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  • Writer's pictureMidwest Fence & Gate

Guide to Picket and Post Styles for Your Wood Fence


White fence behind green garden.

The various styles of pickets and posts available for wood fences not only serve practical purposes but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of your property. By harmonizing your fence style with your home's architecture, you can achieve a cohesive and visually pleasing exterior that reflects your unique taste and style.


Interested? Read on to delve into five popular picket and post styles: dog ear, flat top, French Gothic, Gothic, and Gothic post.


Why Choose a Dog Ear Picket Style Fence?

This classic style, known for its squared-off top resembling a dog's ear, adds charm and simplicity to any property with its distinctive look.


A Touch of Americana

The dog-ear picket style is deeply rooted in American architectural history. Its origins can be traced back to Colonial and Cape Cod homes. Today, this enduring style continues to evoke a sense of Americana, making it a perfect fit for a wide range of home styles, from traditional to contemporary.


Versatility in Design

One of the key reasons behind the enduring popularity of dog ear picket fences is their versatility in design. The straightforward yet elegant silhouette complements a variety of architectural styles. Whether your home boasts colonial, Cape Cod, ranch, or even Craftsman influences, the dog ear picket style seamlessly integrates with the overall aesthetic.


Classic Appeal with a Modern Twist

There is a classic and historical appeal to dog ear pickets, yet it lends itself well to modern interpretations. If you seek a timeless look with a contemporary edge, the clean lines and simplicity of the dog ear design provide the perfect balance.


Easy Maintenance

Practicality is another significant advantage of the dog ear picket style. The design allows for efficient water runoff, reducing the risk of water damage and rot.


Why Choose a Flat Top Picket Style Fence?

Featuring clean horizontal lines and an unadorned design, the flat-top picket fence offers a contemporary alternative to traditional fencing.


Contemporary Elegance

The defining feature of the flat top picket style is its horizontal, straight-across profile. This simplicity exudes a contemporary elegance that seamlessly integrates with modern architectural designs. Whether you have a midcentury modern, ranch, or minimalist-inspired home, the flat-top picket fence complements these styles, adding a touch of sophistication to your property.


Enhanced Visibility

The flat top design not only contributes to the modern appeal of the fence but also ensures enhanced visibility of your property. With a more open and airy feel compared to some traditional styles, flat-top picket fences allow for better sightlines.


Why Choose a French Gothic Picket Style Fence?

An elegant style with pointed tops inspired by European cathedral architecture, this style provides a sense of sophistication and charm.


European Inspired Grace

The French Gothic picket style draws inspiration from the ornate architecture of European cathedrals and historic structures. The pointed tops of the pickets mimic the graceful arches and peaks found in Gothic design. If you are a fan of European-inspired aesthetics, the French Gothic picket style is a natural choice for your property.


Versatility in Aesthetics

Despite its European roots, the French Gothic picket style effortlessly adapts to various architectural influences. This versatility allows it to complement a range of home styles, including French provincial, cottage, Victorian, and even some traditional American designs.


Visual Appeal

The pointed arches and scalloped tops of French Gothic pickets contribute to an elegant visual appeal that sets this style apart. Unlike trends that come and go, the French Gothic picket style embodies a timeless charm that transcends eras. Whether your home has a rich history or is a new construction, this picket style seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, creating a sense of permanence and classic beauty that lasts for generations.


Why Choose a Gothic Picket Style Fence?

Brown fence with wire above it.

This distinctive style features pointed picket tops to add an element of sophistication inspired by medieval European design.


Medieval Inspiration

The Gothic picket style draws inspiration from the grandeur of medieval European architecture, specifically the Gothic Revival period. The pointed tops of the pickets mirror the arches and spires found in cathedrals and castles from this era.


Versatile Aesthetics

Despite its historical roots, the Gothic picket style effortlessly complements various architectural styles. Whether your home boasts Tudor, Victorian, or even colonial influences, this style seamlessly integrates with its surroundings.


Dramatic Visual Impact

The pointed arches and sharp tops of Gothic picket fences contribute to a dramatic visual impact that sets this style apart. The play between light and shadow created by the pointed pickets adds depth and character to the fence, turning it into a focal point of your property. The vertical lines and ornate details create an aesthetic that is both commanding and elegant.


Why Choose a Gothic Post Fence?

This style is characterized by pointed finials on the posts and pickets, adding an extra layer of visual interest.


A Unified Aesthetic

What sets Gothic post-fencing apart is its commitment to a unified aesthetic. The pointed finials create a cohesive and striking visual impact that transforms your fence into a work of art.


Medieval Inspiration

The Gothic post style is an homage to the craftsmanship and romanticism of the past.


Dramatic Silhouettes

The pointed tops contribute to the dramatic silhouettes that define Gothic post-fencing. The play between light and shadow created by these pointed elements adds depth and character to the fence. This attention to detail ensures that your fence not only serves its practical purpose but also stands out as a visually striking feature.


When selecting the right picket and post style for your wood fence, you should consider not only your personal preferences but also the architectural style of your home. Whether you opt for the classic dog ear, contemporary flat top, elegant French Gothic, or historical Gothic styles, each choice can enhance the overall aesthetic of your property.


At Midwest Fence & Gate Company, we install a range of stylish fences in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Contact us today!

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