Rail Fence

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Rare Bears Fencing rated 4.9/5 based on 631 reviews.

What Is a Rail Fence?

A rail fence is a wood fence style built from long horizontal rails attached to sturdy posts set into the ground. Rare Bears Fencing builds each fence from naturally split Western Red Cedar, delivering a clean, timeless look that fits farms, ranches, and residential properties alike. Standard builds come in 2-rail or 3-rail configurations, with chamfered cedar posts for a classic ranch finish.

Wooden rail fences are often used for decorative purposes in modern landscaping, adding charm while keeping clear sightlines across your yard. A well-built rail fence enhances property value and defines your boundary while keeping the landscape open and welcoming.

Split rail wood fence with natural timber rails set in a residential yard in the greater Seattle area
Rail Fence - front
Cedar split rail fence showing rail-to-post connection detail on a residential property
Rail Fence - Back
Natural split rail fence with cedar rails defining a property boundary in the Greater Seattle area

Why Choose a Split-Rail Fence for Your Seattle Property

A split-rail fence is made from timber logs split lengthwise, giving each rail a distinctive, natural texture that solid-cut lumber cannot match. Rail fences became iconic features of rural America by the 19th century, when early laws required farmers to fence out free-ranging livestock.

For settlers working in rocky or wooded terrain, rail fences provided a practical solution using the abundant timber cleared from farmland. For a taller look with more coverage, a third rail or added height can be arranged on request.

Why Homeowners Choose It:

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Affordable Construction: Traditional split rail styles need few tools, and our builds use stainless steel fasteners to keep every rail locked in place

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Historic Charm: A design with roots in early American farmland, still popular today

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Property Definition: Clearly marks boundaries while keeping the landscape open

Compare Your Rail Fence Options

Rail Fencing Styles We Install

Our rail fencing comes in a few distinct styles, each suited to different properties and purposes. Some homeowners simply call this a rails fence, but the construction stays consistent across every style we build.

Style Features Best For
Split Rail Timber logs split lengthwise, natural texture Farms, ranches, decorative boundaries
Ranch Rail Milled rails on cedar posts, clean lines Properties after a defined, finished look
Treated Rail Fence Pressure-treated posts and rails for ground contact Homeowners after decades of use
See Our Fence Work in Action

See Our Rail Fences in Action Across Seattle

These are split rail and ranch rail projects we've finished across King and Snohomish County, on everything from rural acreage to suburban front yards.

BUILDS FOR EVERY BUDGET

Choose Your Lexington Fence Package

There's no single version of a Lexington fence. The package you pick sets the cedar grade, the post type, and the finish level of the boards and trim. A clean, sturdy build for a side run costs less than a premium clear-cedar showpiece out front, and both are worth doing well. Look over the options below, then tell us what you're after and we'll match you to it.

BASIC

Start with the Essentials
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Pressure Treated Pencil Stick 3 ½" x 3 ½"

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Pressure Treated 2x4 Rails

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Grade 1 Cedar Fence Boards 5½" x ⅝”

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Post Caps Included

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Stainless Steel Nails

No Warranty

STANDARD

Get the Most Popular Fence
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Jumbo Pressure Treated Posts 4⅛" × 4⅛"

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Appearance Grade Cedar 2x4 Rails

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Grade 1 Cedar Fence Boards 5½" x ⅝”

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Post Caps Included

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Stainless Steel Nails

3 Years Warranty

10 Years w/ Post on Pipe upgrade

SELECT

Upgrade to Select Features
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Appearance Grade Cedar Post on Pipe 3½" × 3½"

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Appearance Grade Cedar 2x4 Rails

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Grade 1 Cedar Fence Boards 5½" × ⅝"

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Post Caps Included

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Stainless Steel Nails

20 Years Warranty

PREMIUM

Invest in Premium Craftsmanship
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Clear Cedar Post on Pipe 3½" x 3½"

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Appearance Grade Cedar 2x4 Rails

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Clear Cedar Fence Boards 5½" x ⅝"

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Post Caps Included

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Stainless Steel Nails

20 Years Warranty
Find the Right Fit for Your Property

Rail Fence vs Other Fences

Wondering how a rail fence stacks up against other options? Here's a quick side-by-side to help you decide.

Factor Rail Fence Privacy Fence Chain Link
Visibility Open, unobstructed view Full privacy screen Open, unobstructed view
Best For Boundaries, ranch-style properties Backyard privacy Budget-friendly security
Maintenance Low, occasional post checks Moderate, staining or sealing Very low

Rail fencing works best when you want a clear boundary without closing off the view of your property. If privacy is the top priority, a solid fence style is usually the better fit.

More Than Just Property Lines

Where to Install a Split Rail Farm Fence

Split rail suits a wide range of properties, from rural acreage to a residential yard after a touch of character. We plan every installation around your property's layout, terrain, and intended use.

Farms and Ranches

For generations, split rail fencing has marked pasture boundaries the same simple way: long rails slotted between posts, easy to extend across any stretch of land.

Front Yards and Entrances

Homeowners use split rail fencing to create an attractive, welcoming entrance that frames the yard without closing it off. It adds curb appeal while keeping the design understated.

Property Perimeters

A rail fence clearly defines where your property begins and ends, giving the space an open, welcoming feel, with gate openings for driveway or walkway access.

Decorative Garden Borders

Shorter rail fence sections can frame gardens or landscaped areas, adding an accent that ties into the surroundings. Use your existing landscaping as inspiration for where a section could enhance the space.

Every Detail Built to Last

Everything That Goes into Your Fence Rail System

A complete fence rail system relies on properly set posts, correctly sized rails, and construction methods suited to the fence style. Our team maps out the grid of your property and calculates the exact quantity of rails and posts needed before installation begins, so nothing is left to guesswork.

The fence and rails work together to support each other along the full length of the fence line, with each rail cut to join cleanly at the post. Our crew carries the rails, posts, and hardware to finish the run in one visit.

Split Rail Fence with Chain Link Combinations

Adding chain link behind the rails combines the natural split rail look with real containment. This hybrid style is a good option for properties after the rustic appearance of split rail with a measure of added security where you want it.

Split Rail Fence Repair and Maintenance

Repairing a split rail line is usually straightforward, since a single rail or post swaps out on its own. Regular inspections help catch cracked or shifting rails early, keeping the fence looking good and functioning properly for years.

Treated Split Rail Fence Posts and Rails

A treated split rail build uses pressure-treated wood for any post set in the ground, helping resist rot and extend the fence's life. This option suits homeowners who want decades of use without frequent replacement.

The Rare Bears Difference

Built by a Team You Can Count On for Rail Fencing

Rare Bears Fencing brings hands-on craftsmanship to every rail fence project across the region. Our team combines traditional construction methods with proven materials, delivering a fence that stays true to its roots while standing strong for years to come.

  • Western Red Cedar and Concrete-Set Posts: We use naturally split cedar and pressure-treated posts on every build, giving each rail fence the strength to hold up through wet Pacific Northwest seasons.
  • Precise Installation: Post hole digging and rail placement are handled with care on every job, and we assemble each fence to the correct height and length for your property so the finished result looks clean and level.
  • Efficient Construction: Traditional mortised split rail styles need few tools, though our builds use stainless steel fasteners for a secure, lasting fit that keeps installation efficient while giving the fence real holding power.
  • Local Reputation: A 4.9-star rating across hundreds of reviews, and we bring that same attention to detail to every project.

Get Started on Your Rail Fence Today

An open split-rail line can reset how a yard reads from the street, rustic without walling anything off. We'd love to hear about your project, so reach out today for a free estimate and rail fence installation built to last.

FAQs About Rail Fence

common fencing questions

What Is Split Rail Fencing?

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Split rail fencing is a wood fence style made from timber logs split lengthwise and attached to posts in a simple, open design. It is typically used for agricultural or decorative purposes, offering a natural look with minimal materials.

How Much Does a Split Rail Fence Cost?

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Split rail fencing pricing depends on wood type, post style, and total fence length. Because overall split rail fences cost varies by project size and material choice, we always answer that with a personalized, free on-site estimate.

Is a Split Rail Fence Good for Dogs?

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A standard split rail fence has open gaps between rails, so it works best for marking boundaries rather than fully containing pets. Pairing it with chain link mesh is a popular way to add containment while keeping the look.

What Is a Split Rail Ranch Fence?

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A split rail ranch fence uses the same timber construction as standard split rail fencing, typically built to cover longer stretches of land common on rural or ranch properties. It offers a practical, attractive way to mark large areas.

Can a Rail Fence Be Built Shorter?

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Yes, split rail fencing can be built at a shorter height for garden borders, landscaping accents, or decorative boundaries. Height is adjusted to fit the look and function you want for that area of your property.

Do You Build Split Rail Wood Fences?

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Yes, Rare Bears Fencing builds split rail wood fences using cedar and pressure-treated materials suited to Seattle's climate. Each fence is assembled with attention to proper post placement and rail alignment.

Where Can I Find a Split Rail Fence Near Me?

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Rare Bears Fencing serves homeowners and businesses throughout the greater Seattle area, including King and Snohomish Counties. We offer free on-site estimates so you can see our work and discuss your project in person.

Do You Handle Building a Split Rail Fence From Start to Finish?

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Yes, our team handles every step, from post hole digging to final rail assembly. We manage the entire installation process so you get a finished fence without having to coordinate multiple contractors.

Your Property, Reimagined

Ready for a Fence That Lasts?

A rail fence suits everything from an Eastside acreage to a front-yard garden border, without closing off the view. Fill out the form for a free consultation today.

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Expert Design Consultation
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Licensed & Insured Professionals
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Multiple Material Options
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