

The lifespan of a horizontal fence depends on the material used and maintenance. Wooden fences can last 10–20 years with proper care, while composite, vinyl, and metal fences may last 25 years or more.

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