Shadow Box Fence
The shadow box fence — also called a “good neighbor” fence — alternates cedar boards on opposite sides of the horizontal rails. Each side of the fence looks identical and finished, eliminating the “good-side / bad-side” conversation on shared property lines while letting subtle airflow pass through the staggered panels.
Why homeowners choose a shadow box fence
Finished both sides
Each face of the fence looks identical. No rails-visible “bad side,” so the fence reads as intentional from either yard.
Airflow between panels
Staggered boards let air pass through. Helpful on tight lots where a solid wall would block breeze and dry-out cycles.
Strong privacy at normal viewing angles
Boards on the opposite side cover the gaps when viewed straight on. Privacy holds across most sightlines, with a small angled view by design.
Better drying = longer life
Airflow between staggered boards dries the cedar faster after Pacific Northwest rain, slowing the rot that accelerates on solid-wall fences.
How we build shadow box fences (our standard)
- Two or three 2x4 cedar rails screwed directly into posts for strength and consistent board alignment.
- #1 grade cedar pickets alternated on both sides of the rails — each board overlaps the gap on the opposite side for visual privacy.
- Board reveal calibrated so the staggered pattern reads consistently down the entire run.
- Pre-stained cedar where requested, so the finish is sealed before panels go in the ground.
- Stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners throughout to prevent rust streaking down the cedar.
- Standard posts: 4.125" x 4.125" x 9' set ~2' deep with ~180 lbs of properly mixed concrete and gravel drainage beneath each footing.
- Optional top cap available — a 2x4 finished cap board spanning the run protects exposed end grain at the top of the boards.
Use our Virtual Quote Tool below for an instant estimate on your specific run.
Shadow box vs. solid board: which is right for you?
Choose shadow box when:
- Your fence runs along a shared property line and both yards see the fence daily.
- You want airflow between panels — useful on narrow side-yards or close-set homes.
- Neighbor relations matter and you'd rather skip the “which side gets the good side” conversation.
- You want a fence that reads as a higher-quality installation from every angle.
Choose solid board when:
- Maximum privacy is the priority and angled sightlines are unacceptable.
- Budget is the deciding factor — solid board uses less cedar per foot.
- The fence backs onto a greenbelt, alley, or common space where the “back” face won't be seen by a neighbor.
- Wind blocking is desired (solid wall blocks more air movement than staggered boards).
See our Solid Board Fence page for direct comparison, or our Picture Frame Fence for a step up in finished appearance.
See the shadow box style up close
A quick look at the alternating cedar boards that give the shadow box fence its name. Notice how each board overlaps the gap on the opposite side — that staggered layout is what creates the identical, finished appearance from either yard while still letting a hint of light and airflow pass through the panels.
Want this same look along your property line? Get a free shadow box quote.
Shadow box fence pricing
Cedar shadow box installations typically range from $44–$64 per linear foot for a six-foot fence. Shadow box uses slightly more cedar than a comparable solid board fence because boards alternate on both sides of the rails — you're paying for the finished-both-sides appearance. Custom gates, longer runs, sloped lots, and tight access conditions affect the exact quote.
Recent shadow box installations
Frequently asked questions
What is a shadow box fence?
A shadow box fence alternates cedar boards on opposite sides of the horizontal rails. Each board overlaps the gap between the boards on the other side, so both faces of the fence look identical with subtle airflow passing through the staggered pattern.
Why is it called a “good neighbor” fence?
Most privacy fences have a smooth “good side” and a rail-and-post “bad side.” Shadow box construction eliminates that distinction — each face is identical, so there's no front or back to negotiate with your neighbor.
Does it provide full privacy?
Mostly. Viewed straight on, the boards on the opposite side cover the gaps. At a sharp angle you can catch limited visibility through the staggered gaps — by design — which also allows airflow.
How long does it last in the Pacific Northwest?
A properly installed cedar shadow box fence typically lasts 15–25 years. Airflow between the alternating boards actually helps longevity by drying the cedar faster after rain.