14 common fencing terminology phrases and what they mean
To make life easy for our customers, we’ve created this handy list of 14 popular fencing terms you’re likely to hear when buying or building your new fence and what they mean. You can refer back to this as and when you need it!
- Post: Vertical element that provides support for the fence.
- Panel: Pre-assembled section of the fence.
- Picket: Pointed fence board that forms the fence panel, often used in decorative or traditional fencing (picket fencing).
- Corner Post: Post placed at the corners of the fence, often larger and sturdier to handle directional changes.
- End Post: The terminal post at the end of the fence line, often used to attach gates.
- Fence Post Cap: Decorative and protective cap placed on top of fence posts to prevent water damage.
- Gravel Board: A board placed at the bottom of the fence to prevent soil contact with the panels, reducing rot and damage.
- Base Panel: A robust panel attached at the bottom of a fence line, typically made of concrete. It adds stability, support, and protection to the lower part of the fence.
- Trellis: Decorative, crisscrossed panels often used as a fence topper for added privacy and aesthetic appeal.
- Tongue and Groove: Boards that fit together tightly, with a ‘tongue’ on one board sliding into a ‘groove’ on the next, creating a strong, seamless barrier.
- Bolt Down Post Support (or Bolt Down Fence Post Support): A metal bracket or shoe designed to be bolted onto a concrete base or surface, providing a sturdy foundation for fence posts.
- Drive-in Tool (or Post Driver): A specialised tool used to drive fence posts into the ground, typically made of heavy, solid steel with handles and a cap.
- Pressure-Treated Wood: Wood treated with chemicals to resist rot, decay, and insect damage, commonly used for fence posts and panels.
- Fasteners: Nails, screws, or other hardware used to attach fence components to each other.
There you have it! This is by no means all of the parts or construction terms out there.
Every fence is different, so depending on the parameters of your project, things may vary slightly, but these are the ones you’re most likely to encounter. This handy list will be a great resource to refer back to whenever you need to refresh your memory.
Understanding the different parts of garden fencing, from the gravel boards to tongue and groove fittings and everything in between, will help you create a sturdy and beautiful outdoor space that will last for years! Still, that doesn’t mean you’re out on your own; if you’re ever stuck or have a question, our experts at Welch Fencing are always on hand! Just give us a call on 01772 336 476 or send us an email at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to help!
