• A shadowbox fence offers the same view to both neighbors.Carey Kirkella/Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  A shadowbox fence is designed to be attractive from both sides, unlike most fence designs in which one side has full view of the posts and supports while the other side enjoys a view of the attractive pickets. The shadowbox design alternates pickets on the front and back so each neighbor has the same view. Cities, counties and homeowners associations may have rules and code regulations governing the construction of fences, so homeowners should check this in advance. U.S. homeowners should call 811 a week or two before putting in a fence to have underground utilities marked. There is no cost for the service. It's an excellent idea to talk to neighbors in advance to ensure that no issues come up regarding property lines.
  
  

Tools

• A level line of pickets and posts looks professional.level image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
  
  Putting in a shadowbox fence requires only one special tool, a posthole digger. Posthole diggers are able to quickly create the tall, narrow hole needed for setting the fence posts. A shovel will dig a hole much wider than required and will waste concrete. Posthole diggers can be rented from some home improvement stores or tool rental stores or can be borrowed from a neighbor. Other required tools are a tape measure to determine the distance between posts, a level for setting the post and keeping the pickets even on top, a power drill, a hammer, a power saw for trimming pickets and a carpenter's pencil to mark the pickets for trimming.
  
  

Materials

• Gothic style pickets add style to the fence.fence image by Scarlett Chambers from Fotolia.com
  
  String and stakes will be used to mark the outline of the fence. Sturdy fence posts, 4-by-4 inches, spaced about 8 feet apart, will support the fence. About one third of the posts will be underground, embedded in cement. The posts should be a material that resists decay and termites; most fence posts are treated to boost this resistance. Pour gravel into the first 6 inches of the post hole to keep water from pooling around the post. Use quick drying ready mixed cement designed for setting posts. Horizontal framing boards, 2-by-4 inches, will support the pickets. The pickets should be 1-by-6 inches; the tops are milled in a variety of styles such as gothic, dog-eared and stockade. Pickets should be attached with corrosion-resistant nails or screws. The local building code will dictate the correct type.
  
  

Optional Items

• Fence panels can be purchased ready-made in 6- or 8-foot lengths, which makes the project easier. Gates or gate hinges and latches may be required. Decorative post tops can be added to make the posts interesting visually. These come in a variety of styles to complement the fence design.