What is the difference between closeboard and featheredge fence panels?

Fencing Product

Understanding the Difference Between a Closeboard and a Featheredge Fence Panel

When selecting fencing for your garden, it’s essential to understand the distinctions between closeboard and featheredge fence panels. Both options are popular in the UK and offer unique benefits. Our aim is to  help you make an informed decision when choosing to change or add fencing to your garden.

What Are Closeboard Fence Panels?

Closeboard fencing, also known as featherboard or feather edge fencing, is constructed using vertical timber boards that slightly overlap each other. These boards are fixed to horizontal rails, creating a solid and sturdy barrier. These types of boards are not only popular but provide excellent privacy and security for your garden.

Fencing Product

What Are Featheredge Fence Panels?

Featheredge fence panels are essentially the same as closeboard panels. The terms “featheredge,” “featherboard,” and “closeboard” are often used to describe similar panels. They all refer to the same style of fencing, characterised by overlapping vertical boards fixed to horizontal rails.

Fencing Product

Key Features of Closeboard (Featheredge) Fencing

  • Durability: Constructed from sturdy timber, these panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring longevity.
  • Privacy: The overlapping vertical boards provide a solid barrier, offering excellent privacy for your garden.
  • Versatility: Suitable for various property types, from traditional homes to modern designs.

Consider how you will be installing your fence

Installing closeboard (featheredge) fencing involves securing vertical gravel or wood boards to horizontal rails, which are attached to fence posts. This method allows for customisation in height and length, making it adaptable to different garden sizes and shapes. However, it requires precise workmanship to ensure a neat and sturdy finish.

Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance, such as treating the timber with preservative stains or paints, is necessary to protect the wood from rot and insect damage. Inspecting the fence periodically for any signs of wear or damage will help prolong its lifespan.

Cost Implications

The cost of closeboard (featheredge) fencing can vary based on the quality of materials and the complexity of installation. While it may be more expensive than simpler fencing options, its durability and aesthetic appeal often justify the investment.

Measurements for Closeboard and Featheredge Fence Panels

When choosing between closeboard and featheredge fence panels, understanding their typical measurements is crucial. Both types are highly adaptable, but they are constructed in slightly different ways, which can impact their sizing.

Closeboard Fence Panel Measurements

  • Height: Closeboard panels are commonly available in standard heights ranging from 3 feet (0.9 metres) to 6 feet (1.8 metres), making them suitable for various levels of privacy and security.
  • Width: Standard widths for closeboard panels are typically 6 feet (1.83 metres).
  • Individual Boards: Each vertical board is usually around 100mm (4 inches) wide and 19-22mm thick, overlapping slightly to ensure durability and coverage.

Featheredge Fence Panel Measurements

  • Height: Like closeboard panels, featheredge fencing typically comes in heights from 3 feet to 6 feet, allowing for customisation to fit your garden’s needs.
  • Width: Featheredge panels are also usually 6 feet wide, but they can be constructed on-site to fit specific spaces.
  • Individual Boards: Featheredge boards are tapered, starting at 20-22mm thick at one edge and tapering to a thinner edge, generally around 8-10mm. The width of each board is usually 100-125mm (4-5 inches).