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Turning a garden or patio into your own little haven begins with building the right space from the walls in. Whether you're dealing with nosy neighbors or an escape artist pup, the right fence keeps pets in and snoops out — without sacrificing on decor, of course.
Wood, wire, vinyl, or stone, these options provide security, privacy, and aesthetics to your backyard, so you can focus on all the outdoor fun you've got planned this spring and summer. Next on the agenda: Soaking up all the sunshine.
Classic Picket Fence
It's hard to beat the charm of a fresh, white fence (with tons of flower beds, of course). Low-cost vinyl versions never require painting or staining, either.
Prefab Panel
Ready-to-install sections from home improvement stores come in a wide variety of styles, patterns, and colors. Home Depot recommends using the type of wood most popular in your region: Southern yellow pine in the Northeast, South, and Midwest; redwood in the Southwest; and cedar in the Pacific Northwest.
Horizontal Planks
This super-simple style looks clean and modern — plus you can go as high as you want.
Vertical Garden Wall
If you have the right climate for it, your backyard boundary can double as extra growing space.
Wire Over Wood
Covering a classic four-rail fence with wire mesh is a cost-effective way to keep dogs in (and unwanted animals out).
Pergola Fence
Widely spaced posts double as a trellis for climbing vines — whether you're planting roses or beans.
RELATED: Why You Should Always Plant Flowers in Your Vegetable Patch
Scalloped Top
Your average wood fence can look a little more unique if you're handy with a jigsaw.
Spaced-Out Design
We like how the gaps in this two-sided fence make it seem more like a wall.
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Composite Panel
Composite fences use a mix of resin or plastic with wood, meaning you can find more decorative options. A leafy, modern pattern can upgrade even the plainest patio.
Gabion Wall
From the Italian word "gabbione," meaning big cage, these mesh-enclosed structures cost way less than mortared stone walls because construction is less labor-intensive.
Wood and Aluminum
While traditional metal fences don't offer much in terms of privacy, a combo of materials can help block prying eyes. Standard 1-inch deck boards slip into the metal channels provided by this fence kit.
Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism and dreams of the day Northwestern will go back to the Rose Bowl.
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