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Choosing the right fence panel is more than just blocking off the garden—it's about privacy, curb appeal, and protecting your outdoor space from wind and noise. When you stand in your garden imagining a quiet room under the sky, the fence you pick becomes the frame for that picture. Whether you're replacing a battered panel or planning a full boundary overhaul, the right choice saves time, money, and future headaches.
Lap panels are the workhorses of the fencing world. They typically consist of overlapping horizontal boards nailed to vertical rails, giving a durable and affordable screen. In the UK you'll often see sizes like 6' x 4', 6' x 5'6", and 6' x 6'—they're sturdy, easy to replace, and great for straightforward garden boundaries.
Closeboard panels use vertical boards nailed to horizontal rails, offering a tight, secure finish that’s ideal for high privacy and wind resistance. A popular option for homeowners seeking a classic, robust look, closeboard is perfect if you want a fence that stands tall against the elements and nosy neighbours alike.
If you're after style, decorative panels like Kyoto or slatted contemporary designs bring a modern touch. Slatted panels can be horizontal to create a sleek, contemporary feel or vertical for added height illusion. Decorative panels are often used on patio boundaries or as focal screens in seating areas.
Screen panels such as the Europa Hamburg style add texture and pattern to the garden with a mix of open and closed elements. These are great when you want to soften a boundary without losing airflow. They often come in 6' x 6' sizes, creating a substantial visual statement while still functioning as a protective barrier.
Fence panel sizes are commonly stated in feet, such as 6' x 6', 6' x 5'6", 6' x 4', and 6' x 3'. The first number usually describes the panel height and the second the panel width. For example, a 6' x 6' panel stands six feet tall and spans six feet across. Planning a 30-foot boundary? You'll need five 6' panels plus allowance for posts and gates—always measure twice.
Buy Sheds Direct is a strong choice for homeowners who want a wide selection of timber panels. They stock popular Forest-brand panels including 6' x 6' Kyoto pressure-treated decorative panels, 6' x 3' pressure-treated lap panels, 6' x 5'6" vertical closeboard styles, Europa Hamburg decorative garden screens, and contemporary slatted panels. If you're comparing styles like super lap versus closeboard, this retailer often offers the different looks side-by-side so you can choose based on visual preference and function.
While Expert Electrical is known for electrical items, they can be a handy stop for complementary products that enhance your fence—things like reflective long-range kits for security lighting and sensor-ready gear. If you plan to add lighting, gates with electronic locks, or alarms to your fence, pairing panels from a timber specialist with accessories from an electrical supplier can give your boundary a professional finish.
Big-box chains like B&Q, Wickes, Homebase, Screwfix, and Travis Perkins are staple destinations for fence panels across the UK. They stock a range of pressure-treated timber panels, composite options, gravel boards, posts, and fixings. Jewson and Dunster House are also worth checking for higher-end timber and bespoke sizes. Shopping around helps you compare warranties, delivery options, and bulk-savings—especially if you're fencing a long run.
Start by measuring the total run of the area you want to fence in feet and inches. Subtract space for gates and account for corners. Standard posts are spaced to fit the panel width—so for 6' wide panels you’ll place posts every 6' plus the post thickness. Don’t forget to allow for ground undulation; a sloped site may require stepped panels or angled cuts to keep the topline neat.
For a typical 6' tall fence, post holes are usually dug about 2' deep to give stability—deeper if your soil is soft or exposed to high winds. Use concrete to set posts, ensuring they sit square and plumb. Attach panels to the posts with galvanised fixings to prevent rust. If you're DIY-savvy and comfortable with a post hole digger, spirit level, and a few power tools, you can save on labour. But if your fence line is long, sloped, or includes ornate gates, hiring a pro often pays off with speed and a tidier finish.
Before you start, gather a post hole digger, spirit level, tape measure in feet and inches, galvanised screws or nails, a saw for adjustments, concrete mix, gravel boards, and a rot-resistant post treatment if needed. For timber panels, always use protective gloves and eye protection when cutting. For any metal or composite panels, check whether specialist fixings are required—manufacturers often recommend certain fasteners to maintain warranties.
Pressure-treated timber panels are the most common UK choice because they're treated to resist rot and insect attack. Left untreated, timber may last only a few years in damp conditions; pressure-treated panels typically last much longer, but you'll still want to add a coat of stain or preservative every few years to protect colour and extend life. Using gravel boards keeps bottom edges from contacting soil and moisture, dramatically cutting the chance of rot. Loose panels and rusted fixings are usually an easy DIY fix—replace a single panel rather than redoing the whole run.
Costs vary widely. Basic 6' x 4' lap panels are inexpensive, while decorative 6' x 6' screens, composite slatted panels, or bespoke timber designs cost more. Expect to pay more for higher-quality timber and thicker panels. Composite panels have a higher upfront cost but require almost no maintenance over the years. If you want to save, buy in bulk, look for off-season discounts, or shop clearance lines—many retailers offer end-of-season deals. However, don’t compromise on posts and fixings: cheap posts set poorly are the single biggest reason fences fail.
Think of your fence as a canvas. Add trellis tops for climbing plants, fix pot hangers for instant colour, or paint panels in a muted grey or rich forest green to make your garden pop. Horizontal slats create a modern look, while staggered heights add visual interest. You can also integrate lighting along the top rail or add a low planter at the base for a living border. Small changes like these turn a practical boundary into a design feature.
Timber is traditional, affordable, and easy to work with. Composite panels combine wood fibre and plastic for a low-maintenance alternative that won't warp, rot, or need annual staining. If you want a natural look with minimal upkeep, composite is appealing despite the price. For budget projects, timber pressure-treated panels remain the go-to option and are easily repairable if a single board gets damaged.
Don’t undersize your posts—thin posts will lean and twist under wind pressure. Avoid setting posts directly in soil without concrete or post mix; shallow set posts are a frequent failure point. Another mistake is not allowing for gate swing—leave enough clearance so gates don't scrape paving. Finally, don't forget to check for underground services before digging; you can call for utility maps that show gas, water, and cables.
Choose sustainably sourced timber with FSC certification if environmental impact matters to you. Pressure-treated timber still has chemicals, so plan to use responsibly and avoid burning treated wood. Reclaimed timber panels can be charming and reduce waste, but inspect them carefully for rot and pests before installation.
If your boundary involves retaining walls, steep slopes, or runs longer than a typical garden fence, bringing in a professional installer makes sense. Pros will manage foundations, ensure the fence is structurally sound, and avoid common pitfalls that could cost more down the line. When you want a precision finish or custom designs like curved runs or matching gates, professional craftsmanship is worth the investment.
Choosing fence panels is a mix of practical decisions and design taste. From the practical longevity of pressure-treated 6' x 6' panels to the contemporary appeal of slatted composite screens, there's a solution for every garden. Check retailers like Buy Sheds Direct for a wide timber range, use electrical suppliers for complementary lighting and security accessories, and compare national chains for price and availability. Measure carefully in feet and inches, plan your post depths, and consider maintenance needs before you commit. With the right planning, you’ll end up with a boundary that looks great and stands the test of time.
| Fence Panels | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Boxwood Screening Panel 60x40cm | £ 10,99 | |
| Forest 6' X 3' Pressure Treated Vertical Slatted Garden Screen Panel 1 | £ 62,99 | |
| Forest 6' X 6' Contemporary Grey Slatted Fence Panel 1.8m X 1 | £ 144,99 | |
| Esp Bd1 Reflective Long Range Kit | £ 196,69 |
