Why Choose Premium Closeboard Fence Panels?
Premium Closeboard Fence Panels offer a strong, private and traditional fencing solution for gardens, property boundaries and complete new fence installations. Their overlapping vertical boards create a substantial timber screen, making them suitable for rear gardens, side passages, replacement fencing and areas where privacy is important.
Sky Fencing manufactures all of our closeboard fence panels in-house using quality pressure-treated timber. Producing every panel ourselves allows us to maintain consistent quality throughout the manufacturing process while supplying dependable fencing to homeowners, landscapers, builders and fencing contractors.
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels provide a practical balance of strength, appearance and value. They are suitable for both replacement projects and full new fence runs, and can be installed with timber fence posts or slotted concrete fence posts. Compatible timber and concrete gravel boards can also be used to keep the panels clear of direct ground contact.
Available in heights from 2ft to 6ft, the range can be used for low decorative boundaries, stepped gardens and full-height privacy fencing. For more exposed locations or projects where greater rigidity is required, see our separate range of Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels.
Premium Closeboard vs Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels
Sky Fencing manufactures two closeboard panel ranges in-house: our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels and our Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels. Both provide the same traditional closeboard appearance, but they are built for different project requirements.
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels use 47 × 32mm back rails and are a suitable choice for most residential gardens, replacement fencing and general boundary installations. They offer a strong, dependable panel while remaining easier to handle during installation than the heavier-duty option.
Our Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels use larger 75 × 32mm back rails, providing additional rigidity for exposed gardens, demanding installations and projects where maximum strength is preferred.
| Feature | Premium Closeboard | Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard |
|---|
| Back rail size | 47 × 32mm | 75 × 32mm |
| Best suited to | Most residential gardens, replacement fencing and general boundary projects | Exposed locations and more demanding installations |
| Handling | Lighter and easier to position during installation | Heavier and more substantial |
| Choose when | You want a dependable balance of strength, appearance and value | Additional rigidity and a heavier construction are the main priorities |
Premium Closeboard
Back rail size:
47 × 32mm
Best suited to:
Most residential gardens, replacement fencing and general boundary projects.
Handling:
Lighter and easier to position during installation.
Choose when:
You want a dependable balance of strength, appearance and value.
Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard
Back rail size:
75 × 32mm
Best suited to:
Exposed locations and more demanding installations.
Handling:
Heavier and more substantial.
Choose when:
Additional rigidity and a heavier construction are the main priorities.
Choosing the Right Premium Closeboard Fence Panel Height
Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are available in heights from 2ft to 6ft. The right size will depend on where the fence is being installed, how much privacy you need and whether a gravel board will be fitted beneath the panel.
2ft Panels
A 2ft panel creates a low timber boundary without fully enclosing the area. It is suitable for decorative garden sections, low boundaries and stepped fence runs.
3ft Panels
A 3ft panel provides a traditional closeboard finish while maintaining visibility across the boundary. It is commonly chosen for front gardens, internal garden divisions and low-level fencing projects.
4ft Panels
A 4ft panel offers more enclosure while keeping the garden feeling open. It is suitable for front, side and internal garden boundaries where full privacy is not required.
5ft Panels
A 5ft panel provides a good level of privacy for rear gardens and side boundaries. It can also be paired with a 12-inch gravel board to create an overall fence height of approximately 6ft.
5ft 6in Panels
A 5ft 6in panel is commonly paired with a 6-inch gravel board to create an overall fence height of approximately 6ft while keeping the timber clear of direct ground contact.
6ft Panels
A 6ft panel is the tallest option in the range and provides maximum privacy from the panel itself. It is well suited to rear gardens, side passages and substantial property boundaries.
Remember to Include the Gravel Board Height
The finished fence height includes both the panel and any gravel board installed beneath it. For example, a 5ft 6in panel with a 6-inch gravel board or a 5ft panel with a 12-inch gravel board will create an overall height of approximately 6ft.
Ground levels and installation can affect the final height, so measure the fence line carefully before ordering your panels, posts and gravel boards.
Choosing Fence Posts and Gravel Boards
Premium Closeboard Fence Panels can be installed with either timber fence posts or slotted concrete fence posts. The right option will depend on the appearance you prefer, your maintenance requirements and whether you are replacing an existing fence or installing a complete new run.
Slotted Concrete Fence Posts
Slotted concrete fence posts provide a strong and durable support system for closeboard fence panels. The panels and compatible gravel boards slide between the post slots, creating a secure installation while allowing individual sections to be replaced more easily if required.
Concrete posts are commonly selected where strength and reduced maintenance are priorities. They can be combined with concrete gravel boards to create a robust fencing system that keeps the timber panels raised above direct ground contact.
Timber Fence Posts
Timber fence posts provide a traditional all-timber appearance that complements Premium Closeboard Fence Panels. They are suitable for new garden fencing, replacement installations and projects where a natural timber finish is preferred.
Timber posts should be installed correctly and inspected periodically for signs of movement or damage. Adding suitable post caps can also help protect the exposed tops of the posts from the weather.
Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards form a durable barrier between the timber fence panel and the ground. They help protect the bottom of the panel from soil, moisture and garden debris while providing a solid and level base beneath the fence.
Sky Fencing supplies concrete gravel boards in different heights and finishes, allowing the base of the fence to be matched to the required finished height and preferred appearance.
Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards provide a traditional appearance and work particularly well with timber fence posts. They raise the panel above ground level while maintaining a consistent timber finish throughout the fence run.
As with other outdoor timber products, wooden gravel boards should be inspected periodically and kept clear of excessive soil, standing water and garden debris wherever possible.
Which Combination Should I Choose?
Concrete posts and concrete gravel boards are a practical choice where durability and reduced maintenance are important. Timber posts and wooden gravel boards may be preferred where a traditional all-timber appearance is the main priority.
Before ordering, check that the selected panels, posts and gravel boards are compatible and appropriately sized for the required finished fence height.
How Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels Are Manufactured
Sky Fencing manufactures every closeboard fence panel in-house rather than buying finished panels from another supplier. Producing the panels ourselves gives us greater control over the materials, construction and finished quality while allowing us to supply a consistent range to homeowners, landscapers, builders and fencing contractors.
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are constructed using overlapping vertical timber boards secured to 47 × 32mm back rails. Each panel is manufactured with 19 boards, creating a substantial timber screen with the traditional closeboard appearance. Many standard closeboard panels available elsewhere are manufactured with only 18 boards, so this is an important detail to compare when choosing between suppliers.
We use 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails throughout the construction of our closeboard panels. The galvanised coating helps protect the fixings against rust and corrosion during outdoor use, unlike untreated or lower-specification nails that can begin to rust and mark the timber over time.
The timber is pressure treated to help protect it against rot and decay. Combined with the overlapping boards, substantial back rails and galvanised fixings, this creates a dependable panel suitable for replacement fencing and complete new fence runs.
Back Rails for Each Panel Height
The number of supporting back rails varies according to the height of the panel:
- 2ft panels: two back rails
- 3ft and 4ft panels: three back rails
- 5ft, 5ft 6in and 6ft panels: four back rails
Using the appropriate number of rails helps support the overlapping boards across the full height of the panel while keeping the Premium range practical to handle and install.
Manufactured for Consistent Quality
Because every panel is manufactured by Sky Fencing, we can maintain the same construction across the full range of available heights. Customers can therefore order panels for a complete new installation or select the required height when replacing damaged sections of an existing fence.
For projects where a heavier construction is preferred, view our Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels. These are also manufactured in-house using 19 boards and larger 75 × 32mm back rails.
Installing Premium Closeboard Fence Panels
Correct installation is essential for keeping closeboard fence panels secure, level and properly supported. Before starting, measure the complete fence line, check the ground conditions and confirm how many panels, posts, gravel boards and bags of post concrete will be required.
Plan the Fence Line Before Installation
Mark the position of the fence and identify any changes in ground level before digging the post holes. Planning the complete run in advance will help you decide whether the panels should remain level, follow the slope of the garden or be installed in stepped sections.
Measure the panels and posts being used rather than relying only on nominal sizes. Allow for the width of each post and make sure the spacing is suitable before setting any posts permanently.
Installing with Slotted Concrete Posts
When using slotted concrete fence posts, the gravel board and fence panel are positioned between the slots in the posts. The posts must be installed upright, correctly spaced and securely set before the panels are fitted.
Fit the gravel board beneath the panel to keep the timber raised above direct ground contact. Taller panels can be heavy, so they should be lifted and lowered carefully by more than one person to avoid damaging the panel, gravel board or concrete post slots.
Installing with Timber Fence Posts
Premium Closeboard Fence Panels can also be installed with timber fence posts. The panels are normally secured using suitable fencing clips or fixings, with the posts correctly spaced and set firmly into the ground.
Use corrosion-resistant exterior fixings and make sure each panel is supported evenly. Fixings should hold the panel securely without being overtightened or driven in a way that damages the back rails.
Fit a Gravel Board Beneath the Panel
Installing a gravel board beneath each closeboard panel helps prevent the bottom of the timber from sitting directly against soil, grass and garden debris. It also provides a defined base beneath the fence and can make future panel replacement easier.
Remember that the gravel board contributes to the overall finished fence height. Choose the panel and gravel board together so the completed installation reaches the required height.
Keep Each Panel Level and Supported
Check the level and alignment as each section is installed rather than waiting until the complete run is finished. Small differences between posts can become increasingly noticeable across a longer fence line.
Do not leave the full weight of a panel unsupported while adjusting it. Keep the panel securely held until it is correctly positioned and fixed in place.
Allow for Natural Timber Movement
Timber naturally responds to changes in moisture and temperature. Small changes in colour, surface checking, minor splits and movement can occur as the panels weather outdoors. These characteristics do not necessarily indicate a manufacturing fault.
If you are unsure about the installation, ground conditions or the correct fencing components for your project, seek advice from an experienced fencing installer before work begins.
Caring for Premium Closeboard Fence Panels
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are manufactured using pressure-treated timber to help protect against rot and decay. Although pressure treatment provides important protection, regular inspection and sensible maintenance can help preserve the appearance and condition of the fence over time.
Inspect the Fence Regularly
Check the panels, posts, gravel boards and fixings periodically, particularly after strong winds or severe weather. Look for loose fixings, movement around the posts, damaged boards or vegetation placing unnecessary pressure against the fence.
Dealing with small issues early can help prevent further damage and may avoid the need to replace an entire fence section.
Keep the Bottom of the Panel Clear
Soil, leaves and garden debris should not be allowed to build up against the bottom of the timber panel. Prolonged contact with damp material can expose the timber to unnecessary moisture.
Installing suitable gravel boards beneath the panels helps keep the timber raised above direct ground contact and makes it easier to maintain a clear area along the bottom of the fence.
Cleaning Closeboard Fence Panels
General dirt and surface growth can usually be removed using a soft brush and clean water. Avoid using excessive pressure from a pressure washer, as this may damage the surface of the timber or leave an uneven finish.
Allow the panels to dry naturally after cleaning before applying any compatible timber treatment, stain or paint.
Can Closeboard Panels Be Painted or Stained?
Pressure-treated fence panels can be painted or stained once the timber is sufficiently dry and the chosen product is suitable for exterior pressure-treated wood. Always follow the treatment manufacturer's preparation and application instructions.
A decorative treatment can change the colour of the fence and may provide additional surface protection, but it should not be applied while the panels are still holding excess moisture.
Protect Cut Timber
If a panel, post or gravel board is cut during installation, the newly exposed timber should be coated with a suitable end-grain or cut-end preservative. Cutting through pressure-treated timber exposes an area that may not have the same level of protection as the original outer surface.
Timber Movement in Hot and Dry Weather
Timber is a natural material and will respond to changes in temperature and moisture. During prolonged hot and dry weather, boards may dry more quickly, which can lead to minor movement, surface checking or small splits.
Lightly wetting the panels with clean water during the cooler evening can help reduce rapid drying during extended periods of very hot weather. Avoid saturating the timber, and do not apply water during the hottest part of the day.
Natural Changes in Appearance
Pressure-treated timber may gradually weather and change colour when exposed to sunlight and rain. Small knots, colour variation, minor surface splits and natural movement are normal characteristics of timber and do not automatically indicate that the panel is defective.
Regular care, correct installation and keeping the panels clear of prolonged ground contact will help your closeboard fence remain secure and presentable for as long as possible.
Can Trellis Be Added to Premium Closeboard Fence Panels?
Trellis can be added above Premium Closeboard Fence Panels to create a more decorative finish, support climbing plants or add height without making the upper part of the fence feel completely enclosed.
Combining closeboard fencing with trellis works particularly well in gardens where privacy is important but some light and airflow are still preferred. The solid closeboard panel provides the main boundary, while the trellis creates a lighter and more decorative section above it.
Choosing the Right Trellis Style
Sky Fencing supplies a range of trellis panels in different heights and designs. Square trellis provides a traditional garden appearance and is suitable for supporting climbing plants, while slatted designs can create a more contemporary finish.
The trellis style should complement the appearance of the closeboard panels, posts and surrounding garden. Consider how much visibility, decoration and plant support you require before selecting a design.
Adding Trellis Above a New Fence
Where trellis is being included as part of a complete new installation, plan the panel height, trellis height and gravel board together. This makes it easier to select posts of a suitable length and achieve the intended overall fence height.
The trellis must be securely supported and fitted using suitable exterior fixings. The posts should also be capable of supporting the complete fencing arrangement, particularly in exposed locations.
Adding Trellis to an Existing Fence
Trellis may be fitted above an existing closeboard fence where the posts and current installation are in suitable condition. Inspect the posts carefully before adding extra height or weight, as older or damaged posts may require reinforcement or replacement.
Before increasing the overall height of a boundary, check whether any restrictions or permissions apply to your property and location.
Using Trellis for Climbing Plants
Trellis provides a useful structure for climbing plants and can help soften the appearance of a solid timber fence. Choose plants suitable for the position and avoid allowing excessive weight or dense growth to place unnecessary pressure on the trellis and fence panels.
Plants should be maintained regularly so they do not trap excessive moisture against the timber or make it difficult to inspect the fence for damage.
What Do You Need to Install Closeboard Fence Panels?
A complete fencing project normally requires more than the panels alone. Planning the posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fixings at the same time helps ensure that every component is compatible and reduces the risk of delays during installation.
Fence Posts
You will normally need one post at each end of the fence run and one between each panel. Choose either slotted concrete fence posts or timber fence posts to suit your preferred installation method and finished appearance.
The required post length will depend on the panel height, gravel board height and the amount of post that must be set into the ground. Check the complete finished fence height before ordering.
Gravel Boards
A gravel board fitted beneath each panel helps keep the timber away from direct contact with soil, grass and garden debris. Concrete gravel boards are commonly paired with slotted concrete posts, while wooden gravel boards provide a consistent all-timber finish when used with timber posts.
Post Concrete
Fence posts must be set securely to provide adequate support for the completed fence. Our post concrete can be used when installing suitable concrete or timber fence posts, subject to the product instructions and ground conditions.
The quantity required will vary according to the post size, hole dimensions and site conditions, so calculate the amount needed before beginning the installation.
Panel Fixings
When fitting panels to timber posts, use suitable exterior-grade panel clips or corrosion-resistant fixings. The fixings must be appropriate for outdoor use and should secure the back rails without damaging the timber.
Panels installed between slotted concrete posts are supported within the post slots and do not normally require the same panel clips used with timber posts.
Post Caps and Finishing Accessories
Post caps can provide a neater finished appearance and help protect the exposed tops of timber posts. Decorative trellis panels may also be added where a lighter or more decorative upper section is required.
Order the Complete Fencing System Together
Before placing your order, check the number and size of the panels, posts and gravel boards required, together with the necessary post concrete and fixings. Ordering the complete system together helps ensure that the components arrive ready for the project and are correctly matched to the intended fence height.
Why Buy Premium Closeboard Fence Panels from Sky Fencing?
Sky Fencing manufactures all of our closeboard fence panels in-house, giving us direct control over how each panel is constructed. We supply homeowners, landscapers, builders and fencing contractors with panels suitable for single replacements, complete garden boundaries and larger trade projects.
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are manufactured with 19 overlapping boards, while many standard panels available elsewhere use only 18. We also use 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails to help prevent rust and reduce the risk of unsightly corrosion marks appearing on the timber.
Manufactured In-House
Because we manufacture the panels ourselves, we are not relying on finished products supplied by another manufacturer. This allows us to maintain consistent construction across the full range of heights from 2ft to 6ft.
Complete Fencing Materials Available
Alongside the panels, Sky Fencing supplies the main components required to complete the installation, including concrete fence posts, timber fence posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fencing accessories.
This makes it easier to order compatible materials together rather than sourcing different parts of the fencing system from several suppliers.
Suitable for Homeowners and Trade Customers
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are available to both the public and trade. Whether you need one replacement panel or materials for a complete fencing project, our team can help you select the correct panel heights, posts and gravel boards.
Delivery and Collection
Customers can order for delivery throughout the Sky Fencing delivery area or arrange collection once the order is ready. Delivery availability and charges depend on the delivery postcode and order value.
Premium Closeboard Fence Panel FAQs
What is a Premium Closeboard Fence Panel?
A Premium Closeboard Fence Panel is a traditional timber fencing panel made with overlapping vertical boards secured to horizontal back rails. The overlapping construction creates a solid boundary with good privacy, making closeboard panels suitable for rear gardens, side boundaries and replacement fencing.
Does Sky Fencing manufacture its own closeboard panels?
Yes. Sky Fencing manufactures all of our Premium and Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels in-house. This gives us direct control over the panel construction and helps us maintain consistent quality across the full range of available heights.
How many boards are used in each panel?
Each Sky Fencing closeboard panel is manufactured with 19 overlapping boards. Many standard closeboard panels sold elsewhere use only 18 boards, so this is an important construction detail to compare when choosing your fencing.
What size back rails are used?
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels use 47 × 32mm back rails. Our separate Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels use larger 75 × 32mm back rails for additional rigidity.
How many back rails does each panel have?
The number of back rails depends on the height of the panel. Our 2ft panels have two rails, our 3ft and 4ft panels have three rails, and our 5ft, 5ft 6in and 6ft panels have four rails.
What type of nails are used?
We manufacture our closeboard panels using 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails. The galvanised coating helps protect the fixings against rust and corrosion, reducing the risk of rust marks appearing on the timber.
Are Premium Closeboard Fence Panels pressure treated?
Yes. The timber is pressure treated to help protect it against rot and decay during outdoor use. Pressure treatment does not prevent all natural timber movement, colour changes or minor surface splits, so correct installation and sensible maintenance are still important.
What heights are available?
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are available in 2ft, 3ft, 4ft, 5ft, 5ft 6in and 6ft heights. Remember that any gravel board installed beneath the panel will increase the overall finished fence height.
Can closeboard panels be installed with concrete posts?
Yes. Premium Closeboard Fence Panels can be installed between slotted concrete fence posts. A compatible concrete gravel board is normally positioned beneath the panel to keep the timber raised above direct ground contact.
Can closeboard panels be installed with timber posts?
Yes. They can be secured to timber fence posts using suitable exterior-grade panel clips or corrosion-resistant fixings. Timber posts provide a traditional all-timber appearance.
Should I use a gravel board?
Using a gravel board is recommended because it helps keep the bottom of the timber panel away from soil, grass, moisture and garden debris. Customers can choose from compatible concrete or wooden gravel boards.
What is the difference between Premium and Premium Heavy Duty panels?
The main difference is the back rail size. Premium panels use 47 × 32mm rails and are suitable for most residential fencing projects. Premium Heavy Duty panels use larger 75 × 32mm rails and may be preferred for exposed locations or projects where a heavier construction is required.
Can trellis be added above a closeboard fence panel?
Yes. Suitable trellis panels can be installed above closeboard fencing to create a decorative finish, support climbing plants or provide a lighter upper section. The posts must be suitable for the full combined height and weight.
Can pressure-treated closeboard panels be painted or stained?
Yes, once the timber is sufficiently dry. Use a paint, stain or treatment designed for exterior pressure-treated timber and follow the product manufacturer’s preparation and application instructions.
How should closeboard panels be maintained?
Inspect the fence periodically, keep soil and garden debris away from the bottom of the panels, and check the posts and fixings after severe weather. Surface dirt can normally be removed with a soft brush and clean water.
Can I order one replacement panel?
Yes. Sky Fencing supplies individual replacement panels as well as complete fencing materials for larger installations. Check the height and width of the existing panel before ordering, as older fence runs may not always match current nominal sizes exactly.
Do you supply everything needed for installation?
Sky Fencing supplies closeboard panels alongside concrete posts, timber posts, gravel boards, post concrete and suitable fencing accessories.
Are delivery and collection available?
Yes. Orders can be placed for delivery within the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once they have been prepared and confirmed as ready. Delivery availability and charges depend on the delivery postcode and order value.
Order Premium Closeboard Fence Panels from Sky Fencing
Sky Fencing manufactures all of our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels in-house using pressure-treated timber, 19 overlapping boards, 47 × 32mm back rails and 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails. Available in heights from 2ft to 6ft, they provide a dependable choice for replacement fencing, garden boundaries and complete new installations.
Before ordering, consider the required panel height, the type of fence posts being used and whether a gravel board will be installed beneath each panel. We also supply the supporting materials needed to complete your project, including concrete fence posts, timber fence posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fencing accessories.
For exposed locations or projects where a heavier construction is preferred, compare this range with our Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels, manufactured using larger 75 × 32mm back rails.
Browse the available sizes above and select the Premium Closeboard Fence Panels required for your project. Orders can be arranged for delivery within the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once confirmed as ready.
