Fencing serves both practical and aesthetic purposes in the United Kingdom. It offers privacy, and security, and defines property boundaries while enhancing the overall look of gardens and landscapes.
At Fence Forge, we understand the importance of a garden fence, and we are happy to present everything you need to know about fences in the UK.
Here are some of the most common fences found on UK property.
Closeboard Fencing: Also known as feather edge fencing, closeboard is a popular choice due to its durability and security. It consists of vertical feather edge boards attached to horizontal slats, creating a robust and private boundary.
Panel Fencing: Panel fencing is a cost-effective option and comes in pre-made panels that are easy to install. These panels can be made of wood, vinyl, or metal and offer varying degrees of privacy and decorative designs, such as double-slatted fence panels.
Picket Fencing: Picket fences are iconic and have a traditional style. They consist of spaced vertical boards with a pointed or rounded top, adding a decorative touch to the property.
Post And Rail Fencing: This type of fencing is often used in rural settings and is a simple and rustic design. It consists of horizontal rails fixed between vertical posts, providing a subtle boundary without obstructing views.
Trellis Fences: Trellis adds a touch of elegance to any garden and is commonly used to support climbing flowers. Garden trellis fencing often features a criss-cross pattern, making it ideal for creating partitions or adding height to existing fences.
Wrought Iron Fencing: Wrought iron fences are known for their elegance and intricate designs. They are long-lasting and provide a high level of security, making them suitable for both residential and commercial properties.
Chain Link Fencing: Chain link fences are practical and affordable. They are made from interwoven steel wires, providing security while maintaining visibility.
Bamboo Fencing: Bamboo fences offer a natural and eco-friendly option. They are aesthetically pleasing, provide good privacy, and are relatively easy to install.
Hedge Fencing: In some areas, natural hedges are used as living fences. These can be allowed to grow or trimmed to specific heights, providing a green and eco-friendly boundary.
Composite Fencing: Composite fences are made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastic. They are low-maintenance, durable, and environmentally friendly. For more information, check out our post “What Is Composite Fencing".
Brick Fencing: Brick fences are sturdy and provide a classic appearance. They can be constructed in various styles, including solid brick or brick pillars with infill panels.
Concrete Fencing: Concrete creates a solid fence that is durable, providing excellent security. They can be plain or decorative, and they are often used in commercial and industrial settings.
Steel Palisade Fencing: Steel palisade fences are formidable and mainly used for high-security applications. They have pointed or notched tops, deterring intruders effectively.
Before choosing a fence type, consider factors such as the purpose of the fence, budget, desired level of privacy, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
Always check local regulations and guidelines regarding fence installation in your area.
Fence panels are pre-made sections or sheets of fencing material that come in various designs, sizes, and materials. They are a popular choice for building fences in gardens and properties due to their convenience, ease of installation, and versatility.
These panels are typically made from wood, vinyl, metal, or composite materials.
Don't also miss our article "How To Fix Fence Panels" - it offers valuable insights into this important topic.
The right style of fence panel can enhance your property, and at Fence Forge, we are here to help you find the ideal fence panel for your property.
Ease of Installation: Fence panels are designed to be easy to install, making them a practical option for DIY projects. They come with pre-attached boards or pickets, which can be simply connected to the fence posts, saving time and effort during the construction process.
Consistent Design: Fence panels ensure a consistent and uniform appearance for your fence. Since they are manufactured in controlled conditions, a fence panel maintains a standardised design and size, creating a neat and cohesive look for your garden or property.
Various Styles and Designs: Fence panels are available in a wide range of styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that complements the overall aesthetics of your property.
Whether you prefer a classic picket fence, a modern slatted design, or decorative fence patterns, there's a fence panel to match your preferences.
Enhanced Privacy and Security: Depending on the material and design, fence panels can offer varying levels of privacy and security.
A fence panel with tightly spaced boards or panels with full coverage can provide better privacy, while sturdier materials like metal or composite panels can enhance security.
Durability and Longevity: Many fence panels are constructed from durable materials, such as pressure-treated wood, vinyl, or metal, which are designed to withstand the elements and extend the lifespan of your fence.
Low Maintenance: Certain materials used in fence panels, such as vinyl or composite, require minimal maintenance compared to traditional wood fences. This means less time and money spent on painting, staining, or treating the fence over the years.
Quick Repairs: If a section of your fence becomes damaged, a fence panel makes it easy to replace the affected area without having to dismantle the entire fence. This makes maintenance and repairs more efficient.
Property Boundaries: Fence panels help clearly define the boundaries of your garden or property. They prevent accidental encroachments onto your land and can minimise disputes with neighbours over property lines.
No matter the fence, there is a fence panel that enhances it.
Fence posts are crucial components of any fencing system, providing stability, support, and anchoring for the fence panels or boards. Various types of fence posts are available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Wood posts offer a range of advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, timber fencing provides a natural and traditional look that complements various fence styles, and their ease of workability and installation makes them a convenient choice.
Additionally, a wooden fence and post can be stained or painted to match the fence panels, enhancing their visual appeal.
Moreover, they are generally cost-effective compared to other materials. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. A wooden fence is susceptible to rot, small gaps, decay, and insect damage, especially if not adequately treated or maintained.
Wooden fencing has a typically shorter lifespan compared to certain other post materials.
Concrete fence posts offer a range of advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, they are highly durable and long-lasting, effectively resisting rot, decay, and damage from insects. They provide exceptional stability and strength for the fence, ensuring a reliable and secure boundary.
Another benefit is their low maintenance; concrete posts do not require painting or staining to maintain their integrity. They are also ideal for use in wet or damp conditions, where wood posts might be susceptible to damage.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider.
Concrete posts are heavier and more challenging to install compared to wood posts, requiring more effort during the installation process. Additionally, they are less flexible when adjustments are needed during installation.
Furthermore, concrete posts can be more expensive than wood posts initially.
For more learnings, you can check out our post "How To Install Concrete Fence Posts".
Metal posts offer durability and resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage. They provide strong support for the fence, withstanding harsh weather conditions.
Lightweight and available in various styles, they are easy to handle and can be customised to suit different designs.
However, additional protective coatings may be required to prevent rust and corrosion, adding to the cost of this fence post. Metal fence panels can be more expensive than wood posts, and some may find them less visually appealing.
For more information, check out our post “What Is The Strongest Type Of Fencing".
For complete privacy, especially in front gardens, the best type of fence is a solid fence, and your best options are:
Closeboard Fences: This fence offers excellent privacy due to its overlapping feather edge boards. It creates a solid and secure barrier, blocking the view from the outside.
Panel Fencing with Wooden Panels: Wooden panel fences with no gaps between the boards are effective at providing privacy. Opt for taller panels to enhance privacy levels further. Our post "How To Make Fence Taller" maybe interest you. You can check it out.
Trellis Panels with Climbing Plants: Trellis fences, when combined with climbing flowering and plants, can create a dense and green screen, offering both privacy and an attractive backdrop.
For the best value for money, the following UK fences are worth considering:
Panel Fencing: Panels are cost-effective and come in various materials, including wood, vinyl, and metal. It is easy to install, making it a budget-friendly option.
Chain Link Fencing: Chain link fences are affordable and serve their purpose well. They are suitable for securing larger areas without breaking the bank.
Wooden Picket Fence: Wooden picket fences are relatively inexpensive garden fences and add a classic touch to the property.
You can also check out our post "How Much Do Fencers Charge" for additional insights.
For durability and longevity, these UK fences are recommended:
Wrought Iron Fencing: Wrought iron fences are highly durable and offer good weather resistance. With proper maintenance, they can last for many decades.
Concrete Fencing: Concrete fences are exceptionally durable and require minimal maintenance. They can resist rot, pests, and the effects of weather, making them a long-lasting choice.
Composite Fencing: Composite fences combine wood fibres and plastic, providing the look of wood with the durability of plastic. They are resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
Common types of wood used for UK fences include:
Pressure-Treated Softwood: This is the most common type of wood used in garden fencing due to its affordability and availability. Pressure-treated softwood, such as pine or spruce, is treated to resist decay and insects.
Cedar: Cedar wood is naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, making it an excellent choice for longevity.
Redwood: Redwood is durable and has a natural resistance to rot and decay, making it suitable for UK weather conditions.
Oak: Oak is a strong and durable hardwood solid fence option, though often more expensive.
There are several popular garden fence options in the UK. Closeboard fencing offers durability, security, and privacy with its overlapping feather edge boards. Panels provide versatility and affordability, available in wood, vinyl, and metal, offering varying levels of privacy.
Wrought iron fencing adds an elegant and secure appearance, and this solid fencing is for both residential and commercial properties.
Trellis fencing adds charm to gardens while supporting climbing plants, offering a combination of privacy and a decorative touch. Composite fencing is a modern and eco-friendly choice, combining wood fibres and recycled plastic for low maintenance and enhanced durability.
Lastly, steel palisade fencing is ideal for high-security applications, featuring pointed or notched tops to effectively deter intruders.
Whatever your fencing project, we have the fence types that create your own fence you know, trust, and love. We care about making the most of UK gardens and outdoor spaces, so complete your garden design with the best selection of fencing types from Fence Forge.
While you're here, take a look at our post "What Fence Is Mine In The UK" for more additional information.
