Whether you're securing a garden, containing livestock, or simply aiming for a bit of extra privacy, choosing the right fence panels is essential. With so many styles and materials for fencing available, it can be hard to know where to begin. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular types of fence panels we offer, recommend treatments to keep your fence looking its best, and outline the extras you might need to complete the job.
A guide to fence panel types
Fence panels: As one of the most practical and versatile solutions, these are ideal for creating boundaries and securing outdoor spaces. Their prefabricated design makes them quicker and easier to install compared to traditional, built-from-scratch fencing methods. We stock a variety of fence panels to suit different needs and each type offers distinct benefits depending on your goal.
Hazel Hurdles: These natural, woven panels are ideal for creating a rustic and eco-friendly boundary. Hazel Hurdles are particularly well suited to gardens and wildlife-friendly spaces. Since they are made from untreated hazel, they naturally resist rot and do not require additional treatment.
Closeboard fence panels: Known for their strength and durability, closeboard fence panels are perfect for providing privacy and enhancing security. They’re constructed from vertical feather edge boards that are partially overlapped and fixed to horizontal supporting rails, creating a solid barrier.
Feather edge fence panels: A variation of closeboard panels, feather edge panels offer similar benefits but in a modular panel format, making installation a little easier for DIYers.
Overlap panels: These are a more economical option, featuring horizontally overlapping boards. While they offer less strength than closeboard panels, overlap panels are excellent for marking boundaries and offering a decent level of privacy at an affordable price.
Trellis panels: These decorative panels are perfect for topping fences, creating garden screens, or supporting climbing plants. Trellis is not typically used for security but can be great for adding height and aesthetic appeal to existing fencing.
Closeboard fencing (Individual components): For those who want a custom build or are replacing parts of an existing fence, individual feather edge boards and rails allow you to create closeboard fencing from scratch. This method offers great flexibility in height and layout.
Wood treatment and longevity
While most of our fence panels, including closeboard, feather edge, and overlap panels come pre-treated to resist rot and decay, hazel hurdles do not require any treatment due to their natural resilience.
For added protection or aesthetic enhancement, we recommend applying Barn Paint which is a breathable, protective coating ideal for outdoor wood. It helps maintain the wood’s appearance and prolongs its life, especially in the face of British weather.
Extras for installing fence panels
Installing fencing requires more than just panels. Here are some essential extras you may need:
Fence Posts: Choose between wooden posts (either 4x4 inch or 3x4 inch depending on your fence size) or concrete posts for added stability. The height of your posts should match or exceed the height of your panels.
Post Caps: These not only add a decorative finish but also help protect the top of wooden posts from rain damage.
Postcrete: A quick-setting concrete mix used to anchor your posts firmly in the ground.
Spur or Shuv Holders: Handy if you're fixing posts onto hard surfaces or adding extra support.
Fixings: Use nails or screws to secure wooden components together essential for panel and rail installation.
Choosing the right fence panels can make all the difference to your property’s look, security, and functionality. Whether you’re after sturdy closeboard fence panels, overlap panels, or decorative trellis, we’ve got something for every project. Don’t forget to consider protective treatments and the right installation accessories to ensure your fence stands the test of time.