How to Choose the Right Fence for Your Project

Picking the right fencing isn’t just about looks – it’s about security, durability and practicality. Whether you're securing a garden, driveway or commercial site, choosing the right fence saves you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

At J W Grant, we supply a huge range of fencing materials, from timber fence panels and slats to composite fencing and composite posts, ensuring you get a strong, long-lasting solution for your project.

What to Consider When Choosing a Fence

Before deciding, ask yourself:

  • Is privacy a priority? – Solid closeboard panels or composite fencing work best if you want to block views.
  • Do you need security?thick posts and reinforced panels provide extra strength.
  • Do you want a modern or traditional look?Fence slats allow for a sleek contemporary design, while overlap panels give a classic finish.
  • How much maintenance do you want?Pressure-treated timber lasts longer, while composite fencing requires minimal upkeep.

Fence Types & Styles

Whether you’re installing traditional timber fencing, contemporary slatted fencing or composite panels, each has its advantages. Here’s what to consider:

Closeboard Fence Panels

  • Heavy-duty fencing built to last.
  • Vertical boards overlap for extra strength.
  • One of the most popular choices for privacy and security.

Overlap Fence Panels

  • Cost-effective option with horizontal overlapping boards.
  • Provides solid coverage while being lighter than closeboard panels.
  • A great choice for garden boundaries.

Fence Slats for Custom Designs

  • Modern, flexible option for bespoke fencing.
  • Can be installed horizontally or vertically or even diagonally for a super contemporary look.
  • Allows airflow while maintaining privacy.
  • Available in various materials including timber and composite.

Composite Fence Panels

  • Low-maintenance alternative to timber fencing.
  • Highly durable – resistant to weather, rot, and fading.
  • Available in multiple colours and finishes to suit modern designs.
  • Ideal for long-lasting, high-end fencing solutions.

Hit & Miss Fencing

  • Alternating slats on both sides for a stylish semi-private look.
  • Strong and wind-resistant, making it ideal for open areas.
  • Allows airflow while maintaining privacy.

Bespoke Horizontal or Vertical Slat Fencing

  • Customisable modern look, often using timber or composite slats.
  • Perfect for garden feature walls or contemporary boundaries.
  • Offers privacy without feeling too enclosed.

Choosing the Right Fence Posts

Your fence is only as strong as the posts supporting it. Options include:

  • Timber Fence Posts – Natural and cost-effective, but need treatment to prevent rot.
  • Metal Fence PostsModern, strong, and low maintenance. Great for security fencing.
  • Composite Fence Posts - Great with composite fencing - very visually appealing, modern and sleek.

Fence Installation FAQs

1. How deep should fence posts be set?
A good rule is burying one-third of the post length. For example, a 6ft fence needs 2ft underground for stability.

2. Should I use concrete to set fence posts?
Yes – Postcrete is the best option for securing posts quickly and preventing movement. You can buy it here

3. What size fence posts should I use?

  • 75mm posts – Best for low garden fencing.
  • 95mm posts – Needed for taller, heavy-duty fencing. (Most Popular)
  • You can buy posts here

4. Does my wooden fence need treatment?
Absolutely – Applying wood stain, paint, or pressure treatment protects timber from rot, moisture, and UV damage.

Get Your Fencing Supplies from J W Grant

At J W Grant, we stock everything you need for a strong, long-lasting fence, including:

Timber fence panels & posts
Composite fencing
Concrete posts & gravel boards
Fence slats for custom designs
Postcrete for secure installation
Fixings, tools & accessories