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If you’re thinking about updating your garden or defining your property line, fence pickets are one of the most versatile and cost-effective choices out there. They’re not just about keeping things in or out—picket fences add personality, boost kerb appeal, and can be the finishing touch that makes a home look polished. In this guide you’ll find everything from materials and sizes to installation tips and where to hunt down the best fence picket deals in the UK.
At its simplest, a picket fence is made up of evenly spaced vertical boards—called pickets—attached to horizontal rails and supported by posts. It’s the classic “white picket” look, but modern pickets come in a wide range of materials and styles. Choose a picket fence when you want a boundary that’s decorative and welcoming, not purely functional. They’re ideal for front gardens, around patios, or along pathways where visibility is desired.
Picket fences are as much about looks as they are about function. They clearly mark property boundaries, keep small pets and kids safe, and can guide visitors to your front door. Want a low-maintenance alternative to hedges? A picket fence can achieve the same effect while being easier to manage.
Choosing the right material is the first big decision. Each option has trade-offs in terms of appearance, longevity, cost, and maintenance. Below I break down the most popular choices so you can pick what suits your needs and budget.
Wood is the traditional choice—think softwood like pine or hardwood like cedar. Softwoods are cheaper but usually require treatment to resist rot, while cedar or redwood are naturally more durable. Typical picket thickness ranges from 5/8 inch to 1 inch, and standard heights run from 2 ft to 4 ft. Wooden pickets are easy to cut and customize, and they offer a warm, classic look, but they need staining or painting every few years.
Composite pickets mix recycled wood fibres and plastics to give you durability and low maintenance. They won’t warp or rot like wood and are great if you want a wood-look without the upkeep. Composite boards often come in preset heights like 3 ft or 4 ft and can be a bit pricier up front, but they typically last longer with less care.
PVC pickets are virtually maintenance-free: no painting, no staining, and they resist moisture and insects. They’re lightweight and usually come in modular panels for quick installation. A downside is they can look less natural than wood and may expand slightly in heat, so you’ll need to follow manufacturer guidelines for spacing and fastening.
For a modern or more formal look, metal pickets—typically aluminum or wrought iron—offer strength and a slimmer profile. They’re often used for security with decorative tops and usually require a protective powder-coat finish to avoid rust. Metal pickets tend to be more expensive but provide longevity and a sleek aesthetic.
Getting measurements right makes installation smoother and helps you estimate costs accurately. Let’s run through the standard numbers so you can plan like a pro, using imperial units to keep things familiar.
Common picket heights are 2 ft, 3 ft, and 4 ft. Front-yard pickets commonly sit at 3 ft to 4 ft for visibility and charm. Spacing between pickets typically ranges between 2 inches and 4 inches edge-to-edge; a 3-inch gap is a balanced choice—close enough to deter small animals, wide enough to feel open. If you have pets, tighten that spacing to 1.5 inch to 2 inches.
Posts are the backbone of any fence. Standard post sizes are 4 in by 4 in or 4 in by 6 in, and they should be set at least 2 ft into the ground for a standard fence to achieve stability. For taller fences or exposed locations, consider burying posts 2.5 ft to 3 ft deep and using concrete for the base.
Rails are usually 1 in by 4 in or 1 in by 6 in, depending on the look and the weight of the pickets. Picket thickness commonly ranges from 5/8 in to 1 in. Thicker pickets look more substantial and hold up better to heavy winds and impacts, while thinner pickets keep costs down.
Budgeting is easier when you break the job into parts: pickets, rails, posts, screws/bolts, and any finishing like stain or paint. Costs vary by material and quality, but here are ballpark figures to help you plan.
Wooden pickets tend to be the most budget-friendly per board but can require maintenance costs later. Composite and PVC pickets cost more initially—sometimes up to 2 to 3 times the price of untreated softwood—but they reduce long-term maintenance expenses. Metal pickets are typically the most expensive, especially wrought iron, but offer superior longevity and strength.
Don’t forget hardware, gate kits, post concrete, and delivery. If you’re buying in bulk or catching a seasonal sale, you can shave significant amounts off the total. Comparison sites and seasonal offers often highlight bundle deals for pickets and posts together—definitely worth checking before you buy.
Deals pop up regularly—seasonal clearances, bulk discounts, and online promotions. Comparison platforms can be especially useful for spotting the best price on a particular picket profile or brand. Always compare delivery costs and availability since oversized items can carry extra shipping fees.
Late summer and early autumn are often prime times for fencing discounts as retailers clear stock before winter. Black Friday and end-of-season sales can also bring savings. If you don’t need immediate installation, monitor prices for a few weeks to catch a drop.
Installing a picket fence is a doable DIY for a handy homeowner, but the project can be physically demanding and requires careful measuring. If you’re inexperienced or dealing with uneven terrain, a professional might save time and prevent costly mistakes.
Plan to have a post hole digger, spirit level, tape measure, saw, drill, and masonry mix if setting posts in concrete. For a typical 20 ft stretch, you’ll need posts every 6 ft to 8 ft, rails to span between posts, and pickets to cover the panel area. Don’t forget corrosion-resistant screws or nails—stainless or galvanised fasteners will outlast common steel.
Start by marking the line and locating underground services. Dig post holes, set posts plumb in concrete, attach rails, and then fix pickets to the rails—keeping spacing consistent with a spacer block is a helpful trick. Finish by adding caps or a protective sealant if using wood.
How much effort you’ll need to keep your fence looking good depends on the material. Wood needs the most attention; composite and PVC require little more than an annual clean.
For wood, sand and prime any rough spots, then apply a high-quality exterior stain or paint. Reapply every 2 to 4 years depending on exposure. If you prefer a more natural look, a clear water-repellent preservative helps protect against moisture and sun damage.
Composite and PVC can usually be cleaned with a soft brush and soapy water. Avoid harsh pressure washing at close range; a gentle rinse will remove most dirt. For stubborn stains, follow manufacturer recommendations to avoid voiding warranties.
A fence is more than pickets—posts, gates, hinges, and finishing caps all matter. Choosing the right accessories makes your fence durable and cohesive in appearance.
Gate kits streamline installation and are available for single or double gates in matching styles. Look for heavy-duty hinges and latch sets rated for the weight of your gate—especially important for wider openings. Hardware often comes in finishes like brushed nickel or black to match modern aesthetics.
Post caps protect the top of posts from weather and add a finishing touch. Choose from simple flat caps, pointed finials for a Victorian vibe, or solar caps that add subtle night-time illumination. Decorative tops can transform a basic fence into a design feature.
From the traditional white picket to sleek horizontal slats, picket fences can fit many architectural styles. Here are some popular looks to inspire your project.
The classic white picket remains a favorite for front gardens and cottages. Painted wood or white PVC both achieve the look; choose painted wood for authenticity or PVC for very low maintenance.
For a contemporary feel, try horizontal pickets or slim metal spindles. These options create clean lines and pair well with modern landscaping—think concrete planters and minimalist lighting.
If privacy is a concern, use narrower spacing and taller pickets, or install staggered picket panels that overlap to block sightlines while maintaining the picket aesthetic.
Choosing the right fence pickets boils down to balancing budget, aesthetics, and maintenance. Decide whether you want a short-term cost saving or a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution, then pick materials and accessories that match that goal. Use comparison tools to weigh prices and features across retailers, and always measure twice before you cut once.
There’s no single “best” picket—only the best picket for your home, style, and lifestyle. With the right planning and a little elbow grease or a trusted installer, your new picket fence can boost your home’s appeal and function for years to come.
Fence pickets are a timeless choice that blend charm with practicality. Whether you opt for classic wood, modern composite, low-maintenance PVC, or durable metal, there’s a picket solution to fit your needs. Measure carefully, choose quality hardware, and consider seasonal deals or comparison platforms to get the best value. With the right planning and care, your picket fence can be a standout feature that’s both beautiful and functional.
| Fence Pickets | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 19x100x1800mm Softwood Sawn Fence Slat Brown Treated | £ 2,59 | |
| 19x150x1200mm Softwood Sawn Fence Slat Brown Treated | £ 2,59 | |
| Bradfords Treated Featheredge Board 22 X 150 X 3600mm Green | £ 10,38 | |
| Non Branded Treated Featheredge Board Timber 22mm X 150mm X 3600mm - Green Logs | £ 10,38 | |
| Outsunny Set Of 2 Expanding Garden Fencc - Aluminium Freestanding Foldable Picket Fence | £ 117,99 |
