The pressure is on to deliver sustainably built, high quality new housing, which means that all building materials and products need to be scrutinised in the specification process to understand their potential to make a positive difference. Here, John Abernethie, Founder and Chairman at Birkdale talks fencing – and why modern alternatives can deliver performance and installation benefits, as well as aesthetic value.
Fence posts
Arguably, the most popular materials for fence posts are still concrete and timber. Unfortunately, although both solutions have their individual strengths, they both also have several significant drawbacks. Timber is often the preferred solution for entire fence systems due to its natural aesthetic. However, the material is prone to rotting and warping over time when exposed to moisture. This can lead to the entire fence structure weakening and becoming vulnerable to wind, making it more likely to need replacing in the future.
Although concrete is undoubtably a more durable and stronger solution, it is still prone to cracking and chipping. This allows water ingress, which will eventually lead to the fence post failing. Additionally, the product is bulky, heavy and difficult to install, requiring at least two workers onsite, driving up labour costs and increasing chances of injury due to the weight of the concrete. Finally, it offers limited aesthetic value, which may affect the overall look of the property and its garden.
The good news is that modern fencing solutions are available that deliver all the benefits of timber and concrete with none of the drawbacks. For example, galvanised steel fence post options are designed to offer a durable and stylish solution that can be used with virtually any kind of fence panel. Unlike traditional options, steel posts are available in a selection of colours including Anthracite Grey, Olive Grey, Sepia Brown, Galvanised Steel and Black allowing prospective buyers more freedom when it comes to selecting what they want.
When using galvanised steel, housebuilders can also rest assured that they are not compromising in terms of strength. Cut and cold rolled through specifically made dyes to create a unique H-section profile, the material can achieve superior performance and provide additional corrosion protection when powder coated, offering a fit and forget solution. The product is also tested to withstand high wind speeds and requires no ongoing treatment or maintenance once installed – keeping developments looking smart longer-term.
Finally, galvanised steel offers ease of installation as it is 80% lighter than concrete. This makes the posts very easy to carry, allowing them to be transported to site in one van load, and contributes to a quicker installation. Their light weight also minimises the risk of injury for installers – improving health and safety on site.
Fence panels
Traditionally, timber panels have always been preferred, however they carry the same drawbacks as timber posts. Composite panels offer the ideal alternative as they are durable, hardwearing and can be shaped and textured to emulate the desired finish of timber. Furthermore, they are resistant to UV rays, insects and mould, meaning that they will retain their appearance long-term without the need for maintenance, with an impressive lifespan of up to 30 years.
To help improve the eco-credentials of a development, it is advisable to choose panels made from recycled materials or material by-products, such as those available from the DuraPost® composite panel range. These are made from either a mixture of virgin and recycled high-density polypropylene (HDPE) with rice husks (a natural bi-product from the rice industry), or wood-plastic composite (WPC). Finally, composite panels are available in a wide range of colours too, providing design flexibility and the chance to coordinate the fence with other exterior elements of the development.
Fencing solutions can play a key role in establishing an attractive aesthetic for a development but modern systems can also be installed quickly, safely and once in-situ will contribute positively to a high-quality build for the long-term, that helps to lower environmental impact. Ticking every possible box – it really is worthwhile re-thinking those traditional options.
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More information about the Birkdale’s DuraPost range
