A Guide To Building a Great Fence

Constructing a brand-new fence can be a time-consuming, costly process.

13:11 06 August 2021

When it comes to constructing and installing a brand-new fence, to provide a safe and secure barrier around your land, commercial premises, or farm or to enclose animals, there are several things you need to consider carefully to ensure the fencing that you erect is both fit for purpose as well as being built to last.

 

Budget is obviously a major consideration when it comes to fence construction, especially on longer runs, but assessing the material and construction variables effectively is essential for you to maximise return on your investment. Continue reading to find out how to plan and build an on-budget fence that will do what it needs to as well as being durable enough to last many years.

 

Pre-planning

 

It’s essential that you carefully measure the area for which you wish to install any fencing. You will also need to ensure you discuss your specific requirements with a specialist fencing supplier who will be able to advise you on the best type of fencing and materials you can acquire within your budget parameters and what system will work according to the size and nature of your requirements. It is also well worth the investment of ensuring you use experienced fencing contractors to install your chosen fencing.

 

Materials

 

You obviously want to ensure your new fence has been built with the highest quality materials you can afford and that steps are taken to ensure the longevity of the fence.

 

A fence is only as good as the materials used for its construction. When it comes to fencing, you get what you pay for. Don’t be tempted to save money by simply selecting the cheapest material available, as you need to carefully evaluate the suitability of each particular material to the task the fence is required to perform. Get it wrong and instead of saving you money your new fence might turn out to be an expensive money-pit requiring constant attention, maintenance, and repairs.

 

Usually, the first major fencing decision to make is to decide on wood or metal. wooden fencing looks great and is one of the cheapest options available, however, there is a wide range of cost and durability options especially if you weigh-up the choice between soft and more durable hardwood options. Conventionally, wood was the best choice for fencing as the raw material could easily be sourced and fashioned to fit any use. However, over the years hardwood, the wood of choice for fence longevity, has become much scarcer and hence much more expensive. Whilst softwood won’t last as long as hardwood, when treated properly initially and maintained regularly it can easily last 20 or more years. Wooden fencing is also often used in conjunction with wire netting, wire mesh, or even barbed wire according to the use the fence is required to carry out.

 

Steel or aluminum fencing, on the other hand, can withstand the elements and is robust enough to manage most issues of wear and tear however, these still require regular maintenance and should be checked quite often as any issue with metal gates can be costly to repair. Indeed, the reliability and durability of steel fencing are the most common reasons for its purchase. While timber fences are sturdy, they can suffer from rot or become infested compromising the structure's integrity. Whilst steel or aluminum fencing, is designed to last. And whilst maintenance is important, the strength of metal fencing makes it much less prone to damage than wood. You often have to weigh up the cost saving of initially selecting wood and then factoring in the cost of regular maintenance and repairs versus the higher initial cost of steel or aluminum with the likelihood of less on-going maintenance being required. The good news is that both metal and wood fencing come in a wide variety of design options optimised for particular tasks e.g., heavy duty fencing for large livestock such as cows; pest control for keeping deer out etc.

 

Budgeting

 

Monetary limitations are likely to be a key determining factor during the fence planning and building process. However, by clearly defining what you need your fence to do it is possible to design and install a great fence that will last a lifetime on a budget. When it comes to constructing a brand-new fence, you must also factor in the installation costs, which can be considerable, and if you can don’t cut corners. In fact, if you have to stretch your your budget to ensure you are fully satisfied with the final product and are confident it has been built to withstand the elements, do so. Everyone loves a bargain but by choosing the cheapest option, you can often end up paying more for a series of repairs and maintenance over time. If you plan to install wooden fencing, you must apply a specialised sealant or stain to maximise protection of your fence and prolong its lifespan. Remember it’s not just about the fencing, either there are other things to consider such as gates for access, and important additions such as wooden or metal stakes. These can also prove a worthwhile investment, providing a cost-effective additional layer of support to keep fencing protected, in place and functioning properly.

 

Construction

 

As well as sourcing high-quality materials, fencing should also be installed by an experienced builder or contractor. This is arguably the most important factor to consider throughout the entire process. An experienced fencing contractor will ensure the fence you install is fit for purpose and able to stand up to winter weather and storms. They can also advise and problem solve as they go through the installation process and will be able to provide you with industry-led advice and guidance to ensure your brand-new fence lasts a lifetime.

 

As you can see, there are several important steps to consider in building a great fence. During the initial pre-construction planning process, you need to consider the materials to be used, lifespan required, construction method employed, type and style of fencing to be installed, and, of course, budget. By making these decisions ahead of time, you can build a great fence that can withstand the elements and last a lifetime. It can be tempting to cut corners to slash costs but when it comes to building a high-quality fence, you should always favour quality over quantity.