Wood Fence Installation: Board-on-Board vs. Stockade in Lincoln, RI
Why choose wood fencing in Lincoln, RI?
Lincoln sits at the intersection of historic New England charm and practical suburban living. Wood fencing fits that character, and when installed right, it stands up well to Rhode Island’s freeze-thaw cycles, coastal humidity, and https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/champion-fence-llc/fence-company-lincoln-ri/uncategorized/fence-company-lincoln-ri-seasonal-discounts-and-promotions.html the occasional Nor’easter. Beyond curb appeal, homeowners weigh privacy, wind resistance, and long-term maintenance. That’s where the two most popular privacy styles come into play: board-on-board and stockade. https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/champion-fence-llc/fence-company-lincoln-ri/uncategorized/gate-installation-trends-for-2025-in-lincoln-ri.html Each serves a purpose, and the best choice depends on your yard’s grade, your privacy priorities, and how much seasonal upkeep you can handle.
What’s the difference between board-on-board and stockade?
Both are classic privacy options for Wood Fence Installation, but they’re built differently:
- Stockade: Solid panels with tight, edge-to-edge vertical boards nailed to rails, often with a pointed or dog-ear top. It delivers immediate privacy and a clean look from one side.
- Board-on-board: Alternating overlapping pickets on both sides of the rails. From the street, you see a full wood surface. From the yard, you see the same. That overlap prevents the hairline gaps that appear in stockade as the wood dries.
In practice, stockade is the budget-conscious choice for full privacy on day one, while board-on-board stays private long after the first summer shrinkage. If you’ve ever noticed slivers of daylight through a neighbor’s stockade after July, you’ve seen seasoning gaps. Board-on-board is built to avoid that.
How Rhode Island weather affects each fence style
Moisture and temperature swings drive wood movement. Expect 1/8 to 1/4 inch of shrink per edge in the first season, depending on the species and how green the boards were on installation. Here’s how that plays out in Lincoln:
- Stockade: Initially tight, but minor gaps can open between boards after drying. A high-quality sealer within 30 days helps, but it won’t stop natural movement. If absolute privacy matters, some owners plant evergreen screening or opt for taller panels.
- Board-on-board: Overlap covers seasonal gaps. The structure also breaks wind better, which reduces stress on posts during storms. That said, it uses more lumber, so plan for a higher materials cost and slightly longer install time.
Both styles benefit from 4x4 or 5x5 pressure-treated posts set at least 36 inches deep with concrete in our region. On ledge or steep slopes common in parts of Lincoln, a competent Fence Builder may adjust hole depth, drainage, or bracket systems to keep posts true through frost heave.
Wood species, fasteners, and finishes that actually hold up
In my experience, the best value around Lincoln is pressure-treated pine or spruce for stockade and cedar for board-on-board. Cedar costs more but resists rot and warping better, especially on overlapped designs. If you choose pine or spruce, insist on kiln-dried when possible and keep pickets off the soil line.
For fasteners, use exterior-grade coated or stainless steel ring-shank nails or screws. Stainless is worth it within 30 miles of the coast due to salt air. A penetrating oil-based stain or high-quality acrylic sealer applied within the first month and refreshed every 2–3 years keeps color more even and reduces checking. Spray-and-back-brush is the most efficient method for full coverage on board-on-board.
Installation details that separate a good fence from a great one
Quality Fence Installation Champion Fence, LLC or any seasoned Fence Contractor will sweat the small stuff. Here are the details I watch:
- Post spacing: 8 feet on center is typical, but if wind exposure is high or panels are heavy, drop to 6 feet for extra stiffness.
- Rails: Use three rails for 6-foot fences. On board-on-board, a fourth mid-rail reduces picket cupping over time.
- Ground clearance: Maintain 1–2 inches above grade to avoid wicking moisture and to clear snow. On slopes, step panels cleanly or rack pickets if the style allows.
- Gate framing: Use steel frame kits or diagonal bracing, heavy-duty hinges, and proper latch alignment. Most callbacks are gate-related, not fence-related.
When done right, a 6-foot stockade or board-on-board should feel rigid when you push on it and look straight from every angle. Walk the line with your installer before they set concrete. Minor adjustments early save headaches later.
Wood Fence Installation: Board-on-Board vs. Stockade in Lincoln, RI
Choosing between the two in our area comes down to priorities:
- Choose board-on-board if you want enduring privacy with no daylight, better wind diffusion, a similar finished look on both sides, and you’re comfortable investing a bit more up front.
- Choose stockade if you want a lower initial cost, straightforward installation, and you plan to stain or seal proactively to minimize shrink gaps. For many homeowners in Lincoln, stockade offers the best price-to-privacy ratio.
On corner lots or yards exposed to steady wind off the water, I lean board-on-board for longevity. Along quiet cul-de-sacs with modest wind and budget Click here for more constraints, stockade gets the nod. For mixed applications, I’ve built board-on-board along the road frontage and stockade along side yards to balance cost and privacy. The title Wood Fence Installation: Board-on-Board vs. Stockade in Lincoln, RI applies perfectly to these real-world trade-offs, and it’s wise to walk your property with a pro before deciding.
Permits, neighbors, and property lines in Lincoln
Before you dig, confirm property lines with a survey or reliable pins. In Rhode Island towns, fence permits may be simple, but setbacks, height limits, and corner-visibility rules still apply. Six feet is common for backyard privacy, while front yards often cap at four feet. If a fence sits on a shared line, coordinate with neighbors to avoid disputes. A quick conversation about the finished side facing out and the chosen height goes a long way. A reputable Fence Company will guide you through the local rules so you stay compliant.
Maintenance, lifespan, and costs you should expect
Ballpark numbers vary with lumber markets, but here’s a grounded view:
- Stockade: Typically the lower cost per linear foot. Expect 12–20 years with routine sealing and occasional picket replacements. Gates usually need adjustment every couple of seasons.
- Board-on-board: About 10–25 percent more for materials and labor. Often outlasts stockade by several years due to better wind handling and reduced cupping, especially in cedar.
Budget for a maintenance cycle every 2–3 years. Clean with a wood-safe wash, spot-repair fasteners, and re-seal or stain. Trim vegetation back 6–8 inches to improve airflow and drying. If you ever see post movement after a harsh winter, address it promptly to prevent rail stress. Professional Fence Repair or Gate Repair is usually quick and affordable when tackled early.
When wood isn’t the best fit: viable alternatives
Some properties or HOAs prefer low-maintenance options. If you love the clean look and long service life, consider:
- Vinyl Fence Installation: Excellent for privacy with minimal upkeep. Good choice for damp areas or heavy shade where wood struggles.
- Aluminum Fence Installation: Ideal for pool code compliance and open-view perimeters. Tough powder coat stands up to New England weather.
- Chain Link Fence Installation: Budget-friendly security or pet containment. Add privacy slats or plantings to soften the look.
A skilled Fence Contractor can mix materials. For example, aluminum around a pool with a board-on-board privacy run behind a patio works beautifully.
Working with a local pro you can trust
Experience matters in Lincoln’s varied soils and grades. A local Fence Contractor Champion Fence, LLC understands how to set posts against frost heave, how to rack panels on uneven ground, and how to build gates that don’t sag. When comparing estimates, look beyond price. Ask about post depth, concrete mix, wood species, fasteners, and warranty terms. Clear answers signal craftsmanship. If you need Gate Installation, a Fence Company Champion Fence, LLC or any reputable installer will spec proper hardware and alignment for the weight of your chosen style.
FAQs about board-on-board and stockade fences
Which style provides better long-term privacy?
Board-on-board. The overlapping design prevents the seasonal gaps common in stockade as boards dry.
Can stockade be made more private after shrinkage?
Yes. Apply a quality stain or sealer early, add plantings, or retrofit narrow battens over gaps. Proactive sealing helps most.
What height works best in Lincoln, RI?
Six feet is typical for backyard privacy. Always check local rules and corner-lot visibility requirements before installing.
How often should I seal a wood fence?
Every 2–3 years. In high sun or coastal exposure, you may need a shorter cycle. Clean before re-sealing for best adhesion.
Do I need permits for a backyard fence?
Often, yes. Requirements vary by town and zone. A knowledgeable Fence Company can confirm current regulations and handle paperwork.
Final takeaways
If your top priority is lasting privacy licensed fence company Lincoln RI with minimal seasonal gaps, choose board-on-board and consider cedar for the pickets. If you want strong privacy at a friendlier price and don’t mind routine sealing or the chance of hairline gaps, stockade remains a smart, classic choice. Pay close attention to post depth, rail count, and hardware, and your fence will ride out Lincoln’s weather with fewer headaches. When in doubt, walk the property with a trusted pro like Champion Fence, LLC, compare options side by side, and choose the blend of privacy, durability, and budget that suits your home.
Name: Champion Fence, LLC
Address: 763 S Main St, Bellingham, MA 02019, United States
Phone: (774) 804-5370
Phone: (401) 228-4022
Plus Code: 2GX7+6Q Bellingham, Massachusetts
Email: champfencellc@gmail.com