Fence Glossary
Fences are an integral part of many properties, both commercial and residential. They are used to provide privacy, security, and even decoration. In addition, different types of fences bring unique benefits to the property. To make sure that you choose the right fence for your needs, it is important to know the basics of fencing terminology. Here is a glossary of terms related to fences:
Post – a vertical support for the fence.
Rail – a horizontal member of the fence that connects the posts
Pickets – vertical members of the fence, often spaced evenly along the rails
Gate – a moveable section of the fence, used for entry and exit
Latch – a device used to keep the gate closed
Hinge – a mechanical joint that allows the gate to swing open and closed
Fence line – the border or edge of the fenced area
Property line – the boundary separating one piece of property from another
Height – the distance from the ground to the top of the fence
Grade – the slope of the land
Fence posts – posts that support the fence
Concrete – a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate used to secure fence posts in place
Gravel – small, loose stones used as a base for fence posts
Brace – a diagonal member of the fence used to provide stability
Strainer – a horizontal member of the fence used to anchor the fence to a post
Stay – a vertical member of the fence used to maintain the proper spacing between fence posts
Stringer – a horizontal member of the fence used to connect the fence posts
Fence panel – a pre-assembled section of the fence, often made of wood or vinyl
Gate post – a fence post that supports a gate
Corner post – a fence post located at a corner of the fenced area.
Fence footer – the foundation for a fence, often made of concrete
Fence gate hardware – the various parts used to hang and operate a gate, such as hinges, latches, and handles
Fence post caps – decorative tops for fence posts, often made of wood, vinyl, or metal
Fence post brackets – devices used to attach fence rails to posts
Fence post driver – a tool used to install fence posts
Fence post hole digger – a tool used to dig holes for fence posts
Fence post puller – a tool used to remove fence posts
Fence post repair – the process of fixing or replacing damaged fence posts
Fence post spacing – the distance between fence posts
Fence stretcher – a tool used to tighten or repair a fence
Fence ties – devices used to attach pickets to rails
Privacy fence – a fence designed to provide privacy
Security fence – a fence designed to provide security
Split rail fence – a fence made of wooden rails that are split lengthwise
Stockade fence – a fence made of closely spaced pickets, often used for security
Vinyl fence – a fence made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
Wood fence – a fence made of wood.
Chain link fence – a fence made of interconnected metal wires
Decorative fence – a fence that is primarily used for aesthetics rather than function
Electric fence – a fence that delivers a shock to animals or people who come into contact with it
Farm fence – a fence used to contain farm animals
Field fence – a type of farm fence used to enclose large areas
Picket fence – a fence made of evenly spaced pickets, often used for decorative purposes
Pool fence – a fence used to enclose a pool for safety reasons
Ranch fence – a type of farm fence used to enclose large areas
Shadowbox fence – a fence made of alternating pickets on either side of the rails, allowing for partial visibility through the fence
Woven wire fence – a fence made of interwoven wires
Yard fence – a fence that encloses a yard.