Warm, modern privacy for Bellevue homes

What Is a Horizontal Wood Fence in Bellevue?

A Horizontal Wood Fence runs boards side-to-side for clean lines and modern curb appeal. In Bellevue we build with #1 Grade cedar for rich color and durability, fastening boards to posts set in concrete with tight joints and an optional cap for a sleek, finished look. It’s best for privacy, pets, corner lots, and sloped yards because horizontal fences step smoothly with the terrain while keeping gaps consistent.

Horizontal wood fence with mixed gaps
Horizontal wood fence with mixed gaps
Horizontal wood fence with open slat top
Horizontal wood fence with open slat top

Typical heights are 4’, 5’, 6’, and 8’ (we confirm local code). Budget ranges from $–$$$ based on length, height, and hardware. Maintenance is medium: stain or seal to protect against moisture and weathering. With proper care, lifespan is 15–25 years. Add matching gates or hidden steel posts for extra strength and a warm, contemporary style that fits most homes in Bellevue.

Make your fence a statement piece

Top Benefits of Horizontal Wood Fencing

A horizontal wood fence instantly transforms your outdoor space with clean, modern lines that stand out from traditional vertical fences. The side-to-side design visually widens your yard, creating a sleek, open feel while providing exceptional privacy. Horizontal fences handle sloped yards better, maintain tighter gaps, and add serious curb appeal, making them a smart investment for Bellevue homeowners seeking both beauty and function.

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Modern look elevates any property’s curb appeal
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Makes yards feel larger with visual flow
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Delivers more privacy with fewer gaps
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Adapts to slopes and corners for a custom fit
Modern horizontal wood fence with wide cedar boards and matching gate
Choose Your Cedar Board Quality

Board Grade Options for Your Estate Fence

Your estate fence deserves the best. We install #1 Grade cedar for durability and style, or Clear Grade for a high-end, seamless finish. Our team helps you choose the ideal option.

Grade 1 Cedar Grade 2 Cedar Clear Cedar
Feature Grade 1 Cedar / Redwood (Our Standard) Clear Cedar (Knot-Free) (Premium Upgrade) Grade 2 (Standard Market) – Not Offered
Appearance Smooth, consistent grain with minimal tight knots; clean, uniform look from a few feet away. Knot-free, uniform grain; refined, architectural finish that photographs beautifully. More/larger knots and color variation; busy look on long runs.
Durability Fewer loose knots means fewer future fall-outs/holes; solid fastener hold. Top-tier durability; dense, clear stock holds fasteners and edges exceptionally well. Knots can loosen; voids invite moisture; more callbacks over time.
Finish & Stain Behavior Takes semi-transparent stains evenly; natural cedar tone shows nicely. Evens out stains/paints for a luxe finish; ideal for darker tones and clear coats. Knots absorb stain differently → blotchy finish; more prep needed.
Maintenance Low. Rinse debris, keep soil clearance, re-seal/stain on schedule. Low. Same schedule; finish stays cleaner visually between coats. Medium to high. More touch-ups around knots/voids.
Typical Lifespan (PNW) 20–30 years with proper care. 20–30 years with premium look preserved longer. Variable; aesthetic issues arrive sooner even if structure lasts.
Best Use Cases Privacy panels, good-neighbor, stockade, cap & trim; works for horizontal, but Clear is recommended for perfectionists. Horizontal/modern styles, picture-frame/cap-and-trim, feature fences, HOA/front-of-home runs. Budget projects in low-visibility areas (we don’t install).
Cost Position Mid-range upfront; strong long-term value. Highest upfront, lowest rework risk; premium curb appeal. Lowest upfront; highest risk of rework and aesthetic issues.
Find the Best Posts for Your Horizontal Fence

Post Options for Modern Style and Lasting Strength

Choosing the right post is key to a durable, beautiful horizontal wood fence. We offer premium cedar, pressure treated, post-on-pipe, and steel posts, each supporting your fence’s strength, style, and longevity.

Matching Wood Post

Matching Wood Post

Cedar posts create a seamless look with rich, natural wood tones. They blend perfectly with horizontal wood fence panels for warmth and classic curb appeal in any Bellevue yard.

Pressure Treated Posts

Pressure Treated Posts

Pressure treated wood posts resist rot, moisture damage, and insects. They offer extra durability and ensure your horizontal wood fence stands strong through all seasons.

Post on Pipe

Post on Pipe

This option combines beautiful cedar with hidden steel pipes for exceptional stability. Enjoy a modern horizontal wood fence with clean lines, added strength, and less risk of warping, ideal for sloped or uneven ground.

Steel Posts

Steel Posts

Steel posts deliver maximum support and low maintenance. Hidden or exposed, they help your horizontal wood fence stay straight, secure, and worry-free for years, even in challenging Bellevue weather.

Best Wood Choices for Horizontal Wood Fences in Bellevue

Selecting the Right Wood for Your Fence

When it comes to building a horizontal wood fence, choosing the best fencing materials makes all the difference. The wood you select impacts not just the style and curb appeal, but also the durability, maintenance, and long-term performance of your new fence. At Optima Fence and Deck, we install only top-grade cedar and redwood—the most popular choices for horizontal fences in Bellevue.

Why Choose Cedar or Redwood?

Cedar

  • Natural beauty: Cedar’s warm colors and smooth grain deliver a modern, sleek look that enhances any outdoor space.
  • Moisture & rot resistance: Cedar stands up to Bellevue’s climate, resisting moisture damage, rot, and warping for long-lasting durability.
  • Versatility: Works beautifully for horizontal privacy fences, modern horizontal fence designs, or rustic backyard projects.

Redwood

  • Superior strength: Redwood is known for its dense boards, structural integrity, and strong resistance to weathering.
  • Rich color: Enjoy deep, vibrant tones that add instant aesthetic appeal and make your horizontal fence stand out.
  • Sustainability: Sourced from managed forests for an eco-friendly choice.

Invest in Quality for Lasting Value

Choosing cedar or redwood for your horizontal wood fence means less maintenance, fewer signs of damage, and a longer lifespan, often 15–25 years with proper stain or seal. Both options are ideal for creating a horizontal fence that’s beautiful, durable, and fits your property’s style.

Is a Horizontal Wood Fence Right for Your Yard?

A horizontal wood fence is one of the most versatile and popular choices for Bellevue homeowners who want both function and style. But is this modern horizontal wood fence the best fit for your space? Let’s explore the key considerations.

Ideal Use Cases

Horizontal wooden fences work well for a variety of properties: urban, suburban, and everything in between. They’re perfect for corner lots, backyards with beautiful landscaping, and homes looking for extra curb appeal.

Privacy, Airflow & Wind Protection

Horizontal wood fence panels deliver excellent privacy thanks to their tight, side-to-side boards, yet still allow for controlled airflow if you select slight gaps between boards. For full privacy, choose a closed horizontal wood slat fence design. Bellevue’s occasional wind is no problem, these fences stay sturdy and can be engineered for added strength with metal or steel posts.

Handling Slopes, Pets & Kids

Unlike traditional fences, a wood horizontal fence can be stepped or racked to follow sloped yards, ensuring a clean look and consistent gap. Tight boards also help keep pets and children safely inside your yard.

HOA and Neighborhood Fit

Modern horizontal wood fence designs are accepted by most Bellevue HOAs thanks to their clean, upscale appearance. Multiple finish options mean you can match any architectural style.

Not sure if a horizontal wood fence is right for you?

Contact Optima Fence and Deck for a free consultation. Our experienced team will help you choose the best wood, style, and installation plan for your property—no pressure, just expert advice.

FAQ's

Horizontal Wood Fence FAQs

1. What are the benefits of a horizontal wood fence?

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A horizontal wood fence offers modern curb appeal, strong privacy, and a visually wider yard. Its side-to-side design is ideal for sloped landscapes, provides consistent gaps for security, and adapts well to both traditional and modern homes in Bellevue.

2. Are horizontal wood fences more expensive than vertical fences?

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Yes, horizontal wood fences usually cost more than vertical styles. The higher cost comes from extra labor, more posts for stability, and the precise installation needed for a flawless, modern appearance.

3. What wood do you use for horizontal wood fences?

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We only use Grade 1 cedar for our horizontal wood fencing, never Grade 2. Grade 1 cedar ensures a clean, smooth finish with fewer knots, better durability, and a longer-lasting, premium look.

4. How long does a horizontal wood fence last?

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With high-quality cedar, proper installation, and regular maintenance (like staining or sealing), a horizontal wood fence can last 15 to 25 years or more, even in Bellevue’s wet climate.

5. Do you provide warranties for wooden fences?

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Yes! We offer a 1-year workmanship warranty and material warranties ranging from 4 years to 20 years, or even a lifetime, depending on the specific posts and hardware selected.

6. Do you install gates with horizontal wood fences?

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Absolutely. We install matching wood gates: single or double, based on your needs. For the strongest, longest-lasting option and lifetime warranty, we recommend a steel-framed gate with wood infill.

7. Can horizontal wood fences be built on slopes or uneven ground?

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Yes, horizontal wood fences can be stepped or racked to follow sloped or uneven terrain. This flexibility ensures your fence remains straight, visually appealing, and gap-free across your property.

8. Are horizontal wood fences allowed by HOAs in Bellevue?

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Most Bellevue HOAs allow horizontal wood fencing due to its upscale, modern appearance. We’re happy to help you review guidelines and provide compliant designs to fit your neighborhood’s requirements.
Bellevue’s Local Fence Specialists

Let’s Build Your Ideal Horizontal Wood Fence

Take the next step toward better privacy and curb appeal. Reach out for a free design consultation or estimate. Optima makes horizontal wood fences easy and hassle-free for Bellevue homeowners.

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