Modern & Horizontal Fence
Modern Horizontal Fence Installation in Tacoma & South Sound
Horizontal fence boards instead of vertical. Same privacy, different look. Our team builds modern-style fences with horizontal cedar planks, steel or wood posts, and clean lines that match newer homes and updated yards. The boards run side to side with consistent spacing, and every post is set in concrete below the frost line.
What makes a horizontal fence different
Same materials, different orientation, different vibe.
- Board direction: boards run horizontally between posts instead of vertically. Creates a modern, linear look that pairs well with contemporary homes.
- Post style: horizontal fences often use steel posts or thicker wood posts because the boards attach differently. Posts need to handle lateral load from the horizontal spans.
- Spacing options: tight boards for full privacy, spaced boards for a semi-private look with airflow. Some homeowners alternate board widths for a custom pattern.
- Cedar is standard: our team uses cedar for horizontal builds because it resists rot, takes stain well, and weathers to a natural gray if left untreated.
- Height: standard 6-foot height for privacy. Custom heights available depending on the property line and local code.
How the build works
The process from layout to finished fence.
Property line layout and post locations
Mark the fence line, locate property pins if needed, and set post spacing. Horizontal fences usually need posts closer together (6 feet on center) to prevent board sag.
Set posts in concrete
Dig post holes below the frost line, plumb each post, and pour concrete footings. Posts need to cure before attaching boards.
Attach horizontal boards
Cedar boards get screwed to the posts with consistent spacing. The crew works from the bottom up, checking level on every board.
Trim, cap, and finish
Top caps go on the posts, end boards get trimmed, and any gates get hung and adjusted. Stain or sealer applied if the homeowner wants it.
Horizontal vs. vertical
How to decide which style fits your yard.
Go horizontal if:
- Your home has a modern or contemporary look
- You want clean, linear lines along the fence
- The fence faces a street or is a main visual feature of the yard
- You like the look of natural cedar grain running lengthwise
Stick with vertical if:
- Budget is the main factor (vertical is slightly cheaper due to post spacing)
- Your yard has a lot of grade changes (vertical boards handle slopes more easily)
- You prefer a traditional neighborhood look
- The fence is on a side or back property line where appearance matters less
Common questions
Modern Fence FAQ
Does a horizontal fence cost more than vertical?
Slightly. Posts are set closer together (6 feet vs. 8 feet on center) which adds a few more posts and concrete footings per run. Board material cost is about the same. Overall expect 10-15% more than a comparable vertical cedar fence.
Do horizontal boards sag over time?
Not if the posts are spaced correctly. At 6 feet on center with proper fasteners, cedar boards hold straight. Wider spans can sag, which is why post spacing matters more on horizontal builds.
Can you add a gate to a horizontal fence?
Yes. Gates are built to match the fence with the same horizontal board pattern. A steel frame inside the gate prevents sagging and keeps it swinging true. Single and double gates both work with horizontal builds.
What about staining or sealing?
Cedar can be left natural and it will weather to a silver-gray over a few years. If you want to keep the warm cedar tone, a semi-transparent stain or clear sealer applied every 2-3 years does the job.
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