Fencing Contractors in Whitstable

Plan the boundary before choosing the panels.

Start with what the fence needs to do: screen a seating area, define the garden, contain pets or replace a failing run. Check the view from the patio and house, gate openings and any changes in ground level.

For an exposed Whitstable garden, tell us where the previous fence leaned or failed. The height, openness and support details need to suit the actual setting. An open or semi-solid design may reduce wind pressure, but privacy, ground conditions and fixing details also matter.

Confirm the boundary line and permission for the work before setting out. Photograph the route for materials and old fencing to leave the garden, including narrow passages, steps and planted borders that must remain.

Closeboard, panels and slats: compare the construction.

Closeboard commonly uses overlapping feather edge boards. It can be built along the boundary or installed as ready-made panels. Feather edge and closeboard therefore overlap as descriptions; compare boards, rails, posts and fixings rather than treating them as entirely separate systems.

Panel fencing allows complete sections between posts, provided the dimensions and supports are compatible. If you are replacing one section, photograph both the panel and the posts so their condition can be assessed.

Slatted fencing gives a different balance of screening and openness. Gaps, orientation and viewing angle affect how private it feels. Discuss the sightline from neighbouring spaces and the seating area before deciding from a photograph alone.

Posts, gravel boards and changes in level.

The supports are part of the fence specification. Existing posts need to be sound, stable and suitable for the replacement sections if they are to stay. Timber and concrete posts differ in appearance and compatibility with the proposed fence.

Gravel boards can separate main timber sections from the soil where the construction allows. Include them, along with any trellis, when agreeing the overall height.

For a sloping boundary, discuss whether sections step or follow the ground. Check the appearance from both sides and any gaps at the base, particularly where you need to contain pets. Avoid assuming every boundary can use the same panel size or post detail.

Repair a section or replace the whole run?

A damaged panel or rail may be repairable while sound sections remain. A leaning or rotten post needs attention as well as the visible boards. Where several supports have failed, a wider replacement may be more appropriate.

Send a view along the complete fence and close-ups of damaged supports, fixings and board ends. Those details help establish what needs inspection. Keep clear of unstable sections while arranging an assessment.

How much should you pay for fencing installation?

The complete price in Whitstable depends on length, height, construction and working conditions. Posts, gravel boards, corners, gates, difficult ground and restricted access all affect the scope. Removal and disposal of old fencing should also be identified.

Compare written installation quotes covering:

• The measured run, finished height and fence style.
• Removal, post extraction and waste disposal.
• Posts, supports, panels or boards, rails and fixings.
• Gravel boards, corners, gate details and finishing.
• Labour, VAT treatment, exclusions and provisional items.

A panel price or fencer’s day rate does not establish the cost of the completed boundary. Include photographs and approximate measurements when you request a quote.

What does the 2 metre fence rule mean?

In England, the usual planning height limits are 1 metre next to a highway used by vehicles, including its footpath, and 2 metres elsewhere, measured from ground level. The guidance also allows certain work to an existing fence above those limits where its height is not increased.

Those height allowances depend on other conditions: listed buildings and their boundaries, Article 4 directions and planning conditions can affect permission. Taking down fencing in a conservation area can also need permission.

A new 7ft fence is about 2.13 metres, above the usual 2 metre limit. Check the total height, including gravel boards and trellis, against the Planning Portal fencing guidance and confirm requirements for your property with Canterbury City Council before work begins.

Agree the fitting and care arrangements.

1. Confirm the line. Identify the boundary, retained features, gates and working access.
2. Specify the fence. Agree height, construction, supports and details for changing levels.
3. Set out preparation. Confirm removal, disposal and any additional ground work.
4. Fit and finish. Install the agreed supports and sections, checking alignment and fixings.
5. Discuss care. Follow guidance for the supplied timber and treatment, and review any applicable written warranty terms.

Ground and weather conditions affect the programme. Tell us about access restrictions and planting you want protected, and agree how the garden will remain accessible during the work.

Questions about fencing in Whitstable

Plan your fencing with the wider garden.

Explore our landscaping services in Whitstable or fencing services across Kent. For a particular commercial or security boundary requirement, send the details so we can confirm whether the work is suitable.