Fencing can transform your property in many ways, offering privacy and security while making your outdoor space more inviting. Whether you are looking to create a peaceful retreat, protect your garden from intruders, or simply mark the boundaries of your property, the right fence can make all the difference.
However, when it comes to choosing fencing for your garden, thereâs much more to consider than simply selecting a material. There are various fence panels and structures to choose from, ensuring the fence meets the specific needs of your home.
In this guide, we will explore the different materials, styles, and applications of fencing options, providing you with the information you need to make the right choice.
Understanding Your Needs
Before attempting to choose any fence materials, styles, or structures, it is important to take a step back and evaluate your needs and the purpose of the fence. Start by considering what your outdoor area will be used for, whether it be for a home garden, a countryside field, or a restaurant patio. The intended use of the space has a significant influence on the type of fencing required in terms of material, height, strength and style.
We recommend asking yourself the following questions to better understand your requirements:
- How much security do I need from my fence?
- How important is privacy for me in choosing a fence?
- What style and appearance do I want my fence to have?
- Do I want the fence to complement the look of my property and surroundings?
- How long do I want my fence to last?
- How much maintenance am I willing to do on my fence?
- Which materials are durable enough to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep?
- What is my budget for the fence?
Once you have a clear understanding of the answers to these questions, youâll be well-equipped to explore the various fencing options and determine which ones best meet your requirements.
Fence Posts
Fence posts are the essential structures that provide stability to the fence. They are installed deep into the ground to prevent movement, which is vital for keeping the fence upright during strong winds or from collapsing on its own.
Wooden
Wooden fence posts are commonly used with timber fence panels or without panels altogether. For example, farm fencing often uses wooden posts with wire and stock netting. Options for farming fencing include hexagonal wire netting, PVC Eurofence netting, and durable security fence netting. Whether you need netting with high tensile strength or not, farm fencing enables farmers to observe pens and fields without obstructing the view, as would happen with solid fence panels.
Concrete
Concrete fence posts are traditional structures made from concrete, providing strength and durability with a utilitarian appearance. Once installed, these posts can support fence panels for many years. However, over time, concrete can weaken, resulting in cracks or breakage due to repeated exposure to wind and frost. Although these posts are generally affordable, their weight can lead to higher handling and installation costs.
DuraPost
DuraPosts are a newer alternative to concrete posts. Made from galvanised steel, they are strong yet lightweight, making them easier to transport and install compared to concrete posts. DuraPosts also have a durable, corrosion-resistant coating that allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions without damage.Â
These posts are more modern and sleek in appearance, often in a dark charcoal grey, though other colour options are available, making them ideal for creating a contemporary garden design. While DuraPosts have a higher initial cost, they tend to last longer and incur lower installation costs.
Fence Panels
Fence panels are the sections of fencing that lie between the posts, providing protection from wind and ensuring privacy. There are many options to choose from in this area, depending on your needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget.Â
Below, we outline the different types of fence panels and their characteristics:
Solid Wood
Solid wood fence panels are the most traditional and recognisable type of fencing. They are composed of overlapping timber pieces within a timber frame to form individual panels. These panels offer a classic look and full coverage, preventing gaps and ensuring privacy. As timber requires regular treatment and painting to protect against weathering and rot, these panels can last many years with proper care.
Slatted Fencing
Slatted fencing is also typically made from timber, with slats spaced apart to create small gaps. This design provides a high level of privacy without completely blocking the view. Slatted fences offer a more contemporary, stylish appearance, enhancing the overall look of your garden while allowing light and air to filter through.
Pales
Pales, also known as picket fencing, are a more decorative type of fence often used to mark property boundaries without fully enclosing a space. This type of fencing is popular around cottages or rural gardens, providing a charming, traditional look. However, pales offer minimal privacy, as the significant gaps between the panels allow visibility into the garden. Furthermore, they are not particularly suited for areas requiring added security, as the pales are typically low and easy to climb over.
Trellis
Trellis fence panels are another popular choice, offering dual functionality. Trellis fencing can be used as a boundary between properties or sections of your outdoor space, while also serving as support for climbing plants such as vines, roses, or clematis. The lattice structure of the trellis enables plants to climb, adding greenery and visual interest to the garden. However, the gaps between the slats mean that the level of privacy depends on the amount of plant coverage.
Acoustic Fencing
Acoustic fencing is a type of fencing panel specifically designed to absorb sound, making it effective at reducing noise from nearby traffic, neighbours, or other sources. Often made from timber, these panels provide the same level of privacy as traditional timber fences by blocking unwanted views.Â
Acoustic fencing may be particularly suited to properties located near busy roads or motorways, where traffic noise is a concern. However, their specialised design, which meets the standards set in BS EN 1793 Road Traffic Noise Reducing Devices, makes them a more expensive option.
Decorative Elements
Whether you prefer a classic, simple design or a more elaborate style, there are numerous decorative elements that can be added to fencing to enhance its visual appeal and make it stand out.
Post Caps
Post caps are a decorative feature installed on top of fence posts. Typically square or circular at the base to align with the fence post, they often have sloping sides that form a pyramid or dome. Post caps not only add an intricate touch to the fence but also protect the fence posts from moisture and weather damage.
Finials
Finials are similar to post caps but are often more elaborate and decorative. They can be made from various materials, such as wood, metal, or stone, and come in a wide range of styles. From simple, classic balls to intricate acorns, finials add a personal touch to your fence.
Decorative Trellis
Trellis panels can be attached to the top of a fence to accommodate climbing plants, allowing them to grow over the fence and create a natural, beautiful display. Trellis panels can also be used to create privacy screens or add a decorative element to an otherwise plain fence.
Post Bases
Post bases are decorative coverings that sit at the base of fence posts. They come in a variety of materials and styles, providing a decorative touch to the bottom of the fence.
Quality Fencing Supplies at Hales Sawmills
At Hales Sawmills, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of fencing supplies to meet all your fencing needs. From sturdy farm fencing and practical acoustic fencing fence panels to stunning decorative elements, we have the perfect solution to suit every style and purpose.
With high-quality timber and bespoke craftsmanship, we ensure you find exactly what you are looking for.Â
Shop online or visit us in-store today and let us help you bring your fencing vision to life.