What happens in your yard stays in your yard, right?
True, but only when you have some privacy.
This is where having a privacy fence comes in.
Privacy fences are usually made of wooden materials and they come in different variations and styles.
Two popular options are the shadow box fence and the board on board fence.
Choosing the right style to go for could be confusing since they all have their advantages and disadvantages.
To make the right decision, you have to consider the pros and cons of each, and how well it will work for your yard.
Not to worry, I’m here to help you to make that decision. This is why I’ll be doing this shadow box fence vs board on board fence comparison.
The information provided here will help you to make the right decision, so keep reading.
Board on Board Privacy Fence
If you’re looking for a sturdily built wood-fencing option (which I’m sure you are), you might want to consider the board on board fence.
The panels are fixed along horizontal rails with vertical board construction on both sides. The sides of the board-on-board fencing style are overlapped, which means you’ll be having two layers of wood as opposed to having just one.
This overlapping technique ensures that the fence stands firm and strong. It also helps the fence last longer, unlike the regular single-layer fencing style.
Wood can shrink as it ages but that won’t be a problem with the board-on-board fencing style because the overlap prevents any gaps from appearing in the fence.
As you can imagine, this fencing style will cost you a good sum of money thanks to the number of wood needed to construct it. Building it will also require some manpower, which can spike up the costs as well.
Nonetheless, it’s a great idea to go for it if you have a decent budget and your privacy means everything to you.
Thinking of how sturdy the fence will be and how long it will last might make it easier for you to spend the extra cash.
Related: Pros and Cons of Shadow Box Fence
Shadowbox Semi-Privacy Fence
It is quite common for people to confuse board-on-board fences with shadow box fences. Understandably so since they have similarities in terms of appearance.
One such similarity is the use of two vertical rows of boards fixed to a horizontal beam.
As for what makes them different, the board-on-board fencing style doesn’t have gaps where one can peep through, it is totally opaque. The shadow box fence, on the other hand, has spaces where you could look through if you come up close.
This makes the board-on-board fence a 100% privacy fence while the shadow box fence is a semi-privacy fence.
As for construction costs, the shadow box fencing style is less expensive to build. This is because fewer woods are needed for the job.
The shadow box option is the right choice if you don’t mind compromising your privacy a bit but still want a well-built wooden fence.
Related: Pros and Cons of Board on Board Fence
Comparison between Board on Board Fence & Shadow Box Fence
The board on board fencing style has some advantages that may interest you. And so does the shadow box fence.
So, how do they fare against each other?
Visual appeal
Most fencing styles have only one attractive side. With a board on board fence, you’ll have two sides that look the same and are equally attractive.
This will spare you the headache involved in choosing which side of the fence you want to face your yard.
The shadow box fence also offers you two-sided visual appeal as both sides of the fence look exactly the same.
In this area, I’d call it a tie since you get the same value regardless of which of the fencing styles you go for.
Vertical Height
An advantage of the board on board fence is that it has a good vertical height. I’m talking as high as 8 feet.
It is perfect for areas where privacy is heavily required such as pools or hot tubs.
For ultimate privacy from your neighbors, board on board fence is a good option.
As for the shadow box fence, the vertical height can also go as high as 8 feet. Meaning it provides the same amount of coverage that board on board fence offers.
Privacy
If you have children or pets, then I’m sure you’d want to keep them as safe as possible. A board on board fence can provide ultimate privacy for your kids and pets.
This fencing style doesn’t have see-through spaces, so outsiders cannot peep through to see what’s going on in your yard. This will make you feel more confident that your kids and pets are safe around the yard.
As for the shadow box fence, there are spaces that anyone close enough can peep through.
So, if you’re looking for 100% privacy, go for the board on board fence. It wins this round.
Sturdiness
For homeowners that are particular about strength and durability, board on board fence is the better choice.
The overlapping boards provide twice the strength and stamina needed to ensure the fence lasts a very long time. Also, the posts used for board-on-board fencing are usually long. And this means it can be installed deeper into the ground for a more sturdy build.
The shadow box fence is also sturdily built but not as sturdy as the board on board fence.
It’s true that the boards placed in between the pickets in a shadow box fence provide some extra stability, but not as strong as the former. This is because the design is more focused on creating a shadow effect than actual stability.
If you’re more interested in strength than you are in beauty, then the board on board fence is the one to go for.
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Finish Options
With the board on board fencing, you can choose to finish with several colors and styles.
You can paint, varnish, or just leave the fence bare as it is.
You also have several finish options with the shadow box fence. Although, the design of the fence is much fancier as a result of the shadow effect. So, the finishing will look a lot better.
If you fancy beautiful styles, designs, and mind-blowing finishing, go for the shadow box fence design.
The shadow box fence wins this round for me.
Cost
Honestly, constructing a shadow box fence isn’t as expensive as building a board on board fence, but it will still cost you some money.
The overlapping design of a board on board fence requires two layers of wood instead of one. This is why you’ll need to spend some good money building it.
The shadow box fence, on the other hand, requires less wood to construct. This is due to the design that leaves pickets spaced out on both sides of the fence with boards and posts placed in between.
Kids’ and Pets’ Preference
It’s true that a fence is supposed to create a barrier between the outside world and your yard. Certainly, both the board on board fence and shadow box fence do exactly that.
That’s a good thing, right? Well, it depends.
Kids and pets have a tendency to be curious, especially when there are noises that prompt them to be.
Board on board fences do not have spaces where one can peep through, so if there is something on the other side of the fence that attracts the attention of kids, they may be prompted to jump or climb to see what it is, hence, putting themselves at risk of falling and injuries.
This is an advantage a shadow box fence has over the board on board fence since kids and pets will have their curiosities satisfied by simply peeping through the spaces in the fence to see what’s happening outside.
That being said, I think kids and pets will love the shadow box fence a lot more because it allows them to take a look outside.
Construction time
Both of these two fence styles consume a decent amount of time to construct. However, the board on board fence takes a lot longer.
This is because it requires a lot more wood to work with and the design is a bit more complicated than a shadow box fence.
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Shadow Box Fence Pros and Cons
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of the shadow box fence. I’ve written an in-depth explanation of each one in this blog post.
Pros
- The design is appealing to the eyes
- Fencing looks the same on both sides
- Alternating pickets give the fence more durability and sturdiness
- Pets and children can peep through
- Shadow box fences are customizable
Cons
- It’s not completely private
- It can be challenging to construct
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Board on Board Fence Pros and Cons
Below are the benefits and drawbacks of the board on board fence. I explained each of the advantages and disadvantages in this guide.
Pros
- It provides enhanced privacy and security
- The fence offers durability and longevity
- It’s visually appealing and versatile
- It offers noise reduction
- The value of your property can increase by installing it
- It provides enhanced wind resistance
Cons
- It may come with a higher initial cost
- Regular maintenance may be required
- It limits airflow and sunlight
- The board reduces natural light
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Board on Board Fence vs. Stockade Fence (Side by Side Fence)
A board on board fence and a stockade fence are two common options for privacy fencing.
While they may appear similar at first glance, there are some distinct differences between them.
A board on board fence features overlapping vertical boards on both sides of the fence, providing an attractive view from both directions.
On the other hand, a stockade fence consists of tightly spaced, solid panels without any gaps between the boards.
This lack of visibility can create a more secluded and private atmosphere.
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Board on Board Fence Overlap
One of the defining characteristics of a board on board fence is the overlapping design of its boards.
Each board is placed side by side, with the edges overlapping the adjacent boards.
This overlapping arrangement ensures minimal visibility through the fence while maintaining a stylish appearance.
The overlapping boards enhance privacy and add depth to the fence’s overall structure.
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Double Boarded Fence
A double boarded fence incorporates an extra layer of boards on top of the initial boards.
The double boarded design further enhances privacy and creates a more robust and substantial fence. This option is ideal for properties where maximum privacy is desired or where noise reduction is a priority.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Shadow Box Fence?
A shadow box fence, also known as a good-neighbor fence, is designed to provide both privacy and an attractive appearance on both sides.
It consists of alternating vertical boards attached to the fence posts, with a small gap between each board.
This configuration allows air to pass through while still providing a certain degree of privacy.
The alternating boards create a shadowed effect, hence the name “shadow box” fence.
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What is a Board on Board Fence?
A board on board fence features overlapping boards on both sides of the fence.
This design ensures complete privacy and a consistent appearance from either direction.
The overlapping boards not only provide a solid barrier but also offer an appealing aesthetic that complements various architectural styles.
Is Shadow Box Fence More Expensive?
When comparing the costs of a shadow box fence and a board on board fence, the former tends to be more cost-effective.
The materials required for a shadow box fence are typically less expensive, as it utilizes fewer boards and less labor-intensive construction.
The design of the shadow box fence also allows for better airflow, which can potentially reduce maintenance costs over time.
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Is Board on Board Fence More Expensive?
Compared to a shadow box fence, a board on board fence may involve slightly higher costs.
The overlapping design requires more boards and additional labor during installation.
However, it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits, such as increased privacy and durability, that the fence offers. Investing in a board on board fence can potentially enhance the value and aesthetics of your property.
Final Verdict
The shadow box fence and the board on board fence are both beautiful and effective fence styles to have around your yard.
They have many similar qualities just as they have differences, so you should make your choice based on how well each fence style can work for you.
I hope this shadow box fence vs board on board fence comparison article will help you to make the right decision regarding which fencing style to go for.
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