When the terrain is generally level, stepped fencings are typically employed since they have a more conventional aspect.
Raked fencing panels have a single continuous angle, as opposed to stepped fencing. The panels are positioned at a smooth angle rather than stepping. When the land has a significant slope, raked fencings are frequently used because they are less obvious from a distance. On level ground, however, stepped or raked fences can also be erected.
What Does A Raked Fence Mean?
A racked fencing is a fence design meant to match the land’s contours. This type of barrier is widely used in hilly or rocky areas where a traditional fence would not be able to follow uneven terrain.
However, not all sloped land can benefit from this technique. Raked fencing might not be an option if the slope is steep. Typically, the restriction is 12 inches for a 6-foot portion. In addition, raked fencing could be challenging to install if the slope of your yard changes dramatically.
PROS of Raked fencing:
The fundamental concept behind utilizing rackable panels is to keep the fence’s bottom rail parallel to the slope, maintaining a constant distance between the ground and the fence’s bottom along the lengths of the panels. But some of the advantages of Raked fences include:
- The angle of the panels in a racking fence can provide the appearance of extra height, making it more aesthetically beautiful.
- On terrains with a slope, racking fencings are simpler to install.
- Due to the uniform depth of the posts, stacked fencing are less expensive and less likely to experience structural issues.
- In general, they are also offer more privacy than stepped fences.
CONS of a raked fence:
- A fencing panel can only be racked so far; a standard metal racked panel can be tilted 20–30 degrees from the square.
- Because they are less resilient than stepped fences, stacked fencing may need to be replaced more frequently.
- The idea of rackable panels cannot be used on very steep slopes due to this restriction.
- In strong and high winds, this type of barrier is more prone to topple over because the weight of the fence is not distributed uniformly.
- Additionally, since rackable panels are required to have movable joints connecting each of their components, they might be structurally weaker than similarly sized rigid panels.
Where Can Racked Fence Be Installed?
The best place for a racked fence is next to a body of water, like a lake or pond. Racked fences are more aesthetically beautiful than regular fences because they can follow the curves of the terrain, and it also aids in preventing gaps from emerging in the fence line.
Installing a racked fence, for instance, can help to redirect some of the wind away from your property if you reside in a windy place like Orange County, Los Angeles.
Many homes in San Diego are situated on sloping or hilly terrain, making raked fences an efficient fencing option. They can be erected without the need for pricey excavation or grading work by following the slope of the land.
What Is A Stepped Fence?
Stepped fencing is installed in staggered, or “stepped,” panels to follow the shape of the land. The fencing rails remain horizontal, and posts are extended to accommodate the variance in grade. Each section is fixed to the post to accommodate the slope of the land. When finished, your fencing will look like stairs, increasing in height as you advance up the slope.
PROS: A stepped fence’s main benefit in windy areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Ventura County, San Bernardino County, and San Gabriel County is that it is less likely to collapse over. This is because the weight of the fencing is distributed evenly over both sides of the panel. Generally speaking, aluminum fences with steps last longer than those with racks.
CONS: They are also often more expensive to install because the posts must be placed at different depths to produce the desired effect. Stepped fencing typically requires more care than its counterparts since the earth surrounding the posts might settle with time and cause the fence to tilt.
Where Can You Install a Stepped Fence?
The stepped fence is one that is set up gradually rather than all at once. This is advantageous if your yard slopes since it enables you to install the fence without first leveling the ground.
Additionally, this type of barrier can be used to create various levels of privacy; for instance, you could have a low fence in the front of your property and a taller one in the back. The Los Angeles Times reports that fences can be 8 feet high in the backyard and on the sides of non-hillside properties in the city, which is typically the front of your home. They may only stand 3 1/2 feet tall in front.
Wrapping it up
When it comes to choosing between Stepped or Raked fences, the choice is always up to you. With the full explanation of the differences between these two types, their advantages and disadvantages, you should be able to make the choice based on which would serve you more and fit your needs.
