How to identify quality fencing products for your business or property

If you’re planning to install a new fence to protect your garden or business premises there are a lot of things to think about. You need to decide what type of fencing you need, where the fence will run and what planning applications may be required. All this before you’ve chosen a suitable fence.

But choosing fence panels is where the fun really starts. Fence panels are available in an endless range of styles, colours and materials from traditional wood panelling to galvanised steel palisades and more. With so many different styles to choose from it is easy to be influenced by the style and forget about the quality.

But when it comes to fencing, quality is the most important thing. A cheap fence will soon degrade and will have to be replaced much sooner than a quality fence would. So in this article, we are going to look at five ways you can identify quality fencing products for your business or property.

1. Always buy pressure treated timber

When choosing a wooden fence you should always look for panels and posts which are made from pressure treated timber. This will help preserve the wood and prevent rot when exposed to the elements. Pressure treated posts can last up to 40 years in the ground before they begin to rot.

Pressure treated timber will always be marked as such and will come with a warranty for added peace of mind. But the use of pressure treated timber isn’t a guarantee on its own that you are buying a quality fence panel. So always combine it with checking the other recommendations below.

2. Pay careful attention to the fit and finish

All wooden fence panels, posts and pales should be nicely finished and made from thick wood. If you find that the wood is thin and has been roughly cut, with splinters and chunks missing, or if the panel has an excessive amount of knots. This is a sure sign of poor quality construction. A fence such as this may seem like good value, but it won’t last very long once it has been exposed to the elements.

3. Look for powder coated metal fencing

If you’re purchasing a metal security fence for your business, you should look for posts and panels that have been powder coated. Powder coating helps to protect the steel or aluminium from corrosion and lasts much longer than traditional paint. For best results, you should ensure the powder coating is at least 3 mm on posts and panels.

4. Check the integrity of construction

Before purchasing a fence panel take a good look at it to ensure that it is constructed using sturdy battens/rails and pales. Fence panels constructed using thin wood and flimsy battens will not last very long once they are exposed to the elements.

Take a good look at the fence panel on both sides and shake it from side to side to see how sturdy the construction is. A fence panel that has been constructed properly shouldn’t flex too much. If you find the panel flexes and creaks in your hand, just imagine what it will do when the wind gets hold of it.

5. Check the warranty

Finally, all quality fence panels, both wood and metal, should come with a lengthy warranty. All reputable manufacturers will stand by their products by providing at least a 2-year warranty, with some manufacturers going further by providing a lifetime warranty.

If you would like more information about choosing quality fencing panels for your home or business, contact Tasmania’s leading fencing specialist today on 03 6326 6006.