How to Choose the Right Fence Panels
Choosing the right fence panels depends on the level of privacy required, the appearance of the garden, the strength needed and the type of boundary being created. A panel that works well for a private rear garden may not be the best option for a front boundary, decorative garden division or exposed location.
Before ordering, consider the intended use of the fence, the required panel height and whether the panels will be installed with timber or concrete posts. You should also allow for the height of any gravel board fitted beneath the panels.
Premium Closeboard Fence Panels
Our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels provide a traditional timber appearance with overlapping vertical boards that create a strong and private garden boundary. Sky Fencing manufactures these panels in-house using 19 boards, 47 × 32mm back rails and 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails.
They are a dependable all-round choice for rear gardens, side passages, replacement fencing and complete new fence installations.
Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels
Our Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels offer the same traditional closeboard appearance but use larger 75 × 32mm back rails for additional rigidity.
They may be preferred for exposed gardens, more demanding installations or projects where a heavier and more substantial panel is required.
Waney Lap Fence Panels
Waney Lap Fence Panels are constructed with overlapping horizontal timber boards. They provide a familiar traditional garden-fencing appearance and are commonly used for residential boundaries, replacement panels and general garden fencing.
They are worth considering where customers prefer the appearance of horizontal overlapping boards rather than the vertical construction of closeboard fencing.
Decorative Fence Panels
Our Decorative Fence Panels are suitable for customers who want their fencing to become a more noticeable feature within the garden. The range includes different slatted, lattice-top, arched and contemporary panel designs.
Decorative panels can be used for garden boundaries, seating areas, patio screening and internal garden divisions where appearance is as important as enclosure.
Picket Fence Panels
Picket Fence Panels create a lower and more open boundary than solid fencing. The gaps between the vertical pales allow greater visibility, making picket panels suitable for front gardens, pathways, decorative boundaries and separating different areas of a garden.
They are a suitable option where the purpose of the fence is to define a space without creating a solid privacy screen.
Jacksons Fence Panels
Our Jacksons Fence Panels provide an additional selection of branded timber fencing designs. Browse the range where a particular Jacksons panel style, construction or appearance is required for the project.
Consider Privacy and Visibility
Solid closeboard and waney lap panels are generally chosen where privacy and screening are important. Decorative panels can provide varying levels of privacy depending on their design, while picket panels create a more open boundary with greater visibility.
Consider the Location of the Fence
Rear gardens and side boundaries often require taller, more private panels. Front gardens, pathways and internal garden divisions may be better suited to lower or more open panel styles.
For exposed positions, consider the panel construction, supporting posts and surrounding conditions carefully. The entire fencing system must be suitable for the location rather than choosing the panel in isolation.
Check the Complete Finished Height
The finished fence height includes the panel and any gravel board
Measure the fence line and check the required finished height before ordering the panels, posts and gravel boards.
Choosing the Right Fence Panel Height
The correct fence panel height will depend on where the fence is being installed, how much privacy is required and whether a gravel board will be fitted beneath the panel. Sky Fencing supplies fence panels in a range of heights, although the exact sizes available will vary between panel styles.
Low Fence Panels
Lower fence panels are commonly used for front gardens, pathways, decorative boundaries and internal garden divisions. They help define an area without creating a fully enclosed appearance or completely blocking visibility.
Picket Fence Panels and lower decorative panels are particularly suitable where an open and welcoming boundary is preferred.
Medium-Height Fence Panels
Medium-height panels provide more enclosure while allowing the garden to remain relatively open. They can work well for side gardens, separating different outdoor areas and boundaries where some privacy is needed without using a full-height panel.
Depending on the required appearance, customers may choose closeboard, waney lap or decorative fence panels in a suitable medium height.
Full-Height Privacy Fence Panels
Taller fence panels are generally selected for rear gardens, side passages and property boundaries where privacy and screening are important. Solid panel styles such as Premium Closeboard Fence Panels, Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels and Waney Lap Fence Panels are commonly chosen for this purpose.
The panel construction, supporting posts and installation should all be suitable for the height and location of the completed fence.
Remember to Include the Gravel Board
The advertised panel height does not include any gravel board fitted beneath it. A gravel board raises the timber panel above direct ground contact and increases the overall finished height of the fence.
For example, a 5ft 6in panel fitted above a 6-inch gravel board will create an overall fence height of approximately 6ft. A 5ft panel fitted above a 12-inch gravel board will achieve a similar overall height.
Measure the Complete Fence Line
Measure the existing boundary carefully before ordering, especially when replacing older panels. Ground levels, existing posts and previous installations can affect the actual space available, and older fencing may not match current standard sizes exactly.
If the new fence will increase the height of an existing boundary, check whether any restrictions or permissions apply before installation begins.
Choosing Fence Posts and Gravel Boards
The fence panels are only one part of a complete fencing system. The posts and gravel boards must be suitable for the panel style, width, finished fence height and installation method. Choosing compatible components together helps create a secure, level and longer-lasting fence.
Concrete Fence Posts
Slotted concrete fence posts provide a strong and low-maintenance support system for compatible fence panels. The panels and gravel boards sit between the post slots, allowing individual sections to be removed and replaced more easily if required.
Concrete posts are commonly chosen for solid garden fencing where durability and reduced ongoing maintenance are important. Before ordering, check that the panel width, gravel board and post slot are compatible.
Wooden Fence Posts
Wooden fence posts create a traditional all-timber appearance and can be used with many closeboard, waney lap, decorative and picket panel installations.
Panels are normally secured to timber posts using suitable exterior-grade clips or corrosion-resistant fixings. Timber posts also provide greater flexibility where panels need to be fixed rather than positioned inside a slotted post system.
Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards form a durable barrier between the timber fence panel and the ground. They help protect the lower edge of the panel from damp soil, grass and garden debris while providing a solid base beneath the fence.
They are commonly combined with slotted concrete posts, although the selected panel, gravel board and post system should always be checked for compatibility before ordering.
Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards provide a more traditional finish and work particularly well with wooden fence posts. They raise the panel above direct ground contact while maintaining a consistent timber appearance across the fence run.
As outdoor timber products, wooden gravel boards should be inspected periodically and kept clear of excessive soil, standing water and garden debris wherever possible.
Which Post and Gravel Board Combination Should I Choose?
Concrete posts and concrete gravel boards are a practical choice where durability and lower maintenance are the main priorities. Wooden posts and wooden gravel boards may be preferred where a natural, all-timber appearance is more important.
The best combination may also depend on the selected panel style. Solid closeboard and waney lap panels, decorative panels and picket fencing can have different dimensions and installation requirements, so check the individual product details before ordering.
Remember the Finished Fence Height
Any gravel board installed beneath the panel will increase the completed fence height. Select the panel, gravel board and appropriately sized fence posts together so the finished system reaches the intended height.
Choosing Fence Posts and Gravel Boards
The fence panels are only one part of a complete fencing system. The posts and gravel boards must be suitable for the panel style, width, finished fence height and installation method. Choosing compatible components together helps create a secure, level and longer-lasting fence.
Concrete Fence Posts
Slotted concrete fence posts provide a strong and low-maintenance support system for compatible fence panels. The panels and gravel boards sit between the post slots, allowing individual sections to be removed and replaced more easily if required.
Concrete posts are commonly chosen for solid garden fencing where durability and reduced ongoing maintenance are important. Before ordering, check that the panel width, gravel board and post slot are compatible.
Wooden Fence Posts
Wooden fence posts create a traditional all-timber appearance and can be used with many closeboard, waney lap, decorative and picket panel installations.
Panels are normally secured to timber posts using suitable exterior-grade clips or corrosion-resistant fixings. Timber posts also provide greater flexibility where panels need to be fixed rather than positioned inside a slotted post system.
Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards form a durable barrier between the timber fence panel and the ground. They help protect the lower edge of the panel from damp soil, grass and garden debris while providing a solid base beneath the fence.
They are commonly combined with slotted concrete posts, although the selected panel, gravel board and post system should always be checked for compatibility before ordering.
Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards provide a more traditional finish and work particularly well with wooden fence posts. They raise the panel above direct ground contact while maintaining a consistent timber appearance across the fence run.
As outdoor timber products, wooden gravel boards should be inspected periodically and kept clear of excessive soil, standing water and garden debris wherever possible.
Which Post and Gravel Board Combination Should I Choose?
Concrete posts and concrete gravel boards are a practical choice where durability and lower maintenance are the main priorities. Wooden posts and wooden gravel boards may be preferred where a natural, all-timber appearance is more important.
The best combination may also depend on the selected panel style. Solid closeboard and waney lap panels, decorative panels and picket fencing can have different dimensions and installation requirements, so check the individual product details before ordering.
Remember the Finished Fence Height
Any gravel board installed beneath the panel will increase the completed fence height. Select the panel, gravel board and appropriately sized fence posts together so the finished system reaches the intended height.
Installing Garden Fence Panels
Correct installation helps fence panels remain level, secure and properly supported. Before beginning the work, measure the full boundary, check the ground conditions and confirm that the selected panels, posts, gravel boards and fixings are compatible.
Plan the Fence Line
Mark the intended fence line and identify any changes in ground level before digging the post holes. On sloping ground, the panels may need to be installed in stepped sections rather than following the slope continuously.
Measure the actual panels and posts being used instead of relying only on nominal product sizes. Allow for the width of each post when calculating the spacing across the complete fence run.
Installing Panels with Concrete Posts
Compatible fence panels can be installed between slotted concrete fence posts. The posts must be positioned upright, correctly spaced and securely set before the gravel boards and panels are lowered into the slots.
Concrete panels, posts and gravel boards can be heavy. Use suitable lifting methods and enough people to handle the materials safely without damaging the products or the surrounding property.
Installing Panels with Wooden Posts
Many panel styles can be fitted to wooden fence posts using suitable exterior-grade panel clips or corrosion-resistant fixings. The fixings should secure the panel through its supporting framework without damaging or splitting the timber.
Check the alignment and level of every panel as the installation progresses. Small differences between posts can become increasingly noticeable across a longer boundary.
Use a Gravel Board Beneath Timber Panels
Installing a gravel board beneath the panel helps prevent the lower edge of the timber from sitting directly against damp 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 increases the overall finished height, so choose the panel and gravel board together before selecting the required post length.
Setting the Fence Posts
The posts provide the main structural support for the fence and must be securely installed for the ground conditions and completed fence height. Suitable post concrete can be used when setting timber or concrete posts, following the product instructions.
The amount required will depend on the post dimensions, hole size and ground conditions. Work out the required quantity before installation so each post can be completed without interruption.
Allow for Natural Timber Movement
Timber naturally responds to changing moisture levels and temperatures. Small variations in colour, minor movement, knots and surface checking may develop as timber fence panels weather outdoors.
Panels should be properly supported and installed without forcing them into an opening that is too narrow. Correct spacing and sensible maintenance will help the completed fence perform reliably over time.
Check Before Installation
Before fitting the panels, inspect the products and confirm that the sizes, styles and quantities match the order. It is easier to resolve any issue before the posts are permanently positioned and the fence run has been started.
Where the boundary, ground conditions or installation requirements are uncertain, consider using an experienced fencing installer.
Caring for Timber Fence Panels
Regular inspection and sensible maintenance can help timber fence panels remain secure and presentable for longer. The exact care required will depend on the panel style, timber treatment, installation method and level of exposure to sun, wind and moisture.
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 framework, broken boards or vegetation placing unnecessary pressure against the fence.
Addressing small issues early may help prevent further movement or damage across the fence run.
Keep Timber Clear of the Ground
Soil, leaves, grass cuttings and garden debris should not be allowed to build up against the bottom of timber fence panels. 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 the bottom of the fence easier to maintain.
Cleaning Fence Panels
General dirt and surface growth can normally be removed using a soft brush and clean water. Avoid using excessive pressure from a pressure washer, as this may damage the timber surface or leave an uneven appearance.
Allow the panels to dry naturally after cleaning before applying any suitable exterior timber paint, stain or treatment.
Painting or Staining Timber Fence Panels
Many timber fence panels can be painted or stained once the wood is sufficiently dry. Choose a product designed for exterior timber and check that it is compatible with pressure-treated wood where applicable.
Always follow the treatment manufacturer’s preparation, drying and application instructions. Applying a coating while the timber still contains excess moisture can affect the finished appearance.
Protect Any Cut Timber
If a pressure-treated panel, post or wooden gravel board is cut during installation, coat the newly exposed area with a suitable cut-end or end-grain preservative. Cutting the timber may expose material that has not received the same protection as the original outer surface.
Timber Movement During Hot Weather
Timber is a natural material and responds to changes in moisture and temperature. During prolonged hot and dry weather, boards may lose moisture quickly, which can contribute to movement, surface checking or small splits.
Lightly wetting timber fence panels with clean water during the cooler evening can help reduce rapid drying during extended periods of very hot weather. Avoid saturating the timber or applying water during the hottest part of the day.
Keep Plants Under Control
Climbing plants and shrubs can soften the appearance of a fence, but dense or heavy growth may trap moisture and place additional pressure on the panels. Keep plants maintained so the fence can still be inspected and air can circulate around the timber.
Where plant support is required, consider using suitable trellis panels rather than allowing heavy growth to rely entirely on the fence panel.
Natural Changes in Timber
Timber fence panels may gradually change colour when exposed to sunlight and rain. Knots, grain variation, minor splits, surface checking and small amounts of movement are natural characteristics of timber and do not automatically indicate a fault.
Correct installation, suitable posts and gravel boards, regular checks and sensible maintenance will help the complete fencing system remain secure and attractive for as long as possible.
What Do You Need to Install Fence Panels?
A complete fence normally requires more than the panels alone. Ordering the posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fixings alongside the panels helps ensure that every component is compatible and ready when installation begins.
Fence Posts
You will usually need one post at each end of the fence run and one post between each panel. The required number may change where the fence includes corners, gates or changes in direction.
Choose from slotted concrete fence posts or wooden fence posts, depending on the panel style, installation method and finished appearance required.
The post length must allow for the panel height, gravel board height and the section of post installed below ground level. Select the complete fencing system before choosing the final post size.
Gravel Boards
A gravel board is normally fitted beneath each timber fence panel. It helps keep the bottom of the panel away from damp soil, grass and garden debris while creating a defined base along the fence line.
Concrete gravel boards are commonly installed with slotted concrete posts, while wooden gravel boards provide a traditional all-timber appearance when used with wooden posts.
Post Concrete
Fence posts must be securely set to support the weight and height of the completed fence. Suitable post concrete can be used when installing timber or concrete posts, following the individual product instructions.
The amount required will depend on the post dimensions, hole size and ground conditions. Work out the quantity needed for the complete fence run before starting the installation.
Panel Clips and Exterior Fixings
Panels installed against wooden posts normally require suitable panel clips or corrosion-resistant exterior fixings. The fixings should secure the supporting framework of the panel without splitting or damaging the timber.
Panels installed between slotted concrete posts are supported within the post slots and do not normally require the same clips used for timber-post installations.
Post Caps
Post caps can provide a neater finished appearance and help protect the exposed top of a wooden fence post from direct weathering. Select a cap that matches the dimensions and style of the chosen post.
Trellis and Decorative Finishing
Suitable trellis panels can be installed above or alongside certain fence panel styles where a more decorative finish, plant support or a lighter upper section is required.
Where trellis is being added above the fence, include its height and weight when selecting the supporting posts and planning the complete installation.
Check Everything Before Ordering
Before placing your order, confirm the number, width and height of the panels required, together with the correct posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fixings. Check individual product details carefully, as compatibility and dimensions can vary between different fence panel ranges.
Ordering the complete fencing system together reduces the risk of missing components and helps ensure that the materials are correctly matched to the intended finished fence height.
Why Buy Fence Panels from Sky Fencing?
Sky Fencing supplies a wide range of timber fence panels for homeowners, landscapers, builders and fencing contractors. Whether you need one replacement panel or materials for a complete new boundary, you can order the panels and supporting fencing products together from one supplier.
Closeboard Panels Manufactured In-House
We manufacture all of our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels and Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels in-house. This gives us direct control over their construction and allows us to maintain consistent specifications across the available sizes.
Our closeboard panels are manufactured with 19 overlapping boards and 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails. Many standard closeboard panels available elsewhere use only 18 boards, while lower-specification fixings may be more susceptible to rust and corrosion over time.
A Choice of Traditional and Decorative Styles
Alongside our in-house manufactured closeboard panels, we supply a broad choice of Waney Lap Fence Panels, Decorative Fence Panels, Picket Fence Panels and Jacksons Fence Panels.
This allows customers to compare solid privacy fencing, traditional garden panels, open boundaries and decorative designs before choosing the style best suited to their property.
Complete Fencing Materials Available
Sky Fencing supplies the main products required to complete a fence installation, including concrete fence posts, wooden fence posts, gravel boards, post concrete and suitable fencing accessories.
Ordering compatible components together can make planning easier and reduce the risk of arriving on site without an essential part of the fencing system.
Suitable for Homeowners and Trade Customers
Our fence panels are available to both the public and trade. We can supply individual panels for repairs and replacements as well as larger quantities for full garden installations, landscaping work and trade projects.
Delivery and Collection Available
Orders can be arranged for delivery throughout the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once they have been prepared and confirmed as ready. Delivery availability, minimum order requirements and charges depend on the delivery postcode and order value.
Practical Fencing Advice
Choosing the correct panel, post and gravel board combination is important for achieving the intended height, appearance and installation method. Our team can help customers understand the available options before ordering.
Fence Panel FAQs
Which type of fence panel should I choose?
The best panel depends on the level of privacy, strength and appearance required. Premium Closeboard Fence Panels are a strong all-round choice, while Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels provide additional rigidity. Waney lap panels offer a traditional horizontal finish, decorative panels create a more distinctive appearance, and picket panels provide a lower, more open boundary.
Which fence panels provide the most privacy?
Solid panel styles generally provide the greatest privacy. Closeboard and waney lap panels create substantial timber screens, while the privacy offered by decorative panels varies according to the spacing and design of the boards.
What is the difference between closeboard and waney lap panels?
Closeboard panels use overlapping vertical boards secured to horizontal back rails. Waney Lap Fence Panels use overlapping horizontal boards. Both provide traditional garden fencing, but the construction and finished appearance are different.
What is the difference between Premium and Heavy Duty Closeboard panels?
Our Premium Closeboard panels use 47 × 32mm back rails and are suitable for most general garden fencing projects. Our Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels use larger 75 × 32mm back rails for a heavier and more rigid construction.
Does Sky Fencing manufacture its own fence panels?
Sky Fencing manufactures all of our Premium and Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels in-house. Our other panel ranges include selected decorative, picket, waney lap and branded fence panels.
How are Sky Fencing closeboard panels constructed?
Our in-house manufactured closeboard panels use 19 overlapping boards and 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails. Premium panels use 47 × 32mm back rails, while Premium Heavy Duty panels use larger 75 × 32mm rails.
Are timber fence panels pressure treated?
Many of the timber panels supplied by Sky Fencing are pressure treated, but treatment and specifications can vary between ranges. Check the individual product description before ordering to confirm the treatment, dimensions and construction of the selected panel.
What fence panel heights are available?
Available heights vary by panel style. Our closeboard range includes heights from 2ft to 6ft, while decorative, picket, waney lap and branded ranges may have different options. Check the individual category and product listings for the sizes currently available.
Does the stated panel height include the gravel board?
No. The advertised panel height normally refers to the panel alone. Any gravel board fitted beneath it will increase the overall finished fence height.
Can fence panels be fitted between concrete posts?
Compatible panels can be installed between slotted concrete fence posts. Check the panel width, post slots and gravel board dimensions before ordering, as compatibility can vary between different panel systems.
Can fence panels be fitted to wooden posts?
Many fence panels can be fitted to wooden fence posts using suitable exterior-grade panel clips or corrosion-resistant fixings. The fixings should be positioned through the supporting framework rather than through unsupported sections of timber.
Should I install a gravel board beneath timber panels?
A gravel board is recommended because it raises the bottom of the timber panel above direct contact with soil, grass, moisture and garden debris. Customers can choose between compatible wooden and concrete gravel boards.
How many fence posts will I need?
A straight fence run normally requires one post at each end and one between each panel. Additional posts may be required for corners, gates, changes in direction or other features within the fence line.
How do I calculate how many fence panels I need?
Measure the complete fence line and divide it by the installed width of one panel section, including the space occupied by the posts. Always measure the actual products being used, as nominal dimensions and existing fence spacing can vary.
Can fence panels be used on sloping ground?
Yes. Fence panels are commonly installed in stepped sections where the ground level changes. The size of each step will depend on the slope, panel height, post positions and required finished appearance.
Can trellis be added above fence panels?
Suitable trellis panels may be installed above certain fencing systems to create a decorative finish, support climbing plants or form a lighter upper section. The posts must be suitable for the full combined height and weight.
Can timber fence panels be painted or stained?
Many timber panels can be painted or stained once the wood is sufficiently dry. Use a product designed for exterior timber and confirm that it is compatible with pressure-treated wood where applicable.
How should fence panels be maintained?
Inspect the panels, posts, fixings and gravel boards regularly, especially after severe weather. Keep soil and debris away from the lower edge of the panels and remove general surface dirt using a soft brush and clean water.
Can I order a single replacement fence panel?
Yes. Sky Fencing supplies individual replacement panels as well as larger quantities for complete installations. Measure the existing opening carefully before ordering because older fencing systems may not match current standard dimensions exactly.
Do you supply the posts and materials needed for installation?
Yes. Alongside fence panels, Sky Fencing supplies concrete fence posts, wooden fence posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fencing accessories.
Are delivery and collection available?
Yes. Orders can be arranged 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 postcode and order value.
Order Fence Panels from Sky Fencing
Sky Fencing supplies a wide range of timber fence panels for replacement fencing, garden boundaries, landscaping projects and complete new installations. Choose from traditional privacy panels, heavier-duty closeboard fencing, decorative designs, picket panels, waney lap panels and selected branded ranges.
We manufacture all of our Premium Closeboard Fence Panels and Premium Heavy Duty Closeboard Fence Panels in-house. Our closeboard panels are made with 19 overlapping boards and 50-micron hot-dipped galvanised nails, helping provide dependable construction and improved protection against rust and corrosion.
Before ordering, consider the panel style, required privacy, finished fence height and preferred installation system. Any gravel board fitted beneath the panel will increase the overall height, so the panels, posts and gravel boards should be selected together.
Alongside our fence panel ranges, we supply the main materials required for installation, including concrete fence posts, wooden fence posts, gravel boards, post concrete and fencing accessories.
Browse the fence panel categories and products above to compare the available styles and sizes. Orders can be arranged for delivery within the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once confirmed as ready.
