Wood Fences

Level Fence with Uneven Ground

Homeowners will often ask that their fence is “level” … which is totally understandable. However, a level fence on uneven or sloping ground is probably NOT what you really want!

As you can see here, if your yard slopes or dips, a level fence may not be the right approach.

Racked Fence on Sloped Ground

In some cases, a property might have a consistent slope from front to back or side to side. If this is the case, matching the slope of the ground yields a beautiful “straight”, sloping fence line.

Many people love the look of this approach.

Stepped Fence on Sloped Ground

Another way to handle a sloping yard is to use a “stepped” approach. Each individual fence panel is level and steps down, consistent with the slope of the yard.

Depending on the steepness of the slope, each fence panel is at ground level on one end, but can be several inches off the ground on the other. For this reason, if the look of a “stepped” approach is your preference, we only recommend it for gradual slopes.

Stepped Fence on Sloped Ground With a Retaining Wall

Another great solution for sloping yards is to add a decorative retaining wall along the perimeter and to build the fence on top of the wall.

By doing this, you get to have the level stepped approach while maintaining excellent ground level integrity.

Fence Contouring With Ground

Shown here is the most common approach to uneven and sloping ground. The fence simply follows the contour of the land. The “rolling”, “flowing” fence line closely matches the ground - creating the most natural look for a fence.

We carefully place posts at key points along the perimeter to most closely match the contour of the land … but there are limitations to how closely we can match sudden changes in height and contour. So small gaps are to be expected in certain points at the bottom of the fence. This is completely normal and there are ways to “hide” them if that is a concern for you (including using a decorative retaining wall as described above).

Stepped Fence on Uneven Ground

The “stepped” approach is often used for ground that is both sloping and uneven. This is really a matter of preference but for ground that is “wavy”, this may not yield the desired result, as the fence can look very “choppy” (as shown here).

Stepped or rolling with the contours - sometimes it's just a matter of personal preference. We've done it both ways, many times.

Level Fence on Uneven Ground with Bottom Extension

For the ultimate in customization, another option MIGHT be to install the fence perfectly level, then we extend the bottom of the fence to match the contours of the ground.

This is almost exclusively available as an option for WOOD FENCES only.

This requires a lot more planning and calculation. This equates to more time - meaning a higher cost. Much longer wood posts, rails, and pickets may also be needed - which also increases costs.

Another issue is, by design - the bottom rails are not level and are not evenly spaced. The bottom rails simulate the contour of the ground below it - which is a look that not everyone likes. So while the top of the fence is perfectly straight and level, the bottom most certainly is not!

Custom Fence Design for Uneven Ground

Rest assured, whatever your situation and personal preference, we are here to help guide you to YOUR best options and to design your best solutions! Our fence design experts have seen it all.

This is a major benefit of working with a professional fence contractor like Empire Fence Company instead of general purpose handyman services, landscapers, or other contractors – because we specialize in professional fence installation across the entire region, we will design and install the absolute best solution!

Contact Us To Design Your Custom Fence Solution

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