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Frequently Asked Questions on Fencing

Frequently Asked Questions on Fencing

If you have any questions about your order, what type of products to select or which products are best suited together, then you can always see if your question has already been answered on our FAQ page.

We also have a team of fencing experts who are always on hand to answer any questions you may have. For more information, contact us directly or visit our FAQ page now.

Split into 5 topics covering Ordering, Delivery, Product, Installation & Trade, we have collected together the most common questions our sales team receive.

Frequently Asked Questions on Fencing

If you cannot find the answer to your query, please get in touch with us and one of our dedicated team members will be more than happy to help.

We are always delighted to hear from our customers and look forward to helping you out with any fencing enquiries you may have. Please don’t hesitate to contact us today!

 

 

 

 

Pressure-treated timber for long term protection

Pressure-treated timber provides long term protection against fungal decay, rot and insect attack but does not prevent weathering and corrosion.

You will see an option on many of our fencing products, for example, to select Pressure Treated timber. This is a timber that has been treated in a vacuum with the latest generation TANALITH wood preservative. This renowned preservative gives a proven, outstanding performance, particularly for timbers intended for use in wet conditions.

The process involves placing the timber into a treatment vessel using a vacuum & hydraulic pressure to force the TANALITH preservative deep into the structure of the timber. The resulting timber such as garden fence panels or timber fence posts often has performance warranties of up to 15 years.

pressure treated timber

Please see the pressure treatment video below;

Pressure-treated timber with TANALITH can be used with confidence in both above-ground and in-ground situations including construction, fencing, landscaping and engineering applications. When working with pressure-treated wood, we always suggest you wear gloves, eye protection and a dust mask when handling the wood. Also because of the preservatives in pressure-treated wood, it should never be burned.

We also supply HC4/UC4 certificated timber, which is ideal for wooden fence posts and wooden gravel boards as UC4 timber is certified for ground contact. This provides additional protection against rot, decay and insect attack for longer-lasting fences.

HC4 In-ground treated timber

Challenge Fencing have an extensive range of pressure-treated fence panels, fence posts and gravel boards available in the most popular sizes.

The treated timber is often light green in colour and is well suited to environmentally sensitive applications.


Challenge Fencing aim to offer the very best quality fencing & timber garden landscaping products that last longer and save you money in the long run.

 

Post-Mix concrete – the easiest way to install fence posts

How to use Post-Mix concrete to secure timber fence posts or concrete fence posts.

Once you have acquired the materials and tools necessary to install your fence posts, it is important to ensure that they are securely fixed in place. Post-mix concrete is a popular choice for fixing fence posts because of its ease of use and strength. Here are some steps you can take when using post-mix concrete:

1. Dig a hole for your fence post that is at least two feet deep and 12 inches wide, making sure to remove any large rocks or roots from the soil.

2. Add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the hole to ensure drainage and fill it up about halfway with water.

3. Put on protective gloves and a face mask before adding the Post-Mix concrete to the water, stirring with a trowel or shovel until it’s completely mixed.

4. Place the fence post in the hole, making sure it is level and secure.

Post-Mix Concrete

5. Pour the remaining Post-Mix concrete around the base of the post and use a trowel or shovel to spread it evenly around the edges. We would recommend leaving the Post-Mix slightly above ground and domed away from the fence post to help with drainage.

6. We would recommend a minimum of 1.5 x 20kg bag per fence post.

7. Post-Mix is fast drying so make sure your posts are set correctly within 20 minutes or so. Leave the concrete to set for at least 4 hours before adding any stress to the fence post.

8. Is Post Mix Concrete expensive? No, Post-Mix concrete is relatively inexpensive although more expensive than mixing concrete by hand. It is much more convenient and easy to use. Any unused dry Post-Mix can be stored in their water-proof bags.

9. Is Post Mix Concrete safe to use? Yes, Post-Mix concrete is a non-hazardous and non-toxic material and can be safely used around animals, pets or children. However, it’s important to remember that it is a cementitious product so please take care when handling the material.

10. Are there any maintenance requirements for the post-mix concrete? In order to ensure that your fence posts are secure and safe, we recommend checking the integrity of your post-mix concrete installation every 6 months. This can easily be done by doing a visual inspection of the post and ensuring it is still securely embedded in the soil. Additionally, you may want to check the condition of your fence posts from time to time for any signs of corrosion, wear or damage. Prompt action should be taken to address any issues to maintain the structural integrity of your fence posts.

We also recommend that you reapply a waterproofing sealant to your post-mix concrete every few years as part of your maintenance routine. This will help protect against moisture damage and will help keep your fence posts looking great for years to come. If you find any cracks or holes in the concrete, you should take action to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage and deterioration. Taking these steps will ensure your fence remains strong and secure for years to come!

If you have any questions about how to maintain your fence posts or need recommendations on which sealant to use, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are more than happy to help!

For more tips and advice on maintaining your fence posts, please check out our other blog posts or give us a call at Challenge Fencing today. We are always here to answer any questions you may have!

Note: Post mix is a material made from cement, aggregate, and other ingredients that can be used to quickly set a fence post

 

 

 

Stake and Rail fencing – a Complete Guide

Stake and Rail fencing is a simple yet effective way to enclose large areas of land, whilst providing an attractive boundary. It is particularly popular in the countryside due to its rustic look, but can also be used in urban settings for a more contemporary style. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about this traditional type of fencing.

When it comes to installing your fence, it’s best to hire a professional as they will know the correct way to install the posts and rails. However, it is a project that any competent DIY’er can achieve.  The posts must be dug into the ground and supported with concrete, particularly if the soil/ground is soft.  Post-Mix is an ideal solution for fence posts. Just pour the dry mix around the fence post, add water and follow the on-pack instructions. We usually recommend a 1.5 x 20kg bag for a heavy-duty fence post.

If you’re looking to achieve a more attractive finish, then you may want to consider pressure-treated timber for a longer-lasting structure. For fence posts, we prefer to sell UC4-treated timber as it offers a 15-year warranty against rot, decay and insect attack and is classified for use in-ground.

Stake and rail HC4 In-ground treated timber

Installing the horizontal rails is the next step in creating your fence. It’s important to use galvanised nails or screws so that they don’t rust after a while. The rails should be firmly attached to the posts with no gaps between them for a secure finish.

When it comes to the aesthetics of stake and rail fencing, there is plenty of room for creativity. For example, by adding additional rails or capping the posts to give a more decorative finish. Check out our range of accessories to liven up your fence and make it stand out from the rest.

There are also many choices of styles such as Chesnut rails & posts which give a ‘ranch style’ or Machined half-round rails for a smoother, neat finish. Whatever style you choose, make sure it suits the surrounding landscape and complements your property.

Finally, you may want to consider using a preservative on your fencing. A good quality wood preservative will help protect against weathering and add a protective barrier against fungal attack. It should be applied to all visible faces of the fencing, including around joints.

Happy fencing! And don’t forget that at Challenge Fencing, we’re here to help you with any questions or advice you may need. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

 

Preparing for the Colder Months

As Summer turns to Autumn, the weather gets a bit colder, a bit wetter… let’s be honest, a bit worse!

With this risk on the cards of more rain and storms, what can you do to prepare for Autumn/Winter?

Keep Your Tools Fighting Fit

It’s not easy keeping your shed in tip-top shape, let alone all of the tools it might house.

Spade Digging Mud

Luckily for you, it’s really easy to solve. Rust that forms after water damage can cause long-term problems if not looked at properly so a quick hose down to remove any mud and a wipe-over with an oily cloth will help to combat this.

Avoid keeping certain liquids in your shed

Certain paints and sprays can freeze throughout the Autumn/Winter, often permanently changing their consistency.

Roller painting with blue paint

If your shed isn’t properly insulated,  it is best to keep these liquids in your home or garage.

Store your electrical items above floor level

Should your shed ever suffer water damage, any electrical items that were left on the floor may be permanently damaged. One of the best solutions to this is as simple as keeping your tools in air-tight boxes above floor level.

Organised Shed Shelving

This will help protect them for years to come.

Regular checks and inventory

Spring cleaning in Autumn? Why not?

You can maximise your shed space by having a clear-out. Take an inventory of all of your tools and throw out anything you don’t use. Be ruthless – do you really need five different rakes?

Checklist

Once you have a clear shed, it’s time to prepare your garden for Autumn and Winter. Consider tasks such as planting bulbs, raking any dead leaves, cleaning out gutters and checking fences for weak points. It’s also important to trim any long branches that could be damaged or fall down in the wind. If you plan ahead, it will save a lot of effort later down the line.

Invest in weatherproofing

Autumn and Winter can be a time of heavy rain, snow and strong winds. It’s important to make sure your fence or deck is well-protected from the elements. Consider investing in a Wood Protective treatment. This will help keep your fence or deck looking great for longer and also help protect it from water damage. Plus, if you’re planning to stay outside in the garden a lot during the colder months, make sure you have adequate shelter to keep yourself, family and friends dry and warm.

Finally, don’t forget to clear out any debris or leaves that might have accumulated over the Summer. This will help prevent any clogging or blockages, which can lead to water damage. Taking these steps will ensure your fence or deck is in tip-top condition to see you through till Spring arrives again!

 

 

The colder months can be a difficult time for garden furniture too. Consider treating your outdoor furniture with a Wood Protective treatment

 

 

Garden Decking – The Perfect Solution for Your Outdoor Living Space

Spending time outdoors is one of life’s greatest pleasures. It’s good for the mind, body, and soul. So, if you’re lucky enough to have a garden, why not transform it into a perfect outdoor living space? One way to do this is by adding garden decking which offers a great space to relax, entertain, and eat. It’s perfect for hosting BBQ parties and outdoor gatherings. In this blog, we’ll explore why garden decking is a great solution for outdoor living.

1. Increase Your Living Space

Garden decking is a great way to increase your living space and enjoy your garden area. It can provide an excellent area to entertain guests, spend quality time with your loved ones, and relax in a comfortable outdoor space.

2. Enhance the Look and Feel of Your Garden

A deck can transform your garden area by improving its look and enhancing its functionality. It adds a modern and stylish touch to your garden, creating a space you can be proud of.

3. Low Maintenance

One of the great benefits of a deck is that it’s low maintenance. Unlike other outdoor options, it requires minimal upkeep. With regular cleaning and treatments, your decking can last for years without losing its beauty.

4. Versatility

Decking is incredibly versatile and can be designed to suit your individual needs. Whether you want to create a dining area, a seating area, or a garden bar, garden decking can accommodate your vision.

5. Increases Property Value

Finally, garden decking can also add value to your property. A well-designed decking area can add an attractive feature to your garden, increasing the price of your property if you ever decide to sell.

Conclusion:

In summary, garden decking provides a perfect solution for outdoor living. It’s versatile, low maintenance, enhances the look and feel of your garden, and provides you with a valuable living space that can add to your home’s value. So if you’re looking to create an outdoor living space that perfectly suits your needs, consider adding a garden decking to your outdoor space. With the right design and planning, you can transform your garden space into a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis.

Special Offer

We are now offering 54% off your next garden decking project. Our 4.8m double-sided Winchester decking boards are now just £18.03 each including VAT ex delivery whilst stocks last.

Buy online at challengefencing.com or get in touch with us today and let’s make your outdoor living dreams come true.

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Use Palisade Picket Fencing in Your Garden

Garden picket fence

If you’re looking to add a touch of charm and personality to your garden, adding picket fencing (sometimes called a Palisade fence) is a great way to do it. Installing one yourself may seem intimidating but don’t worry – this guide will provide everything you need to know about putting up your own palisade fence.

What You’ll Need

You don’t need many tools or materials to install picket fencing, but there are some basics you will need in order to complete the job. Start by gathering:

  • Wooden posts, preferably ensure these are HC4-treated posts which offer the highest standards of protection against rot and decay for in-ground use, back rails and pickets (choose pressure-treated wood for projects that may be exposed to high levels of moisture). You will find all the components within our Palisade fencing kit & Timber fence posts
  • Hammer
  • Posthole digger, spade or auger to create holes for the posts

Fence post digger

  • Tape measure, spirit level & string
  • Nails, screws, brackets and other fittings

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your Fence:

  1. Work out how much fencing you need by measuring the length that needs to be covered. You will also need to consider any additional sections of the fence, such as a matching palisade gate.
  2. You will need to space out the posts relative to the height, type and weight of your fencing and other factors (such as wind exposure). Generally, for a 0.9m (3ft) to 1.8m (6ft) high fence you should use one post every 1.8m (6ft). Mark out the positions on the ground before digging.
  3. Now you can dig the holes for your posts. Ensure that these are deep enough to provide a secure footing and stable base for your fence, around 600mm (2ft) is usually sufficient. You may need to backfill with concrete or stones to achieve the desired height of your fence if it is too low in certain places.
  4. Fit your first post into the ground and check that it is level using a spirit level or string. Concrete Post-Mix is an ideal way to secure your wooden fence posts. Usually, 1.5 x 20kg bag is sufficient for 1 fence post. Just add water to the dry Post-Mix in the ratio shown on the bag & follow the instructions. You can then fit the remaining posts in the same way.
  5. Connect the horizontal rails to your posts using nails or screws. Ensure these are positioned at the right height for fitting your pickets when you come to assemble them. For example one rail at the bottom of the picket & one at the top of the picket.
  6. To complete the fence you will need to attach your pickets to the rails using nails or screws. Make sure these are spaced out evenly for a neat and tidy finish to your fence.
  7. Alternatively, you can use our 1.8m (6ft) wide x 0.91m (3ft) high pre-made Palisade (Picket) fence panels in either Round Top or Pointed Top styles.
  8. Finally, you can fit any additional details such as post caps or gates if required before letting the Post-Mix set fully overnight.
  9. With the right preparation, picket fencing makes a great addition to any garden and will look beautiful for years to come. To make your fence even more special, you can paint or stain it in a variety of different colours.
  10. Maintaining your picket fence doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With regular checks for rots or damages, it’s easy to ensure your fence is in top condition and ready to stand the test of time. Make sure you check the nails and screws periodically to make sure they are secure and well-maintained. With proper care and maintenance, your picket fence will look stunning in any garden setting for years to come!

 

Softwood fencing – a great choice for the environment

Softwood fencing & garden products are a great choice for the environment.

When forests are harvested, there is little environmental impact, except for the effect of transport, etc. Trees take most carbon dioxide from the atmosphere when they are young, and some old trees actually emit methane that is a powerful greenhouse gas. If the trees are harvested, and the timber is used in a structure, the carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere and not returned (as it would be, if the timber was burnt or decayed naturally). The impact of softwood use on the environment and  the greenhouse effect is therefore beneficial.

Many of our suppliers use slow grown joinery grade Scandinavian redwood that is certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) . Softwood has long be held as the definition of “renewable” or “sustainable” making it the material of choice for consumers for many varied projects and uses, such as softwood fencing.

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) has a set of criteria and principles for sustainable forest management, these include forest production chains of custody which are applied internationally against individual businesses and subject to state forestry third party audits.

PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) accredits national forest certification schemes to its standards, with associated chain of custody systems, for which companies must also undergo independent auditing.

Between them, FSC and PEFC certification cover an area approaching 500 million hectares, or 11% of the total global forest areas and this continues to expand. This divides as 196 million hectares under the FSC scheme, 300 million hectares under the PEFC scheme, with the former having issued 36,000 product chain of custody certificates, the latter 20,000.

These schemes are designed to halt deforestation and forest degradation, support forest growth, promote ecosystem protection and underpin the social and economic benefits of sustainable forestry. Their key focus is tropical regions, but environmental certification has developed most rapidly in Europe, principally due to its existing high forest management standards. Today a quarter of global certified forest area is in Western Europe. The country with the highest proportion of forest certified is Finland, with 81% followed by Sweden at slightly over 60%. The coverage tends to be lower in southern countries, with Portugal and Spain at 12% and Italy 9%. The schemes’ insistence on third-party audited chain-of-custody certification ensures that end products can be tracked back to the certified forest where they originated and can be kept separate from non-certified material along the supply chain.


Challenge Fencing seek out suppliers that hold either FSC and/or PEFC chain of custody, so you can buy products that are sustainable and are making a positive contribution to the well being of the planet.

 

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