Most fencing problems start at ground level. A fence panel can still be in reasonable condition, but if the posts were poorly set or timber posts have begun to rot where they meet the ground, the whole run can start leaning or moving.
That is why we look at the ground conditions and post installation as closely as the fencing itself.
Fencing is one of the jobs we are asked about most at Element Landscapes. It affects privacy and security, but it also changes how finished the rest of the garden feels. A new patio, lawn or planting scheme can quickly be let down by a tired boundary running alongside it.
Choosing the Right Type of Garden Fencing
There is no single fence that suits every garden. The right choice depends on what the boundary needs to do, the style of the property and how exposed the site is.
Close Board Fencing
Close board fencing is made from overlapping vertical feather-edge boards fixed to horizontal rails. It is one of the options we use most frequently where privacy and a strong boundary are the main priorities.
Individual boards can also be replaced if one becomes damaged rather than replacing an entire panel.
The quality of the posts matters just as much as the boards. In many gardens, we recommend concrete posts and gravel boards because they remove timber from direct contact with wet ground.
Lap Panel Fencing
Lap panels are pre-made panels formed from overlapping horizontal timber. They are generally quicker to install and can be a more economical option than close board fencing.
They work well where a straightforward garden boundary is needed, and maximum strength or privacy is not the main concern.
The life of the finished fence still depends heavily on the posts and how they have been installed.
Cedar and Contemporary Timber Screening
Cedar cladding and slatted timber can work well where the fence is intended to form part of the garden design rather than disappear into the background.
Cedar can be left untreated and allowed to weather naturally or maintained if you want to retain more of its original colour.
This type of fencing is often used around patios, seating areas or other parts of a garden where the boundary will be clearly visible.
Trellis
Trellis can be fitted above fencing to provide additional screening while keeping the boundary visually lighter.
It is also useful where climbing plants form part of the planting design.
Gates
It usually makes sense to plan gates at the same time as the fence. Heights, timber, fixings and finishes can then be matched rather than trying to add something later.
We install pedestrian garden gates as well as larger timber gates where required.
Deer and Stock Fencing
Larger plots and more rural properties sometimes need a completely different approach.
Deer or stock fencing can protect planting or define a boundary without creating the solid visual barrier of conventional garden fencing.
What Affects the Cost of Garden Fencing?
Giving an accurate fencing price without seeing the boundary is difficult because the panels or timber are only part of the job.
The main factors are:
- The length and height of the fence
- The style of fencing selected
- The type of posts and gravel boards
- Ground conditions
- Site access
- Whether existing fencing or concrete needs to be removed
- The number and type of gates required
- Decorative capping and other finishing details
- Bespoke timber work
A straight run across level, accessible ground is a very different job from a boundary running through tree roots, changing levels or a narrow side passage.
This is why we normally look at the boundary before providing a quotation.
Why Post Installation Matters
This is one of the parts of fencing that homeowners rarely see once the job is finished, but it has a major effect on how long the fence lasts.
Posts need to be positioned accurately, set to the right depth for the job, and properly secured. The complete run then needs to remain straight and level as the panels or boards are fitted.
Poor post installation can leave a new fence looking fine initially but moving once it has been through strong wind and wet winter conditions.
We generally favour concrete posts in gardens where longevity is a priority.
Timber posts can work well, but the point where timber sits around soil level is particularly vulnerable to moisture and decay.
Does Garden Fencing Need Planning Permission?
Most ordinary residential fencing in England falls within permitted development limits.
As a general rule, a fence next to a highway used by vehicles should not exceed 1 metre without planning permission. For most other boundaries, the normal limit is 2 metres.
Different rules can apply to listed buildings, properties affected by planning conditions or Article 4 directions, and some work within conservation areas.
If there is any doubt, check the position and proposed height with the local planning authority before work begins.
Our Fencing Installation Process
Every project begins with a site visit. We look at the existing boundary, ground conditions, access, and what you want the new fence to achieve.
Privacy may be the priority in one garden. Somewhere else it may be security, screening or replacing a boundary that has simply reached the end of its life.
Once the type of fencing has been agreed, we plan the posts, boards or panels, gates and finishing details together.
Existing fencing is removed where necessary, and the new posts are set before the rest of the boundary is installed.
Alignment and levels are checked throughout rather than corrected at the end.
The final stage is fitting capping, trims, gravel boards and gates where required, followed by clearing the site.
Can Part of an Existing Fence Be Replaced?
Often, yes.
A damaged section can sometimes be repaired or replaced without renewing the whole boundary. The main question is whether the remaining posts and panels are sound enough to justify keeping.
Matching an older fence can also be difficult if the original timber has weathered considerably, so we will normally explain what the repaired section is likely to look like before proceeding.
How Long Should Garden Fencing Last?
There is no useful single figure because the lifespan depends on the materials, posts, exposure and maintenance.
A fence protected from severe wind and installed on sound posts will generally last much longer than the same fencing on an exposed site with poorly set timber posts.
Good installation at the beginning is usually more valuable than choosing an expensive panel and cutting corners on the groundwork.
Planning New Fencing in Reading or Berkshire?
Element Landscapes installs close board fencing, lap panels, cedar screening, trellis and gates across Reading and the surrounding Berkshire area.
If you are replacing an old boundary or planning fencing as part of a wider garden project, get in touch to arrange a free site visit and no-obligation quotation.
