A lot of yards along the Front Range aren't flat, from the foothills to newer subdivisions graded for drainage. A fence on a slope can be built two ways, and the choice changes both the look and how well it keeps pets in.
Stepped fence
Each section stays level, and the fence steps down the hill like a staircase. It looks tidy and works with any material, including vinyl panels. The downside: each step leaves a triangle-shaped gap under the fence on the low end, which may need to be filled for small dogs.
Racked (contoured) fence
The rails follow the slope, and the boards stay vertical, so the bottom of the fence follows the ground. There are smaller gaps underneath, which is better for pets. Wood fences, chain-link and split rail rack easily. Many vinyl panels only rack a little, or need special panels.
Which is best for my yard?
- Gentle, even slope: racked usually looks best and leaves the fewest gaps.
- Steep or uneven slope: stepping keeps the fence looking level.
- Vinyl: usually stepped.
- Dogs: racked, or stepped with the gaps filled.
Filling gaps under a fence
For a stepped fence, the gaps can be closed with a rot board (a board along the bottom), extra-long boards cut to follow the ground, or a strip of wire mesh buried a few inches deep. See dog-proof fence ideas.
Height on a slope
Cities usually measure fence height from the ground, so on a slope some sections may need to step down to stay within the limit. See how tall can my fence be?
Posts on a hill
Water runs downhill, and so does soil over time. Good post depth and the right setting method matter even more on a slope. See posts in clay and rock soil.
Wondering what a slope does to the price? With us, nothing. See does a fence on a slope cost more?
Every slope is different. Ask for a free estimate and Cody will show you how stepped and racked would look on your line.