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People erect fences for various reasons, for security, privacy, to define boundary lines, or to screen areas from wind, sun, or unsightly views. They sometimes also build them to form a backdrop for plants.

Whatever the reason, there is always the issue of weeds and grass spreading from one side to the other, or sometimes pushing their way through the structure itself.

Fence options include:

• Board and batten
• Chain-link
• Flatboard
• Lattice
• Metal
• Picket
• Split-rail
• Stockad

Some designs incorporate kickboards that are installed under a bottom rail. This is the best way to prevent soil movement under fences, which is important if your neighbor decides to plant next to the fence or change the soil level in their yard. These are usually made from decay-resistant lumber and are centered under the bottom rail or attached to the posts and the rail. They usually extend about four to six inches into the ground so are also useful if you have animals that try to dig their way under fences.

Board and batten

Similar to flatboard fences (see below), board and batten fences combine boards and battens to bridge the gaps that appear with wyngate fences. Great for privacy, they are easier to weed if a bottom rail is incorporated in the design, otherwise plant growth will easily grow under and through the fence.

Chain-link

Chain-link provides a durable and economical fencing solution which is suitable for security and to define property lines. It will also keep animals and children in the yard while keeping unwelcome animals and people out. Because of its open nature, weeds and unkempt grass can easily grow through the fence, making weeding difficult if not done regularly. Chain-link can be buried below ground level which is good for preventing animals from burrowing in or out.

Flatboard

Flatboard fences comprise posts with vertical slats positioned right next to one another, as well as capping on top and usually a bottom board at ground level. Kickboards may be incorporated. This makes them ideal for privacy and protection, as well as being effective in terms of preventing weeds, grass, and unwanted plants from creeping through or under the fence.

Lattice

Attractive but not solid, lattice fences are made with a series of frames affixed to posts. If the bottom rail section is attached to a kickboard they will be easier to weed than if a gap is left at ground level.

Metal

Most ornamental fences are designed so that the base is a little above the ground. They may be installed between wood posts, metal poles, or brick or stone pillars and usually comprise quite widely spaced vertical lengths of metal. They are relatively easy to weed manually or with a weed-eater.

Picket

Picket fences are designed with decorative posts, two horizontal rails, and a series of vertical pickets that are spaced to create a gap that is usually slightly less than the width of the picket. If plants are established adjacent to the fence they might grow through the pickets. Weeds may also creep under and through the fence if not regularly cleared.

Split-rail

Economical and easy to erect, split-rail fences will keep large farm animals contained and they will define boundaries, but they don’t provide security or privacy. They are relatively easy to weed because there is usually easy access under the bottom rail for mechanical or manual weeding. 

Stockade

Stockade fences are often chosen for privacy and protection because they provide a good, solid design. Made by nailing or screwing pickets closely together onto horizontal rails, they don’t incorporate capping or bottom rails. This can make them tricky to weed if plant growth is not kept in check.

Maintenance is Important Too

While some fences are easier to weed than others, fence owners and their neighbors have a certain responsibility to maintain the area in and around fences. This doesn’t only involve weeding, but maintenance of the structure itself as well. Ultimately, the best thing, regardless of fence type, is to keep the bottom of the fence and ground adjacent to the fence clean.

FenceWorks of Georgia can install the full spectrum of fences and will help with maintenance if required. If you want the easiest fence to weed we will help you decide which is most suitable for your property.