Demystifying Your Wooden Fence: A Guide to Understanding Its Components

Are you a homeowner who has recently installed or is planning to install a wooden fence around your property? If so, you're in the right place! Understanding the different parts of a wooden fence and their purposes can improve the overall durability and maintenance of your fence, ultimately saving you time and money down the line. This comprehensive guide will help you familiarise yourself with the various components of a wooden fence and ensure you're well-informed when discussing fencing options with professionals.
1. The Posts: The Foundation of Your Wooden Fence
The wooden fence posts are the vertical pillars that provide support and stability to your wooden fence. They generally come in two thicknesses: 75mm & 100mm.
2. The Rails: The Horizontal Pathway
Rails are the horizontal components of the fence that span between the fence posts. Typically, wooden fences will have two to four rails, depending on your desired fence height and style. The top rail ensures the fence has an even height, while the bottom rail prevents the fence from sagging or warping over time. Additional rails may be placed between the top and bottom rails to secure fence pickets or provide aesthetic appeal.
3. Feather Edge
Feather edge is the wooden boards that connect to the fence rails, creating the primary barrier of your fence. They come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and designs to cater to your taste and the aesthetic of your property. At East Coast Fencing, we offer 125mm feather edge boards.
4. Fence Capping
Although not a structural necessity, adding a cap and trim to your wooden fence can provide a polished and attractive look. Fence caps are decorative post toppers that protect the end grain of the posts from weather damage, while trim is a horizontal board that runs along the top of the pickets, giving your fence a refined appearance and extra layer of protection from the elements.
With a solid understanding of the different parts of a wooden fence, you'll not only be better equipped to discuss your options with professionals but also make better decisions regarding fence design and maintenance. Don't hesitate to consult with a fencing expert to create the perfect fence for your property, keeping both aesthetics and functionality in mind. Happy fencing!