Fencing FAQs

A. Every fence material will have its pros and cons (read more: Which fencing material is best?) If you are most concerned about the durability of the fence then opting for a more solid brick or stone fence is most likely your best option. If budget is a major consideration then wire, timber or aluminium is a good choice.

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A. The supporting piece of a fence is called a post. This is the one that is mounted in concrete. Posts can be treated wood or metal. The cross members are called rails. These are attached to the posts. Panels/palings/boards are nailed to the rails. These are the main screening component of a fence and can be placed in vertical or horizontal positions.

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A. A properly installed fence will last a long time if it is appropriately maintained. There are many factors which will effect the life of a fence including, climate, soil conditions and the materials used.

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A. Mass dampens sounds best. Think about brick, concrete or heavy timber fences if you are concerned about noise.

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A. It is wood that has been impregnated with an effective preservative to help wood resist attacks from termites and decay-causing fungi.

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A. Your fence will last longer and weather better if it is painted or stained and sealed. If you like the rustic silver-grey colouring that occurs with natural aging wood then you can leave your fence to weather naturally. Fences should be stained and sealed every three years. Most fence manufacturers recommend choosing a coloured stain as the pigments provide protection from sun damage. Clear sealants need to be reapplied every year.

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A. Not all timber is suitable for fencing. Wood fencing should be made of pressure treated lumber or rot-resistant woods such as cypress, hardwood or pine. The following finishes can be applied to timber to provide protection against weathering.

• Paints - light coloured is preferable
• Clear finishes - frequent reapplication required
• Stains - variety of colours available

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A. The height of a fence will depend on a number of things including the fence location, wind and weather conditions for your area, local council regulations and materials used.

A general guide for timber fences is as follows:

• Ornamental garden (60mm)
• Back yard (1800 - 2000mm)
• Front Yard (750mm - 1500mm)

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A. The setting of fence posts is the most difficult part of installing a fence. How deep will depend on many factors including: the type of material used; and the climate conditions in your area (wind, frost, etc); and soil type (clay, loose earth, sand, etc). Always follow manufacturers' guidelines for setting posts. Using an experienced fence contractor who is familiar with the specifications and standards is recommended to avoid setting posts too shallow or incorrectly.

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A. Vinyl is an environmentally safe material with no toxins to pollute the sky or seep into the ground. Vinyl fencing has a smooth surface and there are no nails, sharp edges or splinters.

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A. Before you start digging:

• Contact your local council to find out if there are any building regulations and permits required for building a fence.
• Check your house plans to determine the location of any underground gas, water, sewage and power lines. Phone the Dial before your dig hotline on 1100 or go to www.dialbeforeyoudig.com.au
• Confirm property boundaries
• Trim any trees and tidy up lawns so that you or your fence contractor will have easy access to the area that needs fencing.
• Make a suitable space for the delivery of materials which is safe for children and pets.

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A. It is up to you whether you decide to build the fence yourself or hire a professional. Some fences are easier to build than others and will require more specialised knowledge. Some timber, metal and vinyl fence styles are available in prefabricated units which make them ideal for the home handyman.

Hiring a qualified contractor however can save you time, and knowing that the job has been done correctly will give you piece of mind as well as a nice fence to admire. See our article on choosing a fence installer or get quotes now from pre-screened fence contractors by completing our short registration form.

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A. You should always check with your local council before you begin building. Even if a permit is not required to build a fence you will still need to comply with local building requirements

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A. Out of courtesy you should inform your neighbour of your plans, even if you plan to pay for the full installation of the fence. If you want your neighbour to contribute to the cost of the fence then they must be notified prior to construction or repair. If you fail to give them a fencing notice or notice to repair, you will not be covered under the Dividing Fences Act and you will be liable for the full cost of the fence

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A. Each state in Australia has a variation of the Dividing Fences Act. The act relates to the construction and repair of fences that divide adjoining land and aims to help you seek a contribution from your neighbour.

For more information read our article on Building a neighbour friendly fence.

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A. Discuss the following:

• The purpose of the fence (privacy, security, pool, etc)
• The exact location
• Design features you are considering (height, style, material)
• Approximate budget
• Timeframe for installation

Read our Choosing a fence installer article for more detailed explanation and tips on what to look out for.

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A. Warranty terms will vary from product to product, contractor to contractor. Material warranties are usually covered by the fence manufacturer. Workmanship is covered by the contractor. Be sure to discuss any warranty concerns with your fence contractor prior to installation and make sure you read the fine print.

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A. Yes. Australian standards exist for fence products including pool fences, gates and balustrades. A copy of Australian Standards may be purchased for download from the Australian Standards Website (www.standards.org.au).

An experienced, well trained fence contractor will be versed in Australian standards for fence products and installation.

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