Fencing in your area

Fencing and Gate Specialists

There are many different sizes and designs of garden fences and gates to select from, so there is certain to be one that matches your yard and your needs. Closeboard fence (made up of overlapping vertical wooden boards), overlap fence, palisade, and trellis are the most common forms of fence. Closeboard fence is the most durable and heaviest form of panel fence available, providing perfect seclusion and making it excellent for boundary fencing. Overlap fencing is constructed out of horizontally overlapping wooden boards and is less expensive than closeboard fence while still providing adequate privacy.

Trellis fencing is an open screen fencing used on its own or as a decorative panel on top of a solid fence for privacy. Whereas Palisade fencing is the traditional picket-type fence. When constructing a fence, bear in mind that one of the most contentious issues between neighbours is the property line, so double-check your title records to confirm the fence is in the appropriate location and that you know who is responsible for its care.

After you have decided on the sort of fence panel, you will need to select the appropriate posts. There are advantages and disadvantages to using wooden, metal, or concrete posts.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wooden, Metal and Concrete Posts

Concrete posts provide a sturdy fence, but they need a lot of labour to install. Wooden posts are easier to work with, but they have a greater chance of rotting. Metal post supports are incredibly sturdy and may help you put up a fence fast. Panel fencing is incredibly popular and is by far the most prevalent style of fence in the UK, making it ideal for those on a budget or wishing to do their own installation. They are really easy to put up and offer a lot of versatility and value. In the case of damage, individual panels can be readily changed.

Planning Permission for Fencing and Gates

If you want to build or add to a fence, wall, or gate that is over 1 metre high adjacent to a highway used by vehicles or over 2 metres high elsewhere, or if your house is a listed structure or the property is subject to any other limitations, you must apply for planning permission. If you are not raising the height of an existing fence or gate, you will not need to apply for planning permission to remove it or to change, repair, or upgrade it. In a conservation area, though, you may require planning approval to remove a fence or gate. Building regulations do not apply to fences, walls, or gates, but they must be structurally sound and maintained.

Fencing and Gates Costs    

For closeboard fencing, you would be looking at around roughly £55 per metre, assuming that you choose a 4ft 6inch closeboard on a 6in gravel board supported by 4x4 concreted posts and 3 horizontal rails; this price usually includes the removal of the old fence but double check to make sure it is included in the quote. At an average cost of roughly £65 per metre, fence panels (6x6) are slightly more costly. Steel palisade fence installation costs roughly £40 per metre, however this is solely for labour; the buyer must supply the concrete and fencing. Gates can cost as little as £80 supplied and installed, but depending on the materials used, they can potentially cost several hundred pounds.

Hiring a Gardener to Build Fencing and Gates

The first thing to do before hiring a gardener is to create a brief of what you want done so that the quotes you receive from different contractors will be more accurate and easier to compare. Finding quotes has never been easier on Top Tradespeople. Simply post your job and we will connect you with up to 3 local gardeners, without obligation, and totally free of charge. Keep in mind that a landscaper, designer, or gardener might be a highly skilled professional who has spent years honing their craft. You are paying for their knowledge and competence, and they deserve to be compensated fairly for their time and expertise. The greatest deal is not necessarily the cheapest!