Build the full featheredge fence, not just the boards
Featheredge fencing is normally built from several parts working together. The featheredge boards create the face of the fence, but the fence also needs suitable posts, rails, gravel boards, postmix and fixings. This collection keeps the main materials in one place so you can plan the full job before ordering.
Use the calculator first
If you are building a full run rather than buying a few replacement boards, start with the Featheredge Fence Calculator. It helps estimate boards, posts, rails, gravel boards and postmix based on the run length, board size, post spacing and fence height.
What do you need for a featheredge fence?
| Part | What it does |
|---|---|
| Featheredge boards | The overlapping vertical boards that create the closeboard fence face. |
| Fence posts | The upright support for the fence run. Choose the size and length around fence height, exposure and ground conditions. |
| Motorway rails | The horizontal rails that the featheredge boards fix to. |
| Gravel boards | The bottom board that helps lift the featheredge boards away from ground contact. |
| Postmix | Rapid-setting concrete for setting timber fence posts in the ground. |
| Nails or wood screws | Used to fix boards and rails. These are often forgotten when ordering fencing materials. |
Board choice and overlap
Featheredge boards are fitted vertically with each board overlapping the previous one. The overlap helps shed water, improves privacy and creates the traditional closeboard fence look. Board width, overlap and total run length all affect how many boards are needed.
125mm boards are a common choice for traditional closeboard fencing. 150mm boards cover more width per board, so they can reduce the number of boards needed across a run depending on your overlap.
Posts, rails and gravel boards
For a typical timber featheredge fence, posts are set along the run, motorway rails are fixed horizontally, and featheredge boards are fixed vertically to the rails. A gravel board is normally used along the bottom to protect the boards from prolonged contact with the ground.
Post spacing, rail count and post size depend on the fence height, exposure and ground conditions. Taller or more exposed fences usually need stronger support than short sheltered runs.
Do not forget fixings
Fixings are one of the easiest parts to miss. For featheredge boards, many installers use suitable exterior nails such as sherardised annular ringshank nails. Wood screws can also be useful, especially for repairs, rails, small runs and general outdoor timber fixing. Choose fixings suitable for treated timber and outdoor use.
Things to check before ordering
- Fence run: Measure the full run length and allow for corners, returns, gates and awkward sections.
- Fence height: Board length, post length, rail count and gravel board height all affect the finished height.
- Post spacing: Choose realistic bay spacing before working out rails and gravel boards.
- Overlap: More overlap uses more boards but gives a tighter finished fence face.
- Ground conditions: Wet, soft or exposed sites may need larger posts, deeper setting or closer spacing.
- Fixings: Order nails or screws at the same time as the timber so the job is not held up.
- Cut ends: Re-treat freshly cut timber ends where possible after cutting.
Panels and gates
If you do not want to build the fence board by board, ready-made featheredge panels may be quicker. Featheredge gates are useful where you want a matching pedestrian access point.
FAQs
How many featheredge boards do I need?
That depends on the fence length, board width and overlap. Use the Featheredge Fence Calculator for an estimate before ordering.
Do I need rails behind featheredge boards?
Yes. Featheredge boards normally fix to horizontal rails. The rails provide the support behind the boards and tie the fence between the posts.
Do I need gravel boards?
For most garden fencing, gravel boards are strongly recommended because they help keep the featheredge boards away from constant ground moisture.
Should I use nails or screws for featheredge boards?
Many installers use suitable exterior nails, such as sherardised annular ringshank nails. Wood screws can also be useful, especially for repairs, rails and smaller jobs. Use fixings suitable for treated timber and outdoor use.
How much postmix do I need?
It depends on post size, hole size and ground conditions. As a rough guide, many fence posts use around two bags per post, but larger holes, soft ground or bigger posts may need more.