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Time for some forward thinking in the garden
With the onset of winter, and the probability of gusty winds and inclement weather, prudent householders and gardeners will now be looking around for any weaknesses that may cause later problems. Loose roofing felt on the garden shed or a wobbly fence post could lead to a more expensive repair bill if left unattended.
Early winter is also the best time to carry out any hard landscaping projects. The new shed, summerhouse and decking installation are tasks to be tackled before ground preparation and planting for the new season begins.
When replacing a fencing panel, or installing new fencing, that “budget price” panel might seem a bargain but take care, flimsy timber will not stand up to really strong winds and, without the protection of a recognised pressure treatment, the panel is susceptible to fungal or wood boring insect attack.
Slotted concrete posts, into which the panels fit, are the most trouble-free method of support. In very extreme winds the panels may be forced out but without causing damage to the entire structure of the fence and usually panels can be easily slotted back into position.
When it comes to timber posts, only use those that have been pressure-treated. A post size of 4 x 4 inches is best for fences of 6 ft high and over and 3 x 3 inch for anything under 6 ft. Posts need to be firmly secured and Somerlap recommends that they should be concreted into the ground to a depth of 24” and then capped to prevent weather and water ingress. Alternatively, Easypost post spikes, which are driven into the ground with a post-driving tool, can be used. Easypost Bolt-Downs for fixing to concrete, brickwork or timber decking are also available.
When fixing the panel to a timber post, pre-drill the holes - it will save you both time and patience - and use galvanised nails or screws to prevent the wood from splitting. If the panel is likely to be in contact with the ground, fit a timber or concrete gravel board to prevent moisture rising and damaging the panel. Also, an extra coating of a wood preservative prior to erecting will ensure that all parts of the wood are further protected.
To provide a simple division from a neighbour’s garden, or sections within your own, open palings are an economical solution. Together with “hit-and-miss” fencing they offer little resistance to the wind and are therefore also ideal for exposed locations.
Close-boarded fencing, where vertical timber boards are fixed to top and bottom aris rails strung between posts provide a much stronger and durable structure. However, the principles outlined above still apply and will ensure a long and trouble-free life.