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If you're standing in your backyard wondering, what is a stockade fence, the short answer is: the OG of privacy fences.
A stockade fence is made of wooden pickets placed tightly side-by-side with little to no spacing between them. It’s a design rooted in colonial-era forts—and still wildly popular today for families who want security, seclusion, and affordability in one clean, vertical line.
At Heartwood Fence, we’ve installed hundreds of stockade fences across Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and beyond. Whether you're protecting kids, dogs, or just your peace and quiet, it’s one of the most cost-effective ways to lock down your outdoor space without breaking the bank.
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Picture a row of pointed or flat wooden planks pressed tightly together like soldiers in formation. Each vertical board—called a picket—is nailed to horizontal support rails, which are attached to evenly spaced posts set in concrete.
Most stockade fences are 6–8 feet tall, making them an excellent option for full privacy. Depending on your aesthetic, you can choose picket styles like:
Whether you prefer simple and clean or a little more decorative, the beauty of stockade fences lies in their versatility—and their price.
Learn more about our mission and craftsmanship: About Heartwood Fence
There are no gaps between pickets. No peeking neighbors. No barking dogs losing their minds over every squirrel. A stockade fence gives you real, physical peace.
Wondering what is a stockade fence going to cost you? Good news: it’s one of the most affordable privacy fences in Virginia.
Tip: Ask about pressure-treated wood for a more budget-friendly build, or go with cedar for longer lifespan and insect resistance.
If your dog has a strong opinion about every passerby, or your toddler loves to explore, a stockade fence creates a secure barrier that contains what you love—and keeps out what you don’t.
Because the boards are tightly packed, a stockade fence works as a natural windbreak and reduces ambient noise. That’s a big plus in urban or busy suburban areas.
Wood is warm. Natural. Timeless. Paint it white for a colonial look, or stain it dark for modern drama. Unlike chain link or vinyl, a wooden stockade fence can flex to match your home’s personality.
Whether we install pickets one by one or use pre-made panels, our team gets the job done efficiently—with zero shortcuts.
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Depending on how it’s built, a stockade fence may have one finished side and one side with rails/posts. We’ll help you decide which direction to face the panels—and how to stay on good terms with the neighbors.
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Even the best fences come with a few trade-offs. So what is a stockade fence’s weak spot?
Wood fences require upkeep. Expect to paint, stain, or seal your stockade fence every 2–3 years to extend its life.
Over time, natural wood pickets may shrink, creating small gaps that slightly reduce privacy. Going with board-on-board or shadowbox styles can reduce this effect—but those cost more.
One side of the fence typically shows the supporting rails and posts. The other side shows the smooth face. If you’re particular about aesthetics, we can talk options like good-neighbor designs or double-sided builds.
Not all wood is created equal. Here's what’s popular in Virginia:
Not sure which is right? Get an instant quote with your preferred material.
Shadowbox Fence: Semi-private, better airflow, looks the same on both sides
Board-on-Board Fence: Overlapping pickets, premium privacy, higher cost
Vinyl Fence: Low maintenance, long lifespan, higher upfront cost
Chain Link + Privacy Slats: Cheaper, less attractive, semi-private
But here’s the deal: if you’re wondering “what is a stockade fence” because you want full privacy and a solid investment, stockade is hard to beat.
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Can you build a stockade fence yourself? Sure. But digging 30+ post holes, setting them in concrete, and aligning dozens of pickets isn’t for the faint of heart.
Most homeowners in Virginia prefer to hire pros for speed, accuracy, and code compliance. Our crew at Heartwood Fence handles:
Talk to our experts before you break ground.
What is a stockade fence best used for?
Privacy, pet containment, and noise reduction—especially in suburban neighborhoods.
How long does a stockade fence last?
Typically 10–20 years depending on wood type, weather exposure, and maintenance.
Can I customize the look of my fence?
Absolutely. From picket tops to stains and lattice accents, we’ll help you design it your way.
Do I need a permit in Virginia?
In most cities, yes—especially if your fence is over 6 feet. We’ll help you through the process.
What’s the fastest way to get a quote?
Use our online tool: Instant Price Calculator
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If you’ve been asking what is a stockade fence because you’re craving privacy, security, and a price that won’t give you sticker shock—this might be your match.
At Heartwood Fence, we specialize in custom fence builds for homeowners across Virginia. We’re veteran-owned, locally trusted, and proud to deliver honest craftsmanship you can count on.
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