Split Rail & Hog Wire Fence in Washington State
Two of the most requested fence styles we install — and they couldn’t be more different. Split rail is classic, rustic, and timeless. Hog wire is modern, clean, and everywhere right now. Both are a great fit for Washington properties, depending on what you need.
We’ve been installing fences across the greater Seattle area since 2015, and we know these two styles inside and out. Here’s what you need to know before you decide.
Split Rail & Hog Wire
Classic and contemporary — each a great fit depending on your property and what you’re trying to accomplish.
Split Rail — Classic & Rustic
Rough-hewn wooden rails set into posts with open space between. Not a privacy fence — a boundary marker and a statement of character. Especially popular in Snohomish County and the outskirts of King County where properties have room to breathe. Cedar is our recommendation here — naturally rot-resistant for Washington winters.
Hog Wire — Modern Farmhouse
Galvanized welded wire panels set inside a sturdy cedar or Doug fir frame — rustic and modern at the same time. Homeowners in Kirkland, Woodinville, Bothell, and Bellevue use it for backyard perimeters, garden enclosures, dog runs, and decorative borders. Works for residential properties of almost any size.
The Classic Choice for Larger Properties
Split rail has been used on rural and semi-rural land for generations. If you’re defining the edge of a large yard, marking a driveway entrance, or separating pasture from lawn, it does the job without boxing you in visually — and it holds up well here when the right wood species and treatment are used.
Get Your Free EstimatePosts Set in Concrete
Rails slot into routed holes or notches — no nails on the rails in a traditional design. Sturdy, and it moves slightly with the ground without cracking.
Two-Rail or Three-Rail
Three-rail adds height and better defines the boundary. Two-rail is a lighter visual footprint and costs less per linear foot.
Cedar for Longevity
Cedar resists moisture and rot naturally — 15 to 20 years with minimal maintenance in our climate. Pressure-treated posts with cedar rails is the best combination.
Respects the Surroundings
Near trails or greenbelts, split rail respects the natural setting without feeling imposing.
Why Hog Wire Works So Well in Washington
The modern farmhouse look that’s taking over — and it’s genuinely practical for our climate.
Panels Don’t Rot
The wire panels don’t rot, warp, or absorb moisture the way solid wood does. The wood frame needs treatment and sealing, but the panel itself is essentially maintenance-free — a big advantage in a wet climate.
Wind Passes Through
The open design means wind passes through rather than pushing against the fence. Solid fences in exposed locations face significant wind load — hog wire sidesteps that almost entirely.
Tensioned Properly
We set posts in concrete, build the wood frame, and stretch the panels tightly before securing. Panel tension matters — a loose panel looks sloppy and sags over time. We take that step seriously.
Fully Customizable
We customize framing height, spacing, and top rail design — flat top, decorative cap, or a slight arch on gate sections. We work through the details with you at the estimate.
Split Rail vs. Hog Wire
Not sure? Call us — we’ll walk your property and give you an honest recommendation, not just a quote for the most expensive option.
Large Rural / Semi-Rural Lots
Split rail is the traditional choice. It defines space without overdoing it.
Suburban Yards with Pets or Gardens
Hog wire is usually the better fit — the panels contain animals and protect garden beds while keeping an open, attractive look.
Modern or Farmhouse-Style Homes
Hog wire pairs beautifully with this aesthetic.
Budget-Conscious Projects
Both are cost-effective versus full privacy fencing. Two-rail split rail has a lower material cost; hog wire has more labor in the framing.
Split Rail & Hog Wire FAQ
Is hog wire fence good for dogs?
Yes — with the right specifications. Standard hog wire panels have openings large enough for small dogs to squeeze through or get their heads stuck. For pet containment, we recommend a tighter wire mesh (2×4 welded wire or similar) inside the frame. We’ll recommend the right panel gauge and opening size based on your dogs’ breed and size. A properly built hog wire fence with the right panel is one of the most secure and attractive options for dogs.
How long does a split rail fence last in Washington?
Cedar split rail fence in our climate typically lasts 15 to 20 years with minimal maintenance. Untreated pine or fir will last significantly less — sometimes under 10 years. The posts are the most vulnerable point because they’re in direct ground contact. We recommend pressure-treated posts and cedar rails as the best combination for longevity in the Pacific Northwest. Applying a quality wood sealant every few years adds life to the rails.
Can hog wire fence be used as a privacy fence?
Not on its own — the wire panels are open by design. However, some clients combine a hog wire panel fence with climbing plants, bamboo, or exterior screening on one side to add privacy over time. It’s a popular look in residential neighborhoods where you want some separation without a full solid fence. If you need complete privacy, cedar or vinyl privacy fencing is the better route, and we install those as well. We’re happy to discuss both options during your estimate.
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We’re a family-owned business, not a franchise. When you call, you’re talking to someone who actually shows up on your job site. Our reputation in King & Snohomish County is built on repeat customers and referrals.
Family-owned fence contractor serving Woodinville, Kirkland, Bothell, Bellevue, Redmond, Duvall, Monroe & surrounding areas.