The best fence for cutting noise is a solid, tall, gap-free fence with some mass to it, such as a board-on-board cedar fence or a FenceTrac composite panel. The more solid and dense the fence, the more street and neighbor noise it blocks. Empire Fence builds noise-reducing fences for homeowners across Tulsa and northeast Oklahoma.
Three things decide how much sound a fence stops.
| What Reduces Noise | Why |
|---|---|
| A solid surface, no gaps | Gaps let sound pass straight through |
| Mass and density | Heavier material blocks and absorbs more sound |
| Height | A taller fence blocks more of the sound path |
We have built solid privacy fences across northeast Oklahoma since 1955, and most qualifying new installations earn our Gold Seal Certificate of Excellence after a 31-point inspection.
How a Fence Reduces Noise
A fence reduces noise by blocking and absorbing the sound waves coming over your property line. Two rules apply. First, it has to be solid, since even small gaps let sound slip through, so a tight, gap-free fence works far better than a spaced or chain link one. Second, mass matters, because a heavier, denser fence stops more sound than a thin, light one. Height helps too, by putting more material in the path of the noise from a road or a neighbor.
The Best Fences for Noise
For the most noise reduction, we recommend a solid wood or composite fence built tall and tight:
- Board-on-board cedar. The overlapping pickets stay gap-free as the wood ages, and the wood adds mass. See what a board-on-board fence is.
- Solid cedar privacy. A 6-foot dog-ear or taller fence blocks a good deal of street noise, as our best fence for privacy guide covers.
- FenceTrac composite. A dense composite panel on a steel frame gives mass with low upkeep, as in the benefits of FenceTrac.
What a Fence Can and Cannot Do
A fence noticeably softens noise, but it will not soundproof your yard, and a semi-privacy or chain link fence does little for sound because of the gaps. To get the most from a noise fence, build it tall and solid, place it as close to the noise source as your property allows, and add dense landscaping behind it for extra absorption. We will help you weigh height and material against your budget.
Related Questions
Noise reduction questions from Tulsa homeowners.
Does a privacy fence block noise?
It helps. A solid privacy fence blocks and absorbs some street and neighbor noise, more so when it is tall, dense, and free of gaps. It softens noise rather than soundproofing the yard.
Is a taller fence better for noise?
Generally, yes. A taller fence puts more material in the path of the sound, so it blocks more of it. Pair the height with a solid, dense surface for the best result.
Does chain link reduce noise?
No. The open mesh lets sound pass right through. For noise, you want a solid fence with mass, like board-on-board cedar or a composite panel.
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