Closeboard

Close board fencing remains the most cost-effective way to build a solid boundary that will stand the test of time. Close board fencing can also be described as vertical or feather board fencing, but essentially these descriptions refer to the same type of construction.

Close board fencing can be installed to at basically any height but the most standard height is 1.8 metres. Gates are also available in close board style.

Whether you are using square sawn rails, arris rails, timber or concrete posts the basic erection process remains the same.

Installation

Close board fencing is a simple construction of posts, rails, gravel boards and featheredge. Posts should be a minimum of 100x100mm (4×4) section and concreted into the ground at a depth of approx 760mm (for taller fence variations) and the distance between the post centres should ideally not exceed 3.0M (10Ft). Rails are then fixed horizontally across the face of the posts; usually two rails are needed on 1.2M (4Ft) high featheredge and below, with three rails used on 1.8M (6FT).

It is recommended but not essential to fit a gravel board at ground level. This serves to keep the feather edge from making contact with the ground, which will reduce future maintenance costs, because it is cheaper and easier to replace one gravel board rather than a large quantity of feather edge. The feather edge is then fitted vertically on to the front of the rails with a minimum of 25mm (1 inch) overlap.

To increase the life span of your close board fence you can erect it using concrete posts and gravel boards. Due to the long life expectancy of these products future costs of replacing the timber components will be considerably lower, because only the rails and feather edge will need replacing.

Versatility & Benefits of Close Board Fencing

Because this particular style of fencing is constructed with individual pieces it is very versatile and offers many benefits.

1. Close board fencing is ideal for constructing a fence on sloping ground because gravel boards and rails can be fixed at an angle and then the featheredge can follow this level as required
2. Close board has the benefit of being easy to repair. Should any featheredge start to show signs of deterioration, it is a quick and inexpensive process to replace the boards
3. All materials that go into making this type of perimeter fencing are pressure treated, so that the longevity of the timber is at an absolute maximum
4. If constructed correctly it is strong and long lasting
5. Close board is commonly found in both green and brown as standard, making it far more versatile than most boundary options
6. Close board can be used to make a fence of virtually any height
7. Close board fencing is suitable for front and back gardens, as well as commercial use

Maintenance of Your Close Board Fence

Timber is a living product and given enough time it will degrade. To get the best possible life span from the product it is recommend that the timber is treated every 2 – 3 years. This is best undertaken with a solvent based treatment during the summer months, so that it can soak into the dry wood.

Help & Advice

If you are interested in erecting close board fencing at your property, please get in touch with our estimators and they will be happy to offer help and advice. They can also provide you with a free quote for supply and installation at your property or supply only of all relevant materials for DIY installation.

Closeboard fence styles

CLOSEBOARD ON RECESSED CONCRETE POSTS COMPLETE WITH CONCRETE GRAVEL BOARD