Post and rail cedar fence along a flowering cherry blossom path installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut
Post & Rail Fencing

Open Land, Defined Beautifully

The most natural way to mark your property. Post and rail fencing defines boundaries without blocking the landscape, giving Connecticut properties a timeless, open look rooted in New England tradition. Every rail we install is hand-selected and set by our own crew right here in East Hampton.

46+
Years of Service
100%
In-House Crews
4.9★
Customer Rating
CT
Licensed & Insured
Post and rail gate opening to a scenic mountain meadow in Connecticut
Meadow Gate
Estate-style square rail fence lining a Connecticut driveway installed by Arrow Fence
Estate Rail
Four-rail cedar board fence showing horizontal board style installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut
Board Rail
The Classic Choice

Connecticut's Most Timeless Fence

Long before vinyl panels and aluminum pickets, there were split rails. Post and rail fencing is the original New England boundary marker. It's the fence you picture when you think of rolling farmland, stone walls, and country roads lined with autumn color.

At Arrow Fence, we build and install post and rail fencing in western red cedar and locust. Each material has its strengths, and we'll help you choose the right one based on your property, your budget, and the look you're after. Whether you need a simple 2-rail boundary marker or a 4-rail horse enclosure with wire mesh, we handle it all with our own crew.

Rail fencing works with the land instead of against it. It follows slopes, wraps around trees, and blends naturally with gardens, stone walls, and existing landscaping. It's the fence that makes your property look like it's always been there.

Configurations

Choose Your Rail Setup

Rail fencing comes in several configurations and wood species. The right choice depends on what you're enclosing, the look you want, and your terrain.

Traditional split rail fence with wire mesh backing installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut
Traditional

Split Rail

The classic New England look. Hand-split cedar rails set into mortised posts create the rustic, open boundary that Connecticut is known for. Available in 2, 3, and 4-rail configurations with optional wire mesh for pet and pool containment.

Decorative & Borders · ~36" Height
Four-rail horizontal board fence in cedar installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut
Contemporary

Board Rail

Smooth, milled horizontal boards mounted between posts for a cleaner, more contemporary look. Board rail fencing offers a modern alternative to traditional split rail while maintaining the open, agricultural character. Popular for larger properties and equestrian use.

All-Purpose · ~48" Height · Mesh Optional
Estate-style square rail fence along a driveway installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut
Refined

Estate Rail

Square-cut posts and rails for a polished, formal appearance. Estate rail fencing is the go-to choice for front yards, driveway borders, and upscale residential properties where you want the open feel of rail fencing with a more refined, architectural finish.

Square Posts · Painted or Natural · Formal Style
Popular Uses

Where Post & Rail Belongs

Rail fencing suits a wide range of Connecticut properties. Here are the most common ways our customers put it to work.

Cedar farm-style post and rail gate installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut

Property Lines & Acreage

The most natural way to define your boundaries. Marks your lot clearly without creating a visual wall, preserving the open rural character that Connecticut homeowners love.

Split rail fence enclosing a Connecticut backyard installed by Arrow Fence

Pet Enclosures

Add wire mesh behind the rails to keep dogs safely contained while preserving the rustic look. Your pets get the run of the yard, and you keep the aesthetic you love.

California-style horizontal board rail fence around a pool area in Connecticut

Pool Surrounds

Rail fencing with mesh backing creates a code-friendly barrier around above-ground and in-ground pools while keeping the casual backyard feel that solid fencing can't match.

Western red cedar split rail fence along a Connecticut roadway

Roadside & Driveways

Line your driveway entrance or road frontage with split rail for a welcoming boundary that defines your property from the street without feeling closed off.

Custom double gate on a post and rail fence installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut

Custom Gates

Every rail fence needs an entry point. We build custom single and double gates to match any rail style — split, board, or estate. Farm gates, drive gates, and walk gates, all built in our shop.

Rail fence with picket gate and arbor entry installed by Arrow Fence in Connecticut

Arbors & Entries

Combine rail fencing with a custom arbor and picket gate for a stunning property entrance. We design and build arbor structures that pair perfectly with any rail fence style.

Why Rail Fencing

The Advantages of Going Open

Not every property needs a solid barrier. Here's why thousands of Connecticut homeowners choose post and rail over closed fencing styles.

Preserves Your Views

Rail fencing marks your boundaries without blocking sightlines. You keep the view of your landscape, your gardens, and the natural surroundings that make your property special.

Most Affordable Option

Less material per linear foot than any other fence type. For large properties and long runs, rail fencing is the most cost-effective way to define your perimeter.

Naturally Durable

Western red cedar resists rot and insects without chemical treatment. Either way, rail fencing handles Connecticut's seasons beautifully.

Works with Any Terrain

Rails follow the natural contour of your land. Hills, slopes, curves around trees and boulders. It adapts to Connecticut's rocky, rolling landscape better than any rigid panel.

Fast Installation

Fewer components mean quicker turnaround. Most residential rail fence projects are completed in one to two days, minimizing disruption to your property and schedule.

New England Character

Nothing says Connecticut like a split rail fence. It adds instant curb appeal and a sense of history, whether you're in a rural setting or a suburban neighborhood.

Common Questions

Post & Rail FAQ

Here are the questions Connecticut homeowners ask most about post and rail fencing.

"Split rail" refers to rails split from logs, giving them a rough, hand-hewn texture. "Post and rail" is the broader category that includes both split and milled (square-cut) rails. Both use horizontal rails set into vertical posts. We install both styles and can help you choose based on the look you prefer.
On its own, no. Rail fencing is open. But we add wire mesh or welded wire behind the rails to create a full enclosure. This is one of our most popular upgrades. You get the rustic look from the outside with complete containment for dogs of all sizes.
Western red cedar rails typically last 15 to 20 years or more with no maintenance. Posts last longest when set in gravel rather than concrete, allowing water to drain. Rail fencing holds up well in Connecticut's climate with minimal upkeep.
Two-rail is for decorative borders and light boundaries. Three-rail is the most popular for general use, providing a substantial look without being imposing. Four-rail is for horse paddocks and livestock. We'll recommend the right configuration during your estimate based on your needs.
This is where rail fencing shines. The rails follow the grade naturally, stepping up or down as needed. Unlike panel fencing that requires level sections, rail flows with the terrain. Our crews handle Connecticut's rocky soil every day.
Not unless you want to. Most customers let it weather naturally to a silver-gray patina. That's part of the appeal. If you prefer the original color, a UV-protective stain can be applied every few years, but it's rarely done with rail fencing because the natural aging is part of the charm.
Rail fencing is the most affordable fence type per linear foot. Pricing depends on the number of rails, wood species, total footage, terrain, and whether you want wire mesh. We provide free on-site estimates with clear pricing. For large properties, the savings over solid fence styles are significant.
Get Started

Ready for Your Rail Fence?

Tell us about your property and we'll schedule a free on-site estimate. We'll walk your fence line, discuss material options, and give you a clear, honest quote.

Visit Our Workshop
192 East High Street (Route 66)
East Hampton, CT 06424
Hours
Mon-Fri: 8am - 5pm
Sat: 8am - 12pm
Sun: Closed
The Arrow Fence Inc. crew at their East Hampton Connecticut workshop
CT Licensed
HIC.0537503
BBB Accredited
Since 2008
In-House Crews
No Subcontractors
4.9★ Rated
Angi & Houzz

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