Wood fences
Picket fences built for Louisiana
Classic curb appeal with the right spacing, materials, and hardware—installed to handle humidity, storms, and shifting soil.
Why picket fences work
Picket fencing is ideal for front yards, gardens, and walkways when you want a friendly boundary without closing in the space. We’ll help you choose the right profile, spacing, and finish so it stays straight in Louisiana weather.
- Curb appeal + visibility for homes and small commercial properties
- Pet and kid-friendly with the right height and spacing
- Pairs well with walk gates and decorative hardware
Picket styles & options
Choose the look first. Then we’ll dial in spacing, picket width, rails, and finish for your property.
Top profiles
- Traditional pointed (classic “white picket” look)
- Straight-top (clean, modern lines)
- Scalloped (arched sections for a softer look)
- Decorative tops (rounded, gothic, spear, custom cuts)
- Dog-ear picket (a slightly more casual profile)
Layout choices
- Spaced vs tight (visibility and airflow vs more privacy)
- Picket widths (narrow for classic, wider for bold curb appeal)
- Shadowbox-style picket (alternating pickets for depth)
- Mixed materials (wood pickets with metal posts/frames where needed)
Heights & rails
- Common heights: 3–4 ft for front yards; taller where allowed
- 2-rail vs 3-rail builds for stiffness and long spans
- Post spacing tuned to reduce sagging and racking
Louisiana-specific considerations
Louisiana picket fences need airflow and a build that resists moisture and movement. We plan for the conditions that cause warping, leaning, and hardware issues.
- Humidity + rot pressure: pick the right wood, use proper ground clearance, and seal/stain on schedule.
- Storms + wind: stronger posts, correct fasteners, and rail layout help prevent racking.
- Soil movement: clay and soft soils can shift—post depth, concrete, and spacing matter.
Materials, wood choices & finishes
We build picket fences in cedar and softwoods based on budget, style, and maintenance preference.
- Cedar: naturally rot- and insect-resistant with a premium look. Learn more on Cedar Wood Fences.
- Softwood / pine: cost-effective and widely available; best when properly treated and sealed. See Soft Wood Fences.
- Finishes: stain (transparent/semi-solid/solid), paint, or clear sealer—chosen for UV, moisture, and the look you want.
Common upgrades
- Post caps (wood, metal, solar)
- Walk gates with upgraded hinges and latches (see Walk Gates)
- Better hardware for coastal corrosion resistance
- Reinforced gate frames to reduce sagging over time
- Decorative accents (top rails, trim, lattice details where appropriate)
For more gate options, visit Gates and Entries.
Installation & process overview
1) Layout & spacing
We confirm the fence line and choose picket spacing that fits your goals and local requirements.
2) Posts set for stability
Post depth and concrete are selected for soil conditions and wind exposure to reduce leaning and movement.
3) Rails, pickets & gates
We build for straight lines, consistent reveals, and a smooth gate swing with durable hinges and latches.
Maintenance tips
- Keep soil and mulch below the pickets to reduce rot.
- Wash mildew and pollen off seasonally; re-seal or re-stain as needed.
- Check gate hinges/latches yearly and tighten hardware.
- After storms, inspect for leaning posts and loose fasteners.
Pricing factors (no exact prices)
- Wood choice: cedar vs treated pine/softwood
- Height, picket width, and spacing
- Post size and depth for soil conditions
- Number of gates and hardware upgrades
- Site conditions: slopes, roots, utilities, and access
- Finish work: stain/paint/seal and trim details
Related wood fence styles
Picket fence FAQs
What picket spacing is best for pets?
It depends on the pet size. We can recommend spacing that helps prevent squeezing through while keeping the classic picket look.
Is cedar worth it for picket fencing in Louisiana?
Cedar is a popular upgrade because it naturally resists rot and insects. It’s a great option if you want a premium look with strong durability.
Can you add a walk gate to a picket fence?
Yes—picket fences pair well with walk gates. We’ll reinforce the gate frame and use durable hinges and latches for smooth operation.
Ready to plan your picket fence?
Tell us your style, height, and gate needs. We’ll recommend the best build for your property and provide a clear estimate.