Snake fencing sometimes called zig-zag fence, is the most recognizable split rail fence. The snake rails are triangular in shape and around 6″per side in size They are stacked in either an alternating one up one down pattern or an overlapping (shingled) pattern which works best if you are going up a slope or over uneven ground. Most customers find that with a few instructions they can install this fence themselves. Though it was traditionally used for containing stock, we see it used more as garden accents or to improve the look of driveways, rather than functional fencing these days.
A useful tool to calculate the number of rails you will need is divide the length of your fence by 3/4 the length of your rails, which equals the number of panels you need (round up or down) then multiply by the desired height in feet i.e. 3′ high fence requires 3 layers per panel with this equation the fence is totally free standing and only needs nailing to prevent rail theft or if you have animals or children that might roll the top rail. We also recommend placing the bottom rail on a brick or a short piece of split rail to slow down the deterioration of the bottom rail traditionally as the bottom rail rotted away a new rail was placed on top to keep the original height.