8 Privacy Fence Ideas for Yards of All Sizes

Metal Privacy Fence

Corrugated metal is not only a cost-effective privacy fence idea but also more durable and easy to care for than wood. The material is rot-, rust-, and mold-resistant, making upkeep minimal. And because it doesn't have slats, sheet metal provides an abundance of privacy. It also works well for hanging planter boxes or outdoor wall accents.

Metal adds a modern, industrial touch to your yard. Its reflective nature is great for nearby plants that like a lot of light. That reflective quality also means you might need sunglasses on a sunny day. Metal can also get hot to the touch in warm weather. However, using metal is a low-maintenance fence solution that lasts decades.

Traditional White Fence

Get all the charm of a traditional picket fence by opting for a white wood or vinyl plank privacy fence idea with no gaps. Lattice detailing at the top of this privacy fence adds an elegant touch that will never go out of style. Thanks to cohesive matte black railing and post cap details, the fence blends seamlessly with the rest of the house. The gate's location at the driveway makes it easy to access the outdoor area, especially if you're entertaining and don't want people coming through the house.

High Wood Fence

There's a lot to love about this small backyard oasis, including the high fence that keeps it private. There are no gaps in the slats, so neighbors, traffic, and anything else outside the fence are out of sight. A light wood stain keeps the outdoor area airy and bright. Building a DIY privacy fence designed to be extra tall may require a permit and installation of additional support beams.

Trellis Fence

This privacy fence idea features no space between slats, which works especially well if the back of the fence faces toward a wooded area or somewhere infrequently viewed, as the back will need support panels. Adding a trellis to a fence is a great way to let in light and add style to the overall look. It's also the perfect place for displaying vining plants, like these purple clematis.

Mixed Materials

Mix and match privacy fence materials to create a custom look that works with your yard. In this space, a wood fence with horizontal slats adds a modern edge to a nearby bamboo privacy fence. While a smaller outdoor space, every aspect is thoughtful. The living fence wall allows light and air to circulate, while the surfboards and storage shed allow for functional privacy. If your fence isn't quite as private as you'd like, consider adding bamboo or other tall plants for additional coverage.

Living Green Wall

An array of lush tropical plants is a privacy fence idea that cleverly helps the wall transition into the home's brick exterior. Horizontal wood slats offer a modern look, and dark stain cohesively blends with the gravel. The wall of live plants adds color to the patio, which lacks a grass lawn. It also provides a focal point while infusing the largely neutral space with warmth and earthiness. Look for wall-planter hooks at most hardware stores and screw into wood fences.

Lattice Fence

If you have an outdoor kitchen, keep it private yet elegant with a lattice-topped privacy fence. This design features solid paneling at the base to conceal the yard and lattice at the top to expand the small backyard visually. The stylish privacy fence idea gives the outdoor space the cozy feel of a room, especially when paired with a pergola. Decorative plates mounted on the classic white fence give it even more charm, and the lattice top softens the look while allowing for vining plants.

Hidden Fence Door

A changing area, outdoor shower, or shed where valuables are kept requires as much privacy and security as possible. This wood fence features a sliding barn door that can be pulled closed to block views while blending in with the surrounding fence. Installed with small gaps between boards, this privacy fence lets light into the backyard while keeping the area secluded. Adding hooks to the fence further maximizes space and storage.