There are many different types of fences, here is a small guide to help you decide what type of fence you are going to want. Things to consider: Budget, purpose of the fence, longterm maintenance requirements & height requirements/restrictions.
Close Board/ Feather Edge Fencing.
A strong, solid fence constructed with overlapping vertical feather-edge wooden boards. This type of fencing is commonly used in back gardens – it’s a medium budget option, neat and attractive, offering good privacy and providing some shelter to delicate shrubs.
Pros:
- Ideal for most gardens
- Robust and long-lasting
- Its height (usually 6ft) provides security
- Provides privacy
- Deters intruders
- Good for pet owners
- Available in either concrete & wooden posts
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Its closed-up boards can be buffeted by strong winds, though it’s stronger than a larch lap fence panel
- Maintenance required
Larch lap
Larch-lap panel fencing is a common type of budget fencing made of horizontal slats. Like close board fencing, it can be used with either timber or concrete posts and gravel boards, with the same advantages and disadvantages to these as explained above. Although offering good value, larch-lap panel fencing is not as robust as close board fencing being more prone to damage in high winds.
Pros:
- Suitable for most gardens
- Cheaper than close board
- Provides privacy
- Deters intruders
- Ideal for homes with pets
Cons:
- Not as robust or long-lasting as close board fencing
- Maintenance required to prolong the life of the timber
Timber/palisade fencing
If you want a look that’s traditional and decorative, you might consider timber palisade fencing, more commonly known as picket fencing. Picket fences are mostly seen in front gardens, where they give a home traditional kerb appeal.
Although wood is the conventional material, picket fencing can also be made from PVC for a lower maintenance option. There are a few disadvantages to using PVC however: temperature change can make it brittle, prone to mould and it can be more expensive than wood.
The style of fencing is usually quite low. With its spacing between the timbers, is less prone to wind damage.
Pros:
- A good option for front gardens
- Ideal to protect ponds or swimming pools
- Provides a good boundary marker
- Traditional, attractive looks
- Lets light through / doesn’t block your view
- Less prone to wind damage
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide privacy
- Doesn’t provide much security
- Would not contain some dogs
- Some maintenance required to protect timber
Slatted Fencing
Slatted Fence Panels give a more sleek, more contemporary look to your outside space, ideal if privacy is not an issue. They can make great dividers for different sections of your garden. The effect of sunlight slanting through the gaps is particularly attractive.
Pros:
- Available in a range of heights and styles
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Horizontal slats can make your garden appear longer
- Gaps between slats allow wind through, reducing resistance and improving longevity
Cons:
- Don’t offer complete privacy on a boundary
- Can let weeds grow through
Post and rail fencing
Post and rail fencing can offer a more rustic look to you home. This type of fencing offers a boundary to keep pets in your property. Post and rail are often used in equestrian environments.
Pros:
- Doesn’t block out sunlight
- Allows wind to pass through
- Has a long life expectancy
- Looks great in rural environments
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer complete privacy
- Weeds may grow through
