Fencing, Gate & Decking Comparisons
Head-to-head comparisons for the decisions that come up on almost every quote — written from what we actually see hold up over time.
Composite vs Timber Fencing: Which Should You Choose?
Timber is cheaper to install and easier to repair in sections; composite costs more upfront but needs far less attention over its life.
Read comparison CompareConcrete vs Timber Fence Posts: What Actually Matters
Posts fail before panels almost every time. Concrete posts remove that failure point; timber posts cost less but need proper detailing to compete.
Read comparison CompareCloseboard vs Lap Panel: Built-in-Place or Off-the-Shelf?
Closeboard is assembled on your boundary from individual boards; lap panels arrive as finished units — that single difference explains how each handles odd lengths, part-repairs and labour time.
Read comparison CompareHit-and-Miss vs Solid Fencing: Light, Air & Sightlines
Hit-and-miss's alternating boards let light and air reach a garden that a solid fence would shade and starve of airflow, at the cost of a narrow-angle sightline close up.
Read comparison CompareTongue-and-Groove vs Closeboard Fencing
Tongue-and-groove gives a completely flat, gap-free face on both sides; closeboard is cheaper and easier to repair board by board.
Read comparison ComparePicket vs Low Panel Fencing for Front Gardens
Picket fencing suits period and cottage-style frontages; low solid panels give more definition and a slightly more contemporary line.
Read comparison CompareWooden vs Metal Gates: Which Lasts Better?
Timber gates suit most domestic gardens and match fencing easily; metal gates offer a stronger, lower-maintenance option with a more formal look.
Read comparison CompareSingle vs Double Driveway Gates: What Fits Your Opening?
Single gates suit narrower openings and simpler operation; double gates handle wider driveways and are easier to open manually in tight spots.
Read comparison CompareManual vs Automated Driveway Gates
Manual gates are simpler and cheaper with nothing to go wrong electrically; automation adds real convenience but also an ongoing maintenance commitment.
Read comparison CompareSoftwood vs Hardwood Decking: Cost vs Longevity
Treated softwood costs less and is widely available; hardwood costs more upfront but resists wear and weathering for far longer with less upkeep.
Read comparison CompareComposite vs Timber Decking: Which Is Right for You?
Timber decking costs less initially and looks natural; composite costs more but needs almost no upkeep and resists slipping and splintering better over time.
Read comparison CompareDecking vs Patio: Which Suits Your Garden?
Decking suits sloped or uneven gardens and gives a warmer feel underfoot; patios generally need less maintenance and last longer with virtually no attention.
Read comparison CompareFence Panels vs Trellis Toppers: Adding Height and Privacy
A trellis topper adds height and a little extra privacy within typical planning limits with lower wind load; full solid panels give more privacy but may need permission over 2m.
Read comparison CompareRepair or Replace: When Is a Fence Run Beyond Fixing?
Repairs make sense while failures are isolated; once a third or more of posts or panels have gone, replacement usually costs less over the following few years.
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