Wooden fence panels have been a popular garden fencing option for centuries. But why is this and are they still the best option? Well, read on as we explore the pros and cons of wood fencing and give you all the answers you need to make an informed decision.
An introduction to wooden fence panels
Wooden fence panels remain an ever-popular material choice in the UK. Even now with other options, the most popular and functional garden fencing in the UK is made of wood.
Available in many different styles, from traditional to classic and on to decorative fence panels and contemporary; timber fencing has all the variety you need!
For those considering the advantages of wooden fencing, the natural properties of wood enable it to seamlessly integrate with your garden or outdoor space, so think of timber fence panels as combining functionality with aesthetics. They also provide privacy and protection as well as being a functional boundary between properties.
Other fence panels available
Although not the focus of this article, garden fence panels are available in many styles, design options, materials, and formats. Although not sold by Buy Fencing Direct, you can buy:
- Metal fencing - for an industrial look, which is great for containing livestock
- Composite panels - (part wood/part plastic), these perform especially well when used in extreme-weather locations like seafronts or boggy, marsh and wet areas
Pros and cons of wood fencing
Below provides a quick intro to the pros and cons of wood fencing.
The pros of timber fencing include:
- Aesthetic appeal
- Cost-effectiveness
- Customisable and repairable
- Easy and quick installation
- Kindness to the planet
- Made to last
The cons of timber fencing include:
- Extreme weather conditions
- Possible insect infestation
- Possible rot and decay issues
- The possibility of warping
Apart from extreme weather in coastal or marshland conditions that nearly always require extreme measures (usually composite or metal fences), the other pros related to wooden fence panels are solved using dip or pressure treated wood that prolongs the timber’s life and protects it from rot and insect infestation.
Now let’s jump into a detailed overview of wooden fencing and consider the various advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of wooden fencing
Timber fencing has been popular for homeowners or those looking to enhance the property's aesthetic appeal. It protects the boundaries from intruders by providing an extra layer of security and stylish visual enhancements that complement the outside space, existing landscaping and architecture, and garden buildings. With its natural, blendable appearance and long-lasting durability, timber fencing is an obvious choice for discerning home improvement enthusiasts. Here is a summary of just some of the advantages of wood fences:
1) Easy and quick fence installation
Easier to install than metal or composite fences, choose wooden garden fence panels, which are also customisable to your unique specifications. Reasons why it is easy and quicker to install include the lightweight materials, versatility of anchoring options, and the fact that many wooden fence panels are delivered pre-assembled or in kits.
2) A cost-effective option
Wooden fence panels are a more economical option than metal or composite fencing. Even with custom-designed timber fencing, the cost will be much lower than other options. Plus, as mentioned, repairs are affordable since panels or pieces of fencing can be worked in rather than replacing a whole area of fencing. Because of these factors, wooden fencing is an economical choice for everyone over the entire lifetime of the fencing.
3) Aesthetic appeal
With timber's obvious natural look, wooden fencing provides an appealing aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the natural surrounding environment. You can quickly choose a design or style to match your property's existing landscaping. With the wide aesthetic appeal of wooden fencing, you do not have to worry about clashing designs or styles.
For example, traditional fencing is a great choice for classic homes and homes that need security. Overlap fence panels and closeboard fencing are prime examples of traditional wooden fencing options.
Contemporary fencing includes options such as slatted fencing or hit & miss, which suit many gardens including smaller, more design-orientated outdoor living spaces. With so many style choices available, you will easily find a look that suits your taste and budget. If affordability is appealing to you, why not view our cheap fence panels?
4) Eco, sustainable and environmentally friendly
Timber fencing is a generally an environmentally sustainable choice. Timber is responsibly sourced from sustainable sources (managed forests and woodlands). Unlike other types of garden fencing, any broken wood in your fencing case can be easily replaced. Therefore, using eco, sustainable and environmentally friendly wood fencing means you are protecting your home and privacy and taking care of your environment by using sustainable fencing materials.
5) Home security
Wooden fencing panels will secure your home from animals and potential theft. Timber fences also provide privacy to households; you do not have to worry about neighbours or passersby's invasive attention to your garden. Professionally constructed wooden fencing that has been correctly fitted is the best option for maximum privacy and security in your home.
6) Easy to customise and repair
Homeowners choose wooden fencing for its easy customisation and repairability. Wood is a highly versatile fence material that can easily be cut, shaped, styled, and repaired. This means if your design preferences change you can customise your wooden fence panels with basic-medium carpentry skills and the right tools. A couple of examples of customisation options might be to add built-in planter boxes or trellis sections for climbing plants.
Timber fences are quick and easy to repair because repairs usually involve replacing damaged or broken garden fence panels rather than replacing the entire fence. Repairs are also convenient, particularly when compared to making repairs on plastic or metal fence panels. The repairable qualities mean that you do not have to worry about labour costs or extended periods of risk associated with other types of fencing.
Disadvantages of wooden fencing
There is little doubt that installing timber fencing is a great option for most properties. However, there are a few disadvantages, although these are niche and rarely outweigh the positives. Here are some disadvantages of wooden fencing:
Assumption: not all wooden fence panels are alike!
If you choose timber fence panels that have been dip treated or pressure treated and have been professionally installed, expect your wooden fence to be more durable and last. This is especially the case if you use fence post spikes and maintain your fence annually with timber treatment (if it is dip treated). Expect to receive 15+ years of life expectancy when you buy our wooden fencing panels (check our manufacturer guarantee for further information).
To be balanced we mention disadvantages of wooden fencing below, but these are significantly reduced if you buy either pressure treated fencing or dip treated fencing, which is given regular maintenance.
1) Extreme weathering
Extreme weather conditions such as rain, hail, storms, and strong winds are not preferred by untreated wooden fence panels. Nor do they like salty or acidic moisture found in coastal or marshland areas. This type of weather can irreparably damage your fence panels, and particularly fence posts. Invasive water (especially if you do not use fence post spikes) will cause moisture damage; your timber fence will become mouldy and rot. Such conditions will also cause discolouring (silvering or greenish moss colouring) to your garden fencing panels.
2) Insects and rot
Untreated timber fence panels can warp, be prone to rot and succumb to insect attacks and fungal attacks, so this is something to consider when considering wooden fencing. However, with treatment and maintenance, your wooden fencing should last a long time. Always opt for dip treated or pressure treated wooden fence panels to avoid damage.
3) Style and taste considered
When weighing the pros and cons of wooden fencing, style and taste are always considered. Strong taste is neither an advantage nor a disadvantage, but it is a consideration. Opting for fence panels made from other materials can be costly, which is fine if your budget allows it, but if you are cost-conscious, then wooden fence panels can be the solution to an aesthetic problem. Generally, the garden plants, architectural features and garden buildings do the talking and fencing, while vital is the backdrop to the main story - your garden.
4) Longevity
There is no getting away from it; a durable metal fence will last an entire lifetime - 30 years plus, but even a metal fence needs maintenance and care to keep looking its best. Most people move several times in their lives, and some might say a metal fence could devalue your property, as most people like a traditional or classic boundary and will likely remove a metal one upon occupation.
Final thoughts
You might have gathered by now that as retailers of wooden fencing, we appreciate that wooden fence panels are a timeless choice for gardens and outdoor space. Read our pros and cons of wood fencing to develop a detailed knowledge. They bring a natural aesthetic that blends seamlessly with outdoor landscapes. Beyond their beauty, wood fences are versatile, fitting various traditional and modern styles.
They might act as a privacy fence and provide sound insulation, are eco-friendly, and with reputable suppliers (such as us) are sourced from sustainable forests. With proper treatment, they offer durability against the elements. Plus, wooden garden fence panels are cost-effective and easy to install, making them a popular choice for those looking to enhance their home's functionality and curb appeal. As well as these advantages it is also worth familiarising yourself with the disadvantages of wooden fencing, to be able to make an informed choice for your fencing project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most durable types of wood for fencing panels?
For UK fencing, some of the most long-lasting types of wood are cedar, which is naturally resistant to rot and insect damage due to its oils. Pressure treated timber like pine or spruce is a popular choice in the UK as the treatment process protects the wood from moisture, rot and pests so it will last. Douglas fir is also strong and durable so is good for UK fencing. European oak is naturally durable and a good option for high-quality fencing but more expensive. Choosing the right wood will mean your fence panels will last for years to come with minimal maintenance.
Contact us
Contact Buy Fencing Direct at 0333 003 0515 today to discuss purchasing from a large selection of traditional or contemporary wooden fencing panels. Our super knowledgeable team are happy to speak to you. Everyone who works at Buy Fencing Direct is an expert at finding the most suitable fencing panels and accessories for your specific needs.
You can also message us by email, which you can do through our easy-to-use contact form. You can also chat with us via the Live chat pop-up app that appears when you visit our website.