Here’s a checklist of points you should consider when planning a fence:

• Choose a style that suits both the purpose of the fence and the landscape, then maintain consistency of style throughout.
• Decide whether you’ll build the fence from scratch or from ready-made fencing sections.
• Select from rough or surfaced material for posts, rails and boards.
• Select solid boards with flat tops or choose from a variety of patterned-top boards such as pointed, dogeared, gothic, spearhead, roundtop and others.
• Decide whether short length pattern siding such as channel or tongue and groove V-joint will achieve the look you want.
• Consider using lattice panels alone or in combination with solid boards where a lighter, more open fence is desired.
• Decide on the type of finish. Transparent or semitransparent stains are suggested if a natural look is desired. Solid color stains are recommended if an opaque finish is desired.