How Long Does Fencing Last?

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How Long Does Fencing Last?

Fencing is a fundamental element for our homes and gardens. Not all fences, or indeed fencing contractors, are equal. This article will summarize the materials, installation methods and maintenance that can enhance the lifespan of your garden fencing.

In simple terms, a new fence will typically last for up to 15 to 20 years. However, that can vary drammatically based on the following factors.

Materials

British fencing materials can be divided into 2 catagories: Softwood and hardwood.

Popular species of softwood in the UK include pine, larch and spruce. Softwood tends to be less durable and this is reflected in the price. Popular hardwoods include oak and teak. These materials are more durable and resistant to heavy winds.

In recent years, composite fencing has risen in demand among our clients. Composite isn’t vulnerable to seasonal extremes, or moisture, insects and fungus. This form of fencing requires less maintenance and can last for over 30 years.

We work with suppliers such as NeoTimber and Eurocell to offer a variety of options.

Installation

Are fence panels more or less durable than manually constructed fences?

In our experience, manually installed options, such as closeboard fencing, generally last longer. Although this will vary depending on the materials used.

Postsavers are an essential component of longevity. Our team recommend installing rot protection sleeves, like Postsaver Pro-Wrap. Postsavers guard against moisture and fungi and protect your fence against rot and decay. They come with a 20 year guarantee.

Rot boards, or kickboards, is a piece of wood that’s positioned at the bottom of a fence. Rot boards are often pressure-treated for added durability.

Of course, the quality of installation will vary among fencing companies in Swindon & Wiltshire. Before selecting your contractor of choice, you should ensure they have liability insurance and assess their portfolio and reviews.

Maintenance

The first step of fence maintenance begins with routine spots checks. You want to check every board and panel for signs of decay. After doing so you can apply a gentle brush or pressure wash. It’s vital to remove dirt and grime to prevent any deterioration.

You need to correct any boards or screws that are loose. Whether you’re seasoned DIYer or not, this can be done with time and patience. Finally, you should stain and reseal your fence every 4 to 5 years for protection against the elements.

We hope this outline has helped. We install all types of garden fencing and offer a complete landscaping service. If you have any further questions, or indeed require an in-person quote, contact Swindon Fencing Solutions today.

How To Install Fence Panels

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How To Install Fence Panels … With Ease

Curious about how to install fence panels? DIY tasks in the garden range from decking to laying turf. Whether you’re an ardent DIYer or a novice, installing fence panels is a task you can execute. This article will summarize the process post by post.

Fail To Prepare, Prepare To Fail …

Just as a misplaced card can bring the house tumbling down, installing fence panels can be a precarious undertaking. We’ll begin by setting the foundations before moving forward.

Before measuring up, you’ll need planning permission. You’ll need to discuss the new fixture with your neighbours and establish boundary lines. Planning permission typically isn’t needed for fence panels that are under 2 meters in height.

If permission is required, you’ll need to contact your local authority. You can also discuss this with your suppliers of choice. 

Always Take A Safety First Approach

Clear debris and adopt a safety first approach. Clear rocks and plants from the area and check ensure there are no electrical cables under the designated area. In the event cables are found, you may need to move the boundary or contact the professionals to execute this installation.

Measure up and dig, dig, dig. Measure the distance required for each post and use bamboo (or a solitary stick will suffice.) to make the location. We recommend digging at least 450mm for each post hole.

Install the posts and establish builders lines. Insert the first and last posts and draw 2 builders lines along the the length your new boundary line. 

Time to install those panels. Using a pencil mark out 6 equally spaced points along the frame. Now, on these points, drill pilot holes ready for those final nails. 

Raise and check the spirit levels. Use the bricks to prop the fence up to 75mm from the ground. In future this opening will prevent rot setting in. Use a spirit level before moving on. 

And finally, lock it in. It’s time to return to those pilot holes. Using a galvanized nail, find the pilot holes and hammer the frame and the first post together. 

So you don’t need to be a master craftsmen to install fence panels. Follow these steps closely and you’ll have a fence that’ll withstand seasonal extremes and heavy winds for years to come. If you have any questions, or you’d like our professional carpenters to execute the task for you, don’t hesitate to contact our team.

Contact Us With Your Questions

Swindon Fencing FAQs

By admin | Fencing

At Swindon Fencing Solutions we regularly field a series of FAQ’s from customers around the county. These questions include our quotes, rates, materials and guarantees. This post will address just a few of them but please reach out to us if you need more information.

Do you offer a free in-person quote?

Yes. Whether you’re based in Swindon or the greater Wiltshire region we’ll offer you a estimate. We’ll outline our services, costs and materials to best match your homes needs.

How long does fencing last?

Standard wooden fencing generally lasts for up to 15 to 20 years. This can be increased by adding postsavers, kickboards and adequate maintenance.

Can you outline your rates?

Our rates will vary depending on the job in question. Materials, location, accessibility and our time investment all factor. That’s why we offer a free quote. 

Is your fencing guaranteed?

Our team are perfectionists and get the job done right first time. That said, if for any reason you have questions or corrections you’d like to apply, we’ll be more than happy to address them.

What decking materials do you work with?

We work with wood, composite and aluminium decking materials. Our suppliers are local and include nationally recognized brands including Trex and Arbordeck.

Can you outline your landscaping services?

Through the years we’ve executed a series of Garden SOS calls. Our services have extended from fencing to stripping and laying new lawns, clearance and tree services. 

Do you offer fence and deck repair and maintenance?

Yes, we do. We regularly restore and correct broken panels and blemishes on your fencing or decking. We also you a pressure washer to restore wooden or timber frames. 

What are your payment methods?

We accept cash on delivery and BACs. We’re currently expanding our range of methods to allow our clients to pay online too. 

We hope this brief article has addressed your questions. In the event you’d like to learn more, reach us at info@SwindonFencing.co.uk or call 01793 236300.

Garden Trends 2021

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British gardens are becoming more intricate and diverse in design every year. While historically our clients have been content with a traditional lawn and garden patio, todays marketplace offers a host of new options.

These options include grades of artificial grass, composite decking options and water features. If, like many of our clients, you’re looking for striking yet low maintenance garden designs, visit this page to learn more about landscaping in Swindon with us.

Artificial Grass

The low maintenance garden trend is perhaps best exemplified by artificial grass. Often referred to as astro turf, artificial grass is growing in demand every year. Market insiders say by up to 20% every year.

Artificial grass brands vary in texture, aesthetics and use. Family friendly options. Many of our clients couple artificial grass with decking.

Composite Decking

While classical timber decking remains popular, composite decking is fast becoming the market leader. Although composite brands are more expensive, they’re also more durable and less maintenance intensive. A standard composite deck can last up to 20 years, up to 5 years longer than wood.

We work with market leaders including Trex, Millboard, Blooma and more. Among this sector, we’ve noted we’re receiving a growing number of inquiries for hot tubs.

Water Features

Water features have becoming popularised by gardeners world. In particular fountains, whirlpools and pebble piles have become a popular features in Britain’s gardens.

Whether you’re looking for fencing, decking or artificial grass we can help. As veterans of the landscaping industry our team are able to walk you through the latest market trends and draw up a list of expenses for you. If you have your own garden design in mind, reach out to us today for your quote.

Planning Permission & Robbie Williams | A Cautionary Tale

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Planning Permission & Robbie Williams | A Cautionary Tale

The tale of Robbie Williams planning permission battle is a cautionary tale for Wiltshire homeowners. Williams, the owner of a sprawling estate in Compton Bassett, has been locked in talks with the local authority over his plans to install a new fence.

The proposals, including a 2 meter high fence, were rejected by local officials. The objection notice cited the visual amenity of the village and it’s location next to a grade 1 listed Church. As a compromise, officials suggested a hedge would be in keeping with the village aesthetic.

“The fence would not be in keeping with that particular area and we are just waiting for a decision by Wiltshire Council whenever that will be. For us the fence would have been too high. One suggestion was that they could have a hedge instead as that would be more in keeping as it could be cut back. It is nothing personal. It was just an observation by the council and we put our points across.” — Council chairman, Pete Szczesiak

How To Get Planning Permission For Your Fence

While most of our clients aren’t international pop stars, we could do well to heed the lessons of Williams. Before proceeding with the project you, or your contractor of choice, would do well to discuss the project with neighbours. You need to establish territory lines and ensure the dimensions of the fence don’t impose. In the event the fence is over 2 meters high, you’ll need to contact your local authority for planning permission.

Swindon, and other local authorities, publish checklists and address your FAQ’s online. You can view a planning permission checklist on the Swindon.gov site here. A site location plan and a fee for submission may be required. You can also visit the PlanningPortal.co.uk for more information.

Fortunately, unlike the Williams saga, the overwhelming majority of projects require no permission at all. If you’re in need of fencing in Swindon or Wiltshire, our team will measure up and discuss your proposals. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Let The Professionals Execute The Task For You

Swindon Fencing Slideshow

By admin | Fencing

A slideshow of our work in Swindon, featuring various fixtures and materials. Enjoy the video, and if you have further questions, please refer to our FAQ page and don’t hesitate to contact us.