GETTING THE LOWDOWN ON COMPOSITE FENCING
Here, we speak to John Abernethie, Founder and Chairman of Birkdale, about composite fencing and why you should consider it as an option for projects that prioritise a clean and modern finish.
Can you start by telling us what composite fencing is?
Composite fencing is a modern fencing solution made from a mixture of materials, such as recycled plastics and natural fibres that bind the panels together. At Birkdale, we use recycled HDPE (high density polyethylene) and rice husks, a natural biproduct from rice production, to manufacture our DuraPost URBAN® panels. These can then be coloured to create a range of different shades so that you can get the right look and finish for every project you work on. Like any other type of fence panel, composite fencing is installed with fence posts. However, unlike traditional timber panels they do not need to be treated to protect them against the worst of the weather.
From a design perspective, what are the benefits of composite fencing?
Well, because composite panels are more durable, they provide a consistent aesthetic year in, year out. This is thanks to UV stabilisation, and the addition of elements like a mould inhibitor, which we use on our DuraPost URBAN® panels. Plus, unlike timber, composite fencing panels do not rot. Composite also has the advantage of uniformity. Because we manufacture the panels, we can control exactly how they look. This means you won’t get knots in the middle of the panel or areas where the stain takes better than others. Our DuraPost URBAN® panels have a deep grain timber finish that provides a pleasing natural aesthetic with none of the usual drawbacks. Aesthetically, composite provides a very clean finish that really complements modern garden design. When paired with discreet, matching or contrasting steel fence posts, a solution can be created that helps to enhance the design vision of a garden or outdoor space.
How does the installation differ from traditional timber?
The principal of installing a composite panel is similar to timber, but it is more straightforward because the panel comes in multiple pieces, which makes them less cumbersome to fit.
DuraPost URBAN® fencing panels can be fitted vertically or horizontally but both installation processes start by fitting the bottom rail. The tongue and groove composite boards are then stacked to secure them in place until the panel is completed. The top rail is then screwed into place, in order to hold the pieces securely together. The process is quick and simple and made easier still when DuraPost® fence posts, which come with pre-drilled holes and colour matched screws, are used.
What should fencers and landscapers look out for in composite fencing?
As with most things, quality is key. Installers should look for fence panels that are made using high quality materials and manufactured to the highest standard. For example, each of Birkdale’s DuraPost URBAN® composite fence panels come with two powder-coated, galvanised steel rails that provide horizontal bracing and structure. These have a double layer of protection to ensure they will not rust or corrode under extreme weather conditions. This in-built quality ensures that the panel will not be compromised and will continue to look and perform as intended for up to 15 years.
To find out more about DuraPost URBAN® fencing panels, go to www.birkdalesales.com/collections/urban-composite-fence-panels
