With a seemingly endless supply of garden fence types on the market, and a whole range of fence posts and accessories to go with them, cultivating the perfect boundaries for your plot is easier said than done.
But before your head starts spinning at all the possibilities, allow us to give you a helping hand. In this article, we have put together a guide to selecting the best options from the different types of garden fencing available, whether your priority is maximising space, carving out a private zone for relaxation or simply creating a garden décor you can smile about.
Where to start with your decision-making
First things first, before we get to the fun part of choosing different types and styles of garden fencing, it’s important to take a step back and think about practical considerations such as materials, treatment and size. These elements will all have an impact on your fence’s overall durability and how snugly it will fit into your unique requirements – essentials to ensuring you’ll love your garden’s new look years down the line.
Step 1: Measure Up Your Plot
To choose the right garden fencing, you need to know the dimensions of your plot. Grab a measuring tape and take accurate measurements of the perimeter where you plan to install the fence. Be sure to note any irregularities or obstacles such as trees, shrubs, or uneven terrain that may affect the placement of your fence. Taking precise measurements will help you determine how much fencing material you need and ensure that your fence fits snugly within your property lines.
Step 2: Select Your Garden Fence Material
Once you have your measurements, your next step is to choose the material for your garden fence. There are several options available, each with its own advantages and considerations.
Cedar
Cedar fencing is renowned for its natural resistance to decay and insects, making it a popular choice for fences on residential and agricultural properties alike. Its rich, reddish-brown hue adds warmth and beauty to outdoor spaces, and it weathers gracefully over time, requiring minimal maintenance.
Pine
Pine fencing offers an affordable option with versatility in design. However, proper treatment is necessary to enhance its durability and prevent decay. With the right care, pine fences can provide a charming and functional boundary for your garden.
Redwood
Prized for its durability and natural resistance to decay, redwood timber boasts attractive colour variations, ranging from light pink to deep red. These fences are not only sturdy but also add a touch of elegance to outdoor spaces.
Pressure-treated wood
Pressure-treated wood, commonly made from pine or fir, is treated with preservatives to increase its durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. This type of fencing is an excellent choice for areas with high moisture levels or exposure to the elements, offering long-lasting protection for your garden.
Hardwood
Another brilliant choice, hardwood fencing offers exceptional strength and robustness, making it a top choice for those seeking a long-term fencing solution. While hardwood fencing may come at a higher cost, its elegance and longevity make it a worthwhile investment for enhancing the beauty and security of your garden.
Bamboo
Bamboo fencing is one of the most eco-friendly options thanks to the little required to cultivate it. Perfect for those seeking sustainable garden solutions, this material is lightweight yet durable and suitable for various designs requiring an airy, natural aesthetic.
Composite
Composite wood fencing blends wood fibres with plastic, resulting in a low-maintenance and hard-wearing option. Resistant to rot, decay, and insects, composite fencing offers the look of traditional wood without the upkeep, making it an attractive choice for modern garden designs.
Choosing the garden fence type(s) for you
Okay, it’s time for the most interesting part! Now that you have the basic groundwork laid out, we can explore the various types of garden fencing.
Step 3: Browse Different Types of Garden Fencing
When considering garden fencing, it’s essential to explore the diverse range of options available to suit your specific needs and preferences. Besides height and gap width, strength and robustness are key – particularly as we’re seeing more and more extreme UK storms year on year. There are four main types of garden fencing, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic appeal.
Solid Fencing
Solid fencing provides the ultimate solution for privacy and security. These fence panels are constructed without gaps between the slats or pales, creating a robust timber screen that ensures complete concealment and protection from intruders.
Types of solid fencing include:
Semi-solid Fencing
Semi-solid fencing panels strike a balance between privacy and visibility, making them one of the best types of fencing for gardens. With horizontal slats or pales featuring small gaps between each, these panels allow light and air to pass through while still providing a level of privacy. They are ideal for creating garden dividers or feature panels that add style to outdoor spaces.
Types of semi-solid fencing include:
Decorative Fencing
Decorative fencing panels serve as both functional barriers and aesthetic enhancements for your garden. Featuring various designs and patterns, these panels can make a statement or frame your garden, adding visual interest and personality to outdoor spaces.
Types of decorative fencing include:
Garden Trellis
Garden trellis fencing offers versatility and charm, serving as a garden screen or topper panel to complement existing fencing. Trellis panels are constructed with quality materials and craftsmanship, providing support for climbing plants while allowing sunshine to filter through.
Types of garden trellis include:
Step 4: Ensure Your Fence is Treated (If Required)
Once you’ve chosen the best type of fencing for your garden’s needs, it’s important to ensure that it’s properly treated to withstand the elements. Depending on the material you’ve selected, this may involve applying a sealant, stain, or paint to protect the material from rot, insects, and moisture damage.
When purchasing timber fences, you can make your life a little bit easier by selecting wood that has been tanalised – this process ensures that both the panels and posts are as sturdy as possible.
Step 5: Decide on Your Fence Posts and Accessories
The next step is to choose the appropriate fence posts and accessories to complete your fencing project. Fence posts provide structural support and come in various materials such as wood, metal, or concrete, depending on the level of protection you require from high and waterlogged earth.
You’ll also need to consider accessories like gate hardware, post caps, and decorative accents to add those eye-catching finishing touches.
Step 6: Adding Gates or Garden Arches
Finally, if your garden fence includes access points, such as gates or garden arches, now is the time to install them. Gates provide entry and exit points to your garden while also enhancing its overall aesthetic. Garden arches can serve as decorative focal points and support climbing plants, adding vertical interest to your outdoor space along with a hint of whimsy.
Over to you
With these steps in mind, you’re well on your way to selecting the perfect garden fencing for your plot. Remember to consider your practical needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget when making your decisions.
To explore an inspiring range of garden fence types and get the ball rolling talk to us and we’ll sort you out.
