Walking into a timber yard or browsing online can be overwhelming. You’re hit with terms like "featheredge," "lap panel," "composite," and "picket," and they all look slightly different. But which one is actually right for your garden?
At Joe's Fencing, we believe the "best" fence depends entirely on what you need it to do. Are you trying to block out a nosy neighbour? Keep a dog secure? Or just mark a boundary without blocking the light?
Here is our no-nonsense guide to the most common fence types we install across Bristol, ranked by what they do best.
1. The All-Rounder: Featheredge (Closeboard) Fencing
This is, without a doubt, our most requested fence in Bristol. If you drive around Bedminster or Henleaze, you will see this everywhere.
- Best For: Privacy, security, and durability.
- The Pros: It is built from vertical boards that overlap, creating a solid wall without gaps. It’s incredibly strong against the wind (vital for our weather) and creates a clean, uniform look.
- The Verdict: If you want a fence that you can install and forget about for 15+ years, this is the one. Pair it with concrete posts for the ultimate lifespan.
2. The Budget-Friendly Choice: Overlap (Lap) Panels
These are the horizontal panels you see in most garden centres. They are the traditional "British garden fence."
- Best For: Tight budgets and quick fixes.
- The Pros: They are significantly cheaper than featheredge. If you have a large boundary to cover and money is tight, this is the most cost-effective way to get privacy instantly.
- The Cons: They aren't as strong. In exposed areas or open gardens, they can struggle with high winds.
3. The "Modern & Easy": Composite Fencing
Composite is becoming huge in Bristol, especially for new builds and modern garden renovations.
- Best For: Zero maintenance and modern aesthetics.
- The Pros: It’s made from a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibres. It never rots, never needs painting, and comes in sleek colours like grey or black. It looks fantastic next to a new patio.
- The Cons: It is a premium product with a higher price tag than timber, but you save money on paint and time over the years.
4. The Light-Letter: Trellis & Slatted Fencing
Not everyone wants a 6ft solid wall. Sometimes you want to define a boundary without making your garden feel like a box.
- Best For: Zoning areas, climbing plants, and letting light in.
- The Idea: Use a trellis panel as a "topper" on a solid fence to add height without blocking the sun. Or, use slatted panels (Venetian style) to create a contemporary screen that filters light beautifully.
5. The Kerb Appeal: Picket Fencing
Ideally suited for front gardens in areas like Clifton or Redland where you want to mark your property line without hiding your house.
- Best For: Front gardens, keeping pets in, and cottage-style looks.
- The Pros: It’s decorative and welcoming. It stops dogs running onto the road but doesn't block your view of the street.
Joe’s "Bristol Advice" Summary
If you are still stuck, here is my quick cheat sheet:
- Need total privacy? Go for 6ft Featheredge.
- On a strict budget? Go for Lap Panels (but treat them well!).
- Hate painting? Go for Composite.
- Windy garden? Avoid panels; stick to Featheredge on heavy-duty posts.
Every garden is different. If you aren't sure what will work best with your soil or slope, we are happy to pop round and give you our professional opinion.
Let's find the perfect fence for your home. Contact us today to discuss your options.
Featured Image Image [Montage of four fence types: Featheredge, Composite, Picket, and Trellis, labelled clearly to show the variety available.] Image Alt Text [Comparison of different garden fence types including featheredge and composite fencing] Tags Select Tags Fence Types Garden Design Composite Fencing Featheredge Security Privacy SEO Settings Meta Title What Is the Best Type of Fence for My Garden? Meta Description Featheredge, composite, or picket? We compare the best fence types for Bristol gardens based on privacy, budget, and durability.