The choice depends on your priorities and budget. Treated timber offers natural appearance and costs £45-75 per metre, lasting 15-20 years with proper maintenance. It suits traditional country settings and provides good privacy.

Metal sections (steel or aluminium) are more durable, requiring minimal maintenance and lasting 25-30 years. They cost £80-120 per metre but withstand harsh weather better. Composite materials combine wood aesthetics with plastic durability, priced at £70-95 per metre with 20-25 year lifespan.

For rural properties, we often recommend pressure-treated timber for cost-effectiveness or powder-coated steel for durability. Each material has specific installation requirements which we handle professionally.

In most cases, fencing up to 2 metres high doesn't require planning permission under permitted development rights. However, if your fence borders a highway or public footpath, the limit is 1 metre. Properties in conservation areas or listed buildings have stricter regulations.

Gates typically follow the same rules as fencing. If you're installing automated gates, electrical work must comply with building regulations. We recommend checking with your local planning authority before starting work, especially for properties with special designations.

Our team can advise on local requirements during the consultation. We've worked across various councils in the Greater London area and surrounding counties, so we're familiar with regional variations in regulations.

Wooden fences need annual treatment with preservative or stain to prevent rot and weather damage. Check posts annually for stability and replace damaged panels promptly. Clean debris from panel bases to prevent moisture accumulation.

Metal fencing requires less attention. Inspect annually for rust spots, treating them immediately with rust converter and touch-up paint. Lubricate gate hinges twice yearly and check automated gate mechanisms quarterly.

General maintenance includes trimming vegetation away from fence lines, checking post stability after storms, and ensuring drainage around posts remains clear. We offer annual maintenance contracts covering inspection, treatment, and minor repairs. Proper maintenance extends fence lifespan significantly and prevents costly replacements.

Yes, we regularly work with challenging terrain at country properties. For slopes, we use two main approaches: stepped fencing where panels follow the slope in horizontal steps, or raked fencing where panels follow the ground contour at an angle.

Stepped installation works well for steeper slopes and maintains panel integrity. Raked installation suits gentler gradients and provides a smoother appearance. The choice depends on slope angle, aesthetic preferences, and budget.

Uneven ground may require additional groundwork such as levelling or building up low areas. Posts need secure anchoring in varied soil conditions, sometimes requiring deeper foundations or concrete collars. During our site survey, we assess terrain challenges and recommend the most suitable approach. Our 12-person installation team has experience with diverse ground conditions across rural properties in the Home Counties.