Deciding on a long-life fencing material

Composite vs Timber Fencing

Composite fencing follows the same logic as composite decking: pay more once, stop paying in maintenance. Whether that maths works depends on how long you plan to stay and how exposed the boundary is.

There are also practical differences in how the two are installed.

Composite Decking and Fencing work by Gardenscape in Essex

Maintenance and appearance

Timber needs treating to stay looking good, and untreated fences silver and eventually rot. Colour is easy to change with stain.

Composite is washed rather than treated and holds a consistent colour, though the palette is limited to what the manufacturer offers.

Structure and wind

Composite systems use aluminium-reinforced or slotted posts and interlocking boards, forming a rigid, solid barrier. That is strong, but it is also a solid sail — post foundations must be sized properly, particularly in exposed coastal gardens.

Timber closeboard can be built with gaps to let wind through.

Cost and repairs

Composite typically costs meaningfully more per metre installed. Individual boards slide out for replacement, which is neat, but colour-matching an older run can be an issue if the range changes.

Timber components are cheap and universally available.

Frequently asked questions

Does composite fencing fade?

There is initial weathering; quality systems then hold colour well.

Can composite boards go into concrete posts?

Only with the manufacturer's compatible post system — mixing systems is where installations fail.

How long does composite fencing last?

Leading systems carry long warranties, typically far exceeding treated softwood.

Want a fence you never treat?

We install composite fencing systems with matching gates.

Get a composite quote Call 07535 661664