Quick Answer
The main types of wood farm fencing are: board fence (most common for horses), post and rail fence (rustic appearance, lower cost), split rail fence (decorative, low containment), and pole fence (round posts with horizontal poles). Board fence with 3–5 boards is the most functional for livestock. Post and rail suits lighter livestock. Split rail is primarily decorative and unsuitable for containing most farm animals.
Board Fence
The standard choice for horse facilities and premium livestock operations. Uses 1x6-inch boards nailed or screwed horizontally to vertical posts at 8–12-foot spacing. Boards attached to the inside of posts (facing livestock) are harder to push off. Available in 3-board (48-inch height), 4-board (58-inch), and 5-board (68-inch) configurations. Requires periodic painting or staining. Cost: $10–$20 per linear foot installed.
Post and Rail
Uses round or rectangular rails set into mortised holes or between brackets on vertical posts. Traditional, rustic appearance common in the northeastern and western US. Rails can be pushed out by livestock leaning — reinforcement with wire or electric is often needed. Less containment than board fence. Costs $8–$15 per linear foot installed. Lifespan: 15–25 years with treated posts.
Split Rail
Two or three rough-split rails (usually cedar) in a zigzag or straight-line post pattern. Traditional American appearance; primarily used as a decorative boundary marker or yard fence. Not suitable for livestock containment — rails are easily pushed off, stepped over, or ducked under by determined animals. Best used for property boundary delineation along roads.
Pole Fence
Uses round peeled logs as both posts and rails, creating a heavy, rustic fence common in ranching areas of the West. Very strong — can withstand cattle pressure. Expensive to build due to the heavy materials. Long lifespan when using naturally rot-resistant species (locust, cedar). Best suited to large ranching operations in the western US where timber is locally available.
Pineboard and Rough-Cut Lumber
Rough-cut lumber from local sawmills often provides the best value for farm board fence. Rough surface holds paint and nails better than smooth-finished lumber. Local sawmill boards in native species (oak, locust, cedar) may be significantly cheaper than retail treated lumber, with comparable or better durability depending on species.
Our Recommendation
For horse facilities: 4-board fence using treated pine or naturally rot-resistant species. For working cattle and mixed livestock: transition from board fence to wire fence for any run over 500 feet. For decorative property frontage: split rail or post-and-rail with wire backing. Match fence type to function and budget — not to aesthetics alone.