Fencing by Wall
Reliable, Elegant and Built for Durability
Stylish, and Built to Last Wood Fence Solutions
a fence that looks authentic
Why Homeowners Choose Decorative Wood Fencing
Wood has been a common fencing material for over a century, and for good reason. It’s natural, versatile, and able to be shaped into nearly any style from a charming front yard picket fence to a tall, fully enclosed privacy structure in the backyard. Wood also offers something vinyl and aluminum can’t always match, warmth and character.
For homeowners in the Chicago area, decorative wood fencing is a strong choice for a few reasons:Wood complements brick, stone, and siding in ways synthetic materials often can't. It blends into landscaping and adds a sense of permanence and craftsmanship to a yard.
Wood can be cut, shaped, stained, and painted to match virtually any design preference, from contemporary horizontal fence styles to traditional dog ear fence picket designs.
A clean, well-built wood fence is one of the most effective ways to improve the overall appearance of your home and enhance property value.
Unlike some fencing materials, wood is easy to repair section by section, making it a practical long-term choice.
High quality fencing
Choosing the Right Decorative Wood Fence for Your Home
With several styles to choose from, it helps to think through your goals before selecting a design. Our team walks you through all of these considerations during the initial consultation, so you can make a confident, informed decision before a single board goes in the ground. Here are a few questions to guide your decision:
a range of wood fencing styles
Decorative Wood Fence Styles We Install
The horizontal fence has become one of the most popular wood fence styles for homeowners looking for a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Instead of vertical boards, planks run side to side, creating a sleek, linear look that pairs especially well with modern or mid-century homes.
Beyond its visual appeal, a horizontal fence works well in yards where you want the fence itself to be a design element rather than just a boundary. It works beautifully along patios, pool areas, and outdoor entertaining spaces, and can be built at a range of heights depending on your privacy needs.
Horizontal fences do require proper post placement and material selection to ensure long-term stability. Our team has the experience to install them correctly so they stay straight, level, and structurally sound over time.A shadow box fence is one of the most sought-after styles for homeowners who want privacy without the look of a completely closed-off barrier. Alternating boards are placed on opposite sides of the fence rail, creating a staggered pattern that allows airflow and subtle visibility while still providing functional privacy.
This style is particularly popular for shared property lines and backyard fences where neighbors on both sides want a finished, attractive look rather than staring at the back side of a standard fence. The shadow box design is symmetrical, and it looks just as clean from your neighbor's yard as it does from yours.
Shadow box fences are a great choice for families who want an open, airy backyard feel while still maintaining a defined, private space.A stockade fence is the standard choice when full privacy is the top priority. Built with tightly spaced vertical boards cut to a pointed or flat top, a stockade fence creates a solid, continuous barrier with no gaps between panels.
This style is commonly used for:
- Fully enclosed backyards for children and pets
- Properties that back up to busy roads or sidewalks
- Homes where privacy from neighbors is a priority
- Yards with pools or outdoor living areas that benefit from a screened-off feel
The dog ear fence picket is one of the most classic wood fence styles in residential neighborhoods. Named for the distinctive clipped corners at the top of each picket, this fence has a timeless, traditional look that complements a wide range of home styles, from craftsman bungalows to colonial and cape cod designs.
Dog ear fences are typically used for:
- Backyard privacy fencing at standard heights (4–6 feet)
- Side yard dividers between neighboring properties
- Defining yard boundaries with a finished, classic appearance
Few things are as iconic in residential landscaping as a traditional picket fence. With evenly spaced, pointed vertical boards and a lower height, a picket fence is primarily used to define the front yard and create an inviting, polished boundary without blocking the view of your home.
Picket fences work well for homeowners who want to enhance curb appeal, frame landscaping, or create a decorative border around a flower bed or garden. While not built for full privacy, a well-maintained picket fence makes a strong visual statement and adds real charm to a property's exterior.Get a Free Decorative Wood Fence Estimate
If you're ready to add a wood fence to your property, whether it's a horizontal fence along your patio, a full stockade fence for the backyard, or a classic dog ear picket style for the front yard, we're here to help.
We'll visit your property, review your layout, and help you choose the style and configuration that best fits your home and goals. The estimate is free, the advice is honest, and the work gets done right.
What to Expect:
- A personalized site visit to assess your property and goals
- Expert advice on materials, styles, and features
- A clear, detailed recommendation and estimate tailored to your budget
- Friendly, professional service from a trusted fence company
Let's Begin Now
Request your free estimate today or call us at (312) 882-5094 to speak with our team. We serve homeowners throughout the Chicago area, including Arlington Heights, Evanston, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Northbrook, Skokie, Wilmette, Winnetka, and surrounding communities.
careful planning and clear communication
Our Wood Fence Installation Process
From the first conversation to the final walkthrough, we keep the process simple and transparent.
We visit your property to assess the layout, take measurements, evaluate grades or slopes, and understand your goals. This is where we get a clear picture of what your yard needs and what style will look best.
We guide you through your wood fence options, horizontal fence, shadow box, stockade, dog ear picket, or traditional picket, and help you choose a height, board configuration, and finish that fits your home and budget.
Our crew handles every detail with care, from setting posts at the right depth to ensuring consistent board spacing and clean, level lines throughout the entire fence run.
Before we pack up, we walk the finished fence with you to make sure everything meets your expectations. We check alignment, gate operation, and overall finish so you can feel confident in the result.
a fencing company you can trust
Why Choose Fencing By Wall
We know the neighborhoods, the HOAs, the weather, and the kinds of fences that hold up well over time in this area. When you work with us, you get straightforward advice, quality materials, and a team that shows up and does the job right.
Have a question?
Decorative Wood Fence FAQs
What is the most popular decorative wood fence style?
The shadow box fence and dog ear fence picket are two of the most commonly requested styles for residential properties. Shadow box fences are popular for their privacy and dual-sided appearance, while dog ear fences are a classic, cost-effective choice for backyards and side yards. Horizontal fences are increasingly popular for homeowners looking for a more modern aesthetic.
How long does a wood fence last?
With proper installation and regular maintenance, including periodic staining or sealing, a wood fence can last 15–20 years or more. The longevity depends on the type of wood used, how well the fence is finished, and how consistently it's maintained over time.
Do I need a permit to install a wood fence in the Chicagoland area?
Permit requirements vary by municipality and HOA. Many communities throughout the Chicago area have specific rules about fence height, placement, and style. Our team is familiar with local regulations and will help ensure your project is compliant from the start.
What's the difference between a shadow box fence and a stockade fence?
A stockade fence uses tightly spaced boards installed side by side with no gaps, providing complete privacy. A shadow box fence alternates boards on opposite sides of the rail, creating a staggered pattern that allows airflow and some light while still providing strong privacy. Shadow box fences look finished from both sides, which is a key advantage on shared property lines.
Can I stain or paint my wood fence?
Yes. Wood fences can be stained, painted, or sealed to match your home's exterior or landscaping. Staining and sealing are especially important for protecting wood from moisture and UV exposure in the Chicago climate. We can advise you on finish options during your consultation.
Do you install gates with decorative wood fences?
Yes. We design and install matching wood gates as part of any fence project, including single walk-through gates, double gates for driveways, and gate automation options for added convenience and security.