Split-Rail Fence

A fence is a structure made of wood or concrete, meant to prevent movement across a demarcated boundary. It can be been built to restrict stray animals from coming inside the land, or to restrict domesticated animals from going out. Over the years, fencing has come a long way from just a protective structure, to a designer-fencing method that enhances the beauty of the area. One of the most commonly seen method of fencing is split rail fencing, made of wooden rails, and generally piled one upon another.

The split-rail fence is a fence made of timber logs which is lengthwise split into rails. This type of fencing is mostly seen on agricultural lands, and more recently in modern homes as decorative fencing. As these fences require more wood as compared to other fencing techniques, they are not so common in regions facing scarcity of wood. The biggest advantage of split-rail fencing is that it's easy to construct, and doesn't require hardware like nails. It is also easy to dismantle it partially or totally. The durability of a split-rail fence makes it a commonly-used fencing technique today.

If you are planning to install a split rail fence on your property, then start with marking your boundaries. In an awkward situation, you may end up installing a fence on your neighbor's property, and will have to start all over again. If your local administration seeks a permit for construction of such fences, then make sure you have it ready before starting the construction work. To construct a split rail fence, the logs are cut to a length of 10 to 12 feet and split into parts. These halves are further cut to make rails of a usable size. Then, these rails are stacked one over another interlocking them into a zigzag fashion, which automatically provides the support. In yet another technique of split rail fencing, vertical posts are erected, and these rails are directly stacked one above the other on these vertical posts, thus securing it with a fence post on either side.

Earlier, American chestnut wood was extensively used to create such fences, which continued until a disease called 'chestnut blight' eliminated the tree completely. Today, mostly cedar wood is used to construct wooden split rail fences. Rail fences made of recycled plastic and vinyl are also used by people who want to customize their fence with a particular color. The advantage of using such split rail fences is that these lightweight fences are relatively more durable, and hence easier to maintain.

Most often, split rail fencing is preferred by the owners of vast land areas, as these relatively inexpensive wooden fences add to the grace of the landscape, and simultaneously acts as a protective wall demarcating the property. It is one of the easiest method of fencing owing to its simple design and limited required material. Though, the more area you cover the more hard work you will have yo put in, it is safe method which will keep your hands protected from cuts, and does not require the long list of materials you would require for other fencing techniques. More importantly, the end result will be a beautiful landscape on your property.

The best thing about split rail fencing is that it complements a countryside farmhouse as well as it complements a suburban house. So if you are thinking about fencing your land, you can try this fence design technique. A split rail fence won't just protect your land, but will add to its attractiveness as well.