Enter Your Board-on-Board Fence Details
How the Board-on-Board Calculator Works
A board-on-board fence uses two rows of boards — front and back — with the back boards positioned to cover the gaps between front boards. This calculator figures out both board counts based on your chosen overlap percentage, then adds posts, rails, and concrete to give you a complete material list.
The overlap percentage controls how much each back board covers the adjacent front boards. At 25% overlap with 5.5-inch boards, each back board overlaps the front boards by about 1.4 inches on each side — enough to block all light even after wood shrinkage.
Why Choose Board-on-Board?
Board-on-board fencing is the premium choice for homeowners who want complete privacy and a finished look from both sides. Unlike standard privacy fences where one side shows the rails, board-on-board fences look attractive from your neighbor's side too. This makes them ideal for property lines where good fences make good neighbors.
The overlapping design also handles wood movement better than butt-joint privacy fences. As boards shrink and expand with seasonal humidity changes, the overlap ensures no gaps appear — a common complaint with standard privacy fences after the first year.
Board-on-Board vs. Other Fence Styles
Compared to a standard privacy fence, board-on-board uses 50-80% more boards but provides a two-sided finished look. Compared to a picket fence, board-on-board offers complete privacy at the cost of more material. If budget is the priority, our general fence calculator can help you compare styles side by side.
Installation Tips
- Use 3 horizontal rails per section — the double-sided board weight demands extra support
- Attach front boards first, then flip to the back and install back boards centered on the gaps
- Use a spacer block cut to your overlap width to keep back boards consistently positioned
- Set posts in concrete — 2 bags per post minimum for the heavier board-on-board sections (see our concrete calculator)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a board-on-board fence?
A board-on-board fence has boards attached to both sides of the rails, with the back row covering the gaps between the front row. This creates a fence that looks finished from both sides and provides complete privacy with no visible gaps.
How many more boards does board-on-board need?
Approximately 50-80% more boards than a standard privacy fence, depending on overlap. With standard 25% overlap using 5.5-inch boards, expect roughly 60% more boards.
How much overlap do the boards need?
A minimum of 1 inch per side is recommended. For 5.5-inch boards, 25% overlap (about 1.4 inches per side) is standard. Use 33% for maximum privacy after wood shrinkage.
How much does a board-on-board fence cost?
$25-$45 per linear foot for materials — about 50-80% more than a standard privacy fence. A 150-foot fence costs $3,750-$6,750 in materials.
Is board-on-board the same as shadow box?
No. Shadow box fences have gaps between both rows, allowing angled light through. Board-on-board overlaps enough to block all light and visibility completely.
Can I use standard fence kits for board-on-board?
No — standard kits are single-sided. Board-on-board requires individual posts, rails, and boards. Use 3 rails per section to support the extra weight.