At Tomball Fence, we believe a well-informed customer makes the best decisions. Whether you're planning a new installation or comparing fence styles, this glossary of common fencing terms will help you understand the materials, techniques, and components involved in your project.
A lightweight, rust-resistant fencing material made from powder-coated aluminum. Aluminum fencing mimics the look of wrought iron but requires less maintenance and won’t corrode. Commonly used for decorative borders, pool enclosures, and gated communities.
A style of wood privacy fence where vertical boards are staggered on both sides of the rails, overlapping each other. This creates full coverage and eliminates gaps even as the wood shrinks or expands. Offers a clean, finished look on both sides—popular in neighborhoods and shared property lines.
A cost-effective and durable fencing option made from interwoven galvanized or vinyl-coated steel wire. Chain link fencing is ideal for residential yards, dog runs, schools, commercial properties, and perimeter security. It's available in multiple heights and colors.
A corner post is installed where two sections of fence meet at an angle, typically 90 degrees. It serves as a connection point for the rails or panels coming from two directions and plays an important role in maintaining alignment and stability at fence turns.
A wide gate designed to allow vehicle access to a driveway or private road. Drive gates can swing open or slide and are often paired with access controls or openers for added convenience.
A cap that sits on top of fence posts, often decorative but also functional. It protects wooden posts from absorbing water and reduces the risk of rot, warping, or splitting over time. Available in various materials and styles (flat, pyramid, solar-lit, etc.).
A pre-assembled section of fencing made up of pickets attached to horizontal rails. Fence panels make installation faster and help maintain consistency across large runs. Common in wood and vinyl systems.
The vertical structural support for a fence. Posts are usually made of wood, metal, or vinyl and are set in concrete below ground level. They anchor the fence panels or rails and determine the fence’s strength and stability.
The mechanism used to secure a gate in the closed position. Latches range from simple thumb latches to lockable or self-closing models. Choosing the right latch ensures ease of use, safety, and security.
Posts placed at regular intervals along a straight section of fence. Line posts support the fence between terminal (end or corner) posts. The distance between line posts typically ranges from 6 to 10 feet, depending on the fence type.
The vertical boards attached to the rails in wood and vinyl fencing. Pickets can be flat-topped, dog-eared, pointed, or custom cut. They form the face of the fence and determine privacy level and appearance.
A solid fence style designed to block visibility and provide maximum seclusion. Typically 6 feet tall or higher, using tightly spaced pickets or panels. Available in wood, vinyl, and composite materials.
The horizontal members of a fence that connect the posts and hold the pickets or mesh in place. Most wood fences have two or three rails: top, middle, and bottom. Rail thickness and placement affect strength and durability.
A semi-private wood fence design where pickets are alternated on each side of the rail, creating a layered look. This provides airflow and a more balanced appearance from both sides, making it ideal for shared property lines.
A rustic, open-style fence made with horizontal rails inserted into notched posts. Traditionally used for marking property lines or containing livestock, it’s also popular in residential and rural settings for its natural, classic look.
A heavy-duty, highly secure fencing option made from galvanized or powder-coated steel. Offers a similar appearance to wrought iron but with greater strength. Common in industrial, commercial, and high-security applications.
An end, corner, or gate post in a chain link fence system that anchors the tensioned wire mesh. These posts are stronger than line posts and serve as structural supports at transitions or openings in the fence line.
A synthetic fencing material made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Vinyl fences resist moisture, UV rays, pests, and rot. Available in privacy, picket, and rail styles. It’s a popular, low-maintenance alternative to wood.
A decorative and durable metal fence made from welded iron or steel. Wrought iron fences are strong, elegant, and often used for upscale homes, gates, driveways, and security fencing. Typically powder-coated to resist rust.
Understanding fence terms can help you choose the right solution for your property. If you're unsure which type of fence or material is best for your home or business, Tomball Fence is here to help.
📍 Serving Tomball, Spring, Cypress, The Woodlands, and Magnolia, TX
📞 Call: (281)790-1155
📧 Email: info@tomballfence.com
🌐 Website: www.TomballFence.com
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