Your backyard is personal. It's where you want privacy without feeling boxed in, where your kids or dogs can move freely, and where the space should feel calm, comfortable, and yours. The fence you choose plays a quiet but important role in all of that.
A wood fence gives you control over how your backyard feels and functions. You can close it off completely, soften the boundary, or strike a balance between privacy and openness. In Mobile, Alabama, homeowners continue to choose wood fencing because it adapts to how you use your space, not the other way around.
At Major League Fence, we're here to make finding the perfect style easy, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the outdoors your way.
Why Finding the Right Style Matters
The right wood fence style supports your routines, your layout, and your long-term plans for the property. Below are the wood fence styles that work especially well for backyards, along with why each one fits different priorities.
While a classic dog-ear wood fence might be a great option for some, other homeowners want greater visibility, a more modern look, or more customization. Don't worry; our team has a complete list of fence styles and plenty of options to help you explore all the possibilities.
Top Wood Fence Styles for Backyards
These are a few of the top options we sell that homeowners love in Mobile and the surrounding area.
Privacy
The classic wood privacy fence is a hallmark in wood fencing thanks to its smooth finish and full coverage. You can easily stain the fence to customize its color to suit your property. This fence is ideal when you want no one to be able to see into your yard, so you can create the ultimate secluded retreat for you and your family.
Board on Board
Board on board wood fences give you 100% privacy thanks to overlapping boards. One thing to note is that board on board wood fencing does require additional care to prevent moisture damage, as its construction can increase the risk of mold in humid areas.
Shadowbox
The shadowbox style offers semi-privacy, perfect for giving you personal space while still allowing some natural light and good airflow. It's visually appealing on both sides, making it a "good neighbor fence" and a great way to boost curb appeal all around. Alternating pickets help evenly distribute weight, which can help extend the fence's lifespan. Shadowbox fences can be installed with pickets laid vertically or horizontally.
Herringbone
For a modern and artistic touch to your fence, the herringbone wood fence design is a showstopper. Its fully private panels are formed by cutting pickets at 45-degree angles and placing them in a V shape. Their unique style offers coverage, protection, and unique curb appeal that can help your property make a statement.
How to Choose the Right Wood Fence Style for Your Backyard
Choosing the right wood fence style comes down to how much privacy you want, how much maintenance you're comfortable with, and how the fence fits your property and neighborhood.
Determine Privacy Levels
If you want your backyard fully screened from neighbors, solid styles like board-on-board or stockade make sense. If you prefer some airflow and a lighter feel, shadowbox fencing provides separation without completely closing off the space. For open yards where visibility matters, post and rail or picket fencing may be an excellent option.
Think About Long-Term Costs
Some wood fence styles use more material and labor, which affects initial cost. More open designs typically cost less upfront, while full-privacy fences require more lumber and installation time. Over the life of the fence, maintenance is also important. Staining, sealing, and occasional repairs should factor into your decision.
Prepare for Maintenance Needs
Wood fencing needs attention over time, especially in Mobile's humidity. Designs with tight board spacing can hold moisture longer, which means proper installation and routine care matter more. If you want the look of wood but prefer fewer maintenance demands, your fence contractor can help you choose a design that balances appearance with durability.
Understand Potential Risks
Solid privacy fences offer complete separation from the outside world, but they also catch more wind gusts. In exposed yards, proper post depth and spacing are critical to prevent leaning or movement.
Horizontal fences require precise spacing to avoid sections sagging over time. Choosing the right style means matching the design to your yard's conditions, not just the look you like.
Check HOA Rules Before You Commit
If your home is part of a homeowners' association in Mobile, it's important you become familiar with fence height, style, and placement rules.
Some HOAs can prohibit full-privacy fencing in front or side yards and they might have a list of preapproved fence designs that you are able to install without prior approval from the board. Verifying these rules early can save you time and prevent costly changes later.
Explore Wood Fence Styles Now
You can explore wood fences on our site, then get a free instant quote that allows you to compare styles and costs for your unique property.
Major League Fence is always here to offer guidance when it comes to finding the right fence. Call us at (251) 680-9397 or contact the team today to speak with a local expert who can make sure your wood fence becomes a beloved home feature.