Racked Or Stepped Fencing: Dealing With Slopes

Fencing can pose a challenge when your ground isn't level. If you live on a slope or simply have a hilly property with multiple ups and downs, you have to decide how you want to tackle the issue. The following guide can help you better understand the options so you can make the choice that works best for your needs and design aesthetic.

Option #1: Stepped panel fencing

Stepped panel fencing consist of using premade fencing panels, usually of vinyl or wood, although wrought-iron is also an option. Installation of the first panel is in the lowest point, with the bottom of the panel set to clear the highest point in this low point. Then, each neighboring panel is installed, maintaining the same distance between the bottom fence rail and the highest point of the section where the particular panel is being installed. This results in a stepped look along the top rails of the fence, and uneven gap along the bottom.

Dealing with challenges: This option may not be the best choice if you have a dog or children that you don't want climbing under the fence, unless you also install curbing or a short block wall in the gap to prevent animals or people from crawling underneath. For aesthetic purposes, low shrubbery or bushy plants are often grown to line the fence so the gap isn't readily visible.

Option #2: Racked fencing

Rack fencing doesn't use premade panels. Instead, individual pickets are used and the panels are constructed to fit the site. Chainlink can also be installed as racked fencing. During installation, the fence posts are installed first so that each post is the same height from the ground level to the top and spaced at an equal distance apart. Then, the top and bottom rails are installed so that each end connects to a post at the same distance from the ground. Finally, the individual pickets are placed on the rails. The result in a fence that follows the curve of the land, although the tops of the pickets may not be even.

Dealing with challenges: The main challenge with this fencing style is that it takes more time, and thus more experience and expense, to have the fence custom built to suit the land. It is usually the best choice, though, if a bottom gap is unacceptable due to pet or child safety.

For more help, contact a fencing installation contractor in your area. They can take a look at your property and help you find the best fencing choice for you.