Tri-State Fence & Deck installs cost-effective split-rail and ranch fences across the tri-state region—New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. As a licensed residential fence contractor based in Sewell, NJ, we specialize in open-style perimeter fencing designed specifically for large properties, equestrian facilities, and rural homeowners.
Our licensed contractors deliver precise installations that define property boundaries without blocking visibility. From South Jersey's varied soils to the region's harsh winter conditions, our family-run team draws on 20 years of residential fence installation experience in South Jersey, Southeastern PA, and Northern Delaware.
Tri-State Fence & Deck Inc. (484) 446-5793 Sewell, NJ 08080

Typical Start Time
2–3 Weeks
Estimates Scheduled Within
1–3 Business Days
Current Booking
Limited Availability for Upcoming Projects

A split-rail fence (also known as a post-and-rail fence) is an open-style fencing system made of horizontal rails fitted into routed posts, typically used to define property boundaries without obstructing visibility. Split-rail fences are popular for large properties, equestrian facilities, and rural estates where clear demarcation is needed without the visual weight of solid privacy fencing.


Split-rail fencing works best for:
Important: Split-rail fencing may not be ideal if:

Whether you are marking a large property line in Harrison Township or containing pets in Moorestown, we build split-rail systems tailored to your specific needs.




Most fence failures we replace result from shortcuts in installation—not the material itself. Understanding these failure points is exactly why our process is engineered the way it is.
Our installation process is designed to prevent every one of these failure points—so your property boundary remains secure and functional.

South Jersey's soils vary significantly—from sandy loam in much of Gloucester County to clay-rich pockets near waterways in Camden and Salem. Where clay soils are present, they retain moisture and accelerate freeze-thaw damage.
For nearly 20 years, Tri-State Fence & Deck has engineered our installation process to handle these ground-movement challenges. Led by owner Ed Torres, our family-run team understands exactly how those conditions affect long-term stability. We sink every split-rail post to the depth required by local code—typically 30 to 36 inches—and use heavy-duty bell footings to ensure your perimeter stays straight and stable through the first winter and beyond.
Our installation process is designed to prevent every one of these failure points—so your property boundary remains secure and functional.

We do not use big-box store lumber prone to warping in South Jersey's humid summers. Our installations use agricultural-grade materials rated for the tri-state region's humidity and temperature swings.

Before any excavation begins, we verify your property survey pins to ensure the fence sits exactly where it belongs. We then contact New Jersey One Call at least three full business days—and no more than ten—prior to excavation, as required by New Jersey law. We wait for the official paint and flags, then carefully hand-dig or hydro-vac within two feet of any marked utility to ensure zero disruptions to your property.
Split-rail fences carry less wind load than privacy fences, but ground movement remains a critical factor. We dig our terminal and line post holes to the depth required by local zoning—typically 30 to 36 inches—and use high-PSI concrete poured into bell-shaped footings, doming the top slightly above grade to shed water away from the post and prevent ground-level corrosion.
We use agricultural-grade posts and rails with stainless-steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners that will not rust or weaken over time. Each rail is seated firmly in the post-routed slots, and we verify alignment and tension before final inspection. Every component—posts, rails, and optional mesh—is installed as an integrated system to handle the ground movement, moisture, and seasonal shifts specific to this region.
Every Tri-State project starts with a detailed, line-item quote valid for 30 days. Once you provide the 50% deposit, we handle the material ordering and utility coordination, typically putting our crews on your property within 2 to 3 weeks.
Recent
Split-Rail
Projects
Check out some of our recent
ranch fence
projects, or click here to see all past
ranch fence
projects.


Our 3-year transferable workmanship warranty covers any installation defect—including post movement, rail separation, and gate misalignment. It excludes only damage from severe impact, flooding, or failure to perform recommended annual maintenance. This is backed by our 20 years of local expertise and our status as a fully licensed (13VH13604500), insured, and bonded contractor.
Our Process—Simple, Transparent & Local
We’ve refined our process to make every project predictable, transparent, and code-compliant.

1. Plan & Measure
Site visit, utility marking, and township review. You’ll receive a written proposal with an itemized scope and estimated timeline.

2. Schedule & Build
Once your 50% deposit is received, materials are ordered, and permitting begins. Most projects start within 2–3 weeks.

3. Walkthrough & Warranty
We inspect together before final payment and issue your workmanship warranty certificate.
Most NJ municipalities require a zoning permit for fence installation, including open-style fencing, though requirements vary by township. Processing times vary by municipality—we verify local requirements for every project and handle the permit application on your behalf.
We provide free estimates tailored to your specific project, materials, and site conditions. Costs vary based on total linear footage, material choice (pine vs. cedar), and whether you are adding welded wire mesh. Contact us for a detailed quote valid for 30 days.
Yes. By attaching galvanized welded wire mesh to the inside of a 3-rail fence, we create a secure pet barrier that's difficult to see from a distance.
When properly maintained, a pressure-treated pine or cedar split-rail fence can last 15 to 20+ years. The key to this longevity is proper post-drainage and routine sealing or staining.
We dig every split-rail post hole to the depth required by local zoning and consistent with the frost line in South Jersey—typically 30 to 36 inches—and ensure proper drainage at the post base to prevent frost heave.
Pressure-treated pine is the most popular and cost-effective choice for large properties in the tri-state region. Western Red Cedar is an excellent upgrade for its natural rot resistance and dimensional stability.
We install premium split-rail and ranch fences across the region, navigating local codes and soil conditions in:
We serve communities throughout Gloucester County, Camden County, and Burlington County, as well as Southeastern Pennsylvania and Northern Delaware. Whether you're upgrading a suburban backyard or fencing a large rural property, our family-run team brings nearly two decades of local expertise to every installation across the tri-state area.
EXPLORE OTHER OPTIONS
Not sure split-rail is the right style for your property?

Are you looking for a partner to help you take your outdoor aspirations from dream to reality? Contact us today, and we will be in touch soon to help you get started with the initial details.
(484) 446-5793 contact@tristatefenceanddeck.com
A properly installed split-rail fence doesn’t just mark your property—it gives you confidence that your land is clearly defined and built to last.