With people increasingly investigating ways to be more environmentally friendly in the home and garden, we look at eco fencing and examine what it is and what benefits it has to offer.
What is eco fencing?
Eco fencing, also known as composite fencing, is an alternative fencing system to traditional timber that is manufactured from 75% recycled products. Waste from uPVC (mainly old window frames) from the UK is processed to form pellets which are then blended with wood fibre. Eco fencing is available as eco boards, eco panel tops, eco posts and post caps, as well as eco utility strips and all required fixings.
Features of eco fencing
Choice and versatility
The entire eco fencing post and board system is available in a choice of graphite, natural or walnut colours to suit all styles of garden, and to give a completely coordinated aesthetic. To capitalise on existing fencing accessories, the boards can be used with concrete posts. Existing timber posts can also be used with eco boards but will require a utility strip to be attached, to form a channel for the boards to slot into.
The boards are supplied in two lengths which each measure 300 mm (12”) high. This enables them to be stacked one on top of another to create your preferred fence height.
Stylish design
Eco fencing boards are dual facing, that is they are the same on each side. This means that when used to create a boundary fence between neighbours, the fence will look equally fine on both sides with neither neighbour having to look at the ‘bad’ side of the fence. As the perfect finishing touch to your eco fencing, coordinating panel tops are available in a choice of concave or convex styles, allowing you to create a perfect and unique silhouette. Alternatively, fencing boards can be left as they are, with a simple, rounded, straight edge.
Benefits of eco fencing
Eco fencing is maintenance-free
Unlike traditional timber fencing which requires regular treatment to preserve and protect it, eco fencing needs no protection against rot or decay. Although eco fencing weathers over time, an application of stain will freshen up its appearance, if required.
Eco fencing is lightweight
Each 6-foot eco fencing gravel board weighs just 5kg, compared to 56kg for a comparative concrete board. Eco fencing is therefore easy to move and position and presents none of the health and safety risks associated with timber and concrete systems.
Eco fencing is easy to install
Eco fencing is easy to install as it is lightweight yet strong. It is also practical as the composite material is workable and can be cut to length with just a hand saw. Please note however that our longer length posts (8 feet in length and 9 feet) have a steel insert for reinforcement and this will need to be removed before attempting to saw the post to length.
Eco fencing is durable and strong
The recycled component of the eco fencing makes it durable and long lasting and all our eco fencing supplies come with a 20-year manufacturer’s guarantee against rotting. With a greater tensile strength than concrete posts, eco posts have the flexibility to absorb and dispel the energy and movement from high winds. For posts in excess of 6 feet in height, cement can be poured inside the post to limit excess movement.
Eco fencing is environmentally friendly
The manufacture of eco fencing uses 75% recycled plastic which would otherwise end up in landfill, making it an attractive option for environmentalists. Added to this, the durable nature of eco fencing means it is longer lasting than timber fencing so fewer replacements are needed, leading to the felling of fewer trees.
Buying eco fencing from Witham Timber
The general belief is that eco fencing is a more expensive option than timber. However, when you compare the price of a single tongue and grooved arched top fence panel (£120.62 at time of writing), to that of the equivalent eco fencing boards and curved panel top (£133.00), the difference is negligible. Factor in the saving you will make on the cost of ongoing maintenance and replacement/renewal after time and there is no difference.
If you are considering eco fencing for your garden but aren’t completely sure of exactly what you need, contact us today on 01205 359188 or at sales@withamtimber.co.uk and our staff will be happy to discuss your eco fencing options, and answer any questions you may have.