Rural Fences: Livestock, Vermin, Repairs, Expenses and More

Ways To Customise A Slat Fence On Your Property

28 July 2023 by Connor Peters

Slat fences are a popular front fencing style for homes that you can customise in various ways. Here are several possibilities. 

Slat Width and Spacing

Something you should think about when planning a slat fence is the size and arrangement of the slats. You will typically have various slat widths to choose from, some narrower and others wider. Plus, with some prefabricated fence components, you can select the spacing. If you want to design your own fence, you can have it custom-built.

The setup of the slats will affect the privacy and airiness of the fence. Construct the barrier with smaller gaps if you want more privacy or wider gaps if you want greater visibility and airflow. Remember that the fence structure will also impact the shade versus sunlight of the front garden.

Fence Height

You can also adjust the height of a slat fence within a specific range that will differ depending on the fencing product. A higher barrier can provide better security and offer more privacy. If you have a taller fence built, you could prevent it from feeling overbearing by adding wider gaps to offset the extra height.

However, before you decide on specifics, verify your local council's regulations regarding permissible structures and heights for fences in your area. They might also restrict other aspects of a design, such as the material used, especially in zones filled with heritage houses.

Material

Another way to customise a slat fence is to choose from materials such as timber, aluminium, and composite. You may also have access to other alternatives.

Timber offers natural beauty; you can stain or paint the slats in various colours. However, the main drawback of wood is the maintenance it requires. You will need to regularly paint, oil, or stain the fence to protect it from rotting and moisture damage. Even if you do this, wooden fences often have a shorter lifespan than aluminium and some composite products. Additionally, wood can be susceptible to insect infestations, depending on the particular timber and the treatments it has undergone.

Another material choice for slat fencing is powder-coated aluminium, which is durable, sturdy, and able to handle hot and cold temperatures. These barriers don't need much maintenance and don't rot or attract termites. Thus, you will save on upkeep costs. However, aluminium can get hot in the summer, possibly affecting some plants against the fence.

Another low-maintenance option is composite timber slats made from wood products and plastic. These fences look like wood but are more resilient and easier to maintain.

Contact a fencing company for more information. 

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