Decorative Fence Panels Buying Guide

Do the following apply to you? If so, you will love our decorative fence panels buying guide:

Decorative fence panels for your varying needs

You want to learn about types of decorative fences to upgrade your fencing
Do you prefer decorative fence panels to plain?
You have a new property that needs a boundary fence
Your fencing is getting an overdue makeover
Your fencing is rotting and needs replacing
You want an aesthetically pleasing look, but are worried about the cost of decorative fencing
You just fancy a change?

The above are excellent reasons to change from plain fencing panels or start afresh with decorative fencing panels instead.

In the world of fence panels, several decorative styles stand out and these generally come under the banner of decorative garden fence panels. Our decorative fence panels buying guide covers all aspects you need to buy decorative fencing for your garden project. We discuss in detail all the decorative fencing styles in all variations including fence panel sizes, dimensions and measurements for the different types of decorative garden fencing.

Step 1: Decorative fence panel sizes

When choosing decorative garden screening size matters. No one wants to waste time and money, so the first fact you need to be sure of is the size of the decorative fence panels you need for your project. Fence panel sizes are standard but there are four different sizes to choose from. Popular sizes are 6’x3’, 6’x4’, 6’x5’ and 6’x6’, these are widely used for decorative fence installation. So, start as you mean to go on – with the correct size decorative fence panels to secure your boundary and add interest to your garden or outside space.

6’x3’ fence panels

Decorative fencing panels in a standard width of 6 feet with a height of 3 feet are a great choice for low-level fencing such as a front garden boundary or a sectioning off areas like bin stores or recycling areas that you may not want on show. Buying the right fence panel size depends on what you need your decorative garden panels for, what purpose they serve and to what extent decoration matters over practicality.

6’x4’ Kyoto decorative fence panel with lattice

6’x4’ fence panels

Decorative fence panels measuring 6’x4’ offer a slightly higher elevation than 6’x3’ fence panels, while offering a combination of security and aesthetics to front garden boundary fences. This fence size offers a versatile fencing solution that is perfect for marking boundaries without obstructing views and creating interest and a focal point in the low part of your back garden or outdoor space.

6’x5’ Contemporary Double Slatted Fence Panel

6’x5’ fence panels

6’x5’ decorative garden fence panels are often considered the optimal height because they offer more security than 3ft or 4ft high fences but do not say “keep out” the way, a 6ft high fence does. At 5ft high you can still look over the fence, but the height of each panel offers decorative fence screening that complements the landscape. Whether you are looking to create a peaceful garden in a busy area or just increase the security of your property then 6’x5’ decorative fence panels are the way to go.

6’x6’ Contemporary Double Slatted Fencing

6’x6’ fence panels

If security and privacy are your goals, then 6ft x 6ft fencing is the ideal size for your garden project. Fence panel sizes are an important first step in placing your garden project. Once you know your aim, and why you are installing new fencing then the rest should be easy. 6'x6’ fence panels are your go-to option for high-security boundaries. Decorative garden panels that are 6ft high and wide are the ultimate deterrent to unwanted visitors, human or animal.

Decorative fence panel measurements

Decorative fence panel measurements are the same as any other fence panel measurement, you do not need to add anything extra for the decoration. The panels are a standard width of 5ft11, it is the height that changes to match your needs. The minimum height is 3ft and the maximum height is 6ft. If you need a little extra height over 6ft, decorative garden trellis panels are a great way to add additional interest and security without contravening planning laws.

Step 2: Decorative fence styles

Decorative fences are a coverall name for a design type that covers specific fence panels that include picket fencing, hit, and miss fencing, slatted fencing, trellis fencing, lattice fencing and tongue and groove fencing as well as others too. ‘Decorative’ is the aesthetic description for the way the fence panels look, and their decorative features. This leads us to why we love decorative fence panels and what they offer to your garden project or landscape scheme. Let us discuss various decorative fence styles in turn below:

1) Hit and miss fencing

Hit and miss fencing is much more attractive than it sounds, in any other context ‘hit and miss’ means not reliably good or successful, however when we talk about hit and miss fencing, the description is completely different. Hit and miss fencing is called this because it refers to the way the boards are alternately fixed on the front and back panels of the fence with an overlap which creates a decorative hit and miss pattern.

Click here to view our hit and miss fencing panels.

2) Lattice fencing

The appeal of lattice fencing is the design, this is a style-led fencing choice that combines a stylish decorative finish with practicality. Lattice work and trellis fencing are a similar design style with the wooden slats running at a cross pattern across the entire panel in a grid pattern structure. Lattice fencing is considered the ultimate climbing frame for your climbing plants.

Click here to view our lattice fencing panels.

3) Picket fencing

Picket fences are synonymous with country cottage style aesthetic. Think Little House on the Prairie meets the Darling Buds of May, and you get the idea. TV dramas aside, a decorative picket fence can be used to contain pets and children without blocking the view. In the UK, picket fencing is popular for front gardens and for creating designated areas for children or pets, effectively sectioning off parts of the garden from the rest of your outdoor space.

Click here to view our picket fencing panels.

4) Slatted fencing

Slatted fences are as described, slatted panels of wood or composite that run either vertically or horizontally. Slatted decorative outdoor fences are used in residential properties to enclose your garden, outside space or patio from your neighbours or passers-by. They are slightly more modern-looking than picket fencing or lattice fencing. Slatted fence panels are an attractive in-between style, not too classic or traditional but just as sturdy at protecting your property as other decorative fencing choices.

Click here to view our slatted fence panels.

5) Trellis fencing

Choosing trellis fencing is a great idea if you want to add space to your garden design. Trellis fence panels allow you to add a vertical aspect to your design. Decorative trellis panels are the perfect choice for small gardens as they allow plants to grow vertically, taking the focal point up, and allowing the garden to appear bigger than it is. Trellis fencing is great for large gardens, to act as decorative screening while maintaining security when used in conjunction with solid fence panels.

Click here to view our decorative garden trellis panels.

6) Tongue and groove fencing

Tongue and groove fencing is revolutionary for security and privacy. No spaces between the planks on tongue and groove fence panels mean no spaces to peek through, and no curious neighbours to take the joy away from your private sanctuary. Tongue and groove fence panels offer much more than security; they look stylish and blend well into garden designs.

Click here to view our tongue and groove fencing panels.

7) Wooden fence with decorative top

A wooden fence with a decorative top combines practicality with aesthetic appeal. It is a popular choice for enhancing the boundary of a property. The type of decorative topping will vary in design, ranging from lattice patterns to intricate scrollwork or elegant curves. These add a distinctive touch that sets it apart from more traditional fencing. These decorative fencing tops not only increase the fence's visual interest but also allow for extra light and air to pass through. This helps to maintain an open and airy feel while still providing seclusion and privacy.

Some examples from our range include:

Dome-shaped top - this fencing is finished off nicely with a dome shape, see the Forest 6'x6' Pressure Treated Decorative Domed Top Fence Panel
Fence top trellis - add a trellis area at the top of the fence for decorative effect. We sell:

Fence panels with a trellis at the top - see: Forest 6'x6' Paloma Decorative Fence Panel (Europa Prague), this wave-shaped trellis is also available in 6'x4', and 6'x5' sizes
Trellis fence topper panels - which you can add to the top of existing fencing. This is available in 6'x1' and 6'x3' sizes

Slatted topper - our Kyoto hit and miss fencing features a slatted top, these are available in 6'x4', 6'x5', and 6'x6' sizes

8) Decorative garden screening

Throughout this entire decorative fence panels buying guide we have focused on decorative fencing, but another option is decorative screening panels. A few examples of the main differences between decorative fence screening and traditional fence panels are:

Design and aesthetics - decorative fence screening tends to feature more elaborate and intricate designs. This is because its primary role is to add a visual element to the garden. Materials such as laser-cut metal, woven branches and patterned composites are popular choices
Flexibility and mobility - decorative garden screening is often more flexible in terms of placement and can be moved or repositioned as needed, depending on the type of screen and its installation
Installation and structure - decorative screening panels can be installed as freestanding elements that are not necessarily connected in a line. Screens might be placed strategically to shield specific areas or for decorative effect
Purpose and functionality - decorative screening is primarily used to create privacy, block unsightly views or divide spaces within a garden. Screens are often used close to living areas or around patios to shield from neighbours or to create intimate spaces

You can of course have both decorative garden screening as well as decorative garden fence panels, listed below are two of our popular decorative screening panels:

Click here to view our decorative garden screening panels.

Step 3: Special fencing circumstances

Everyone needs special fencing to cover the circumstances that occur with modern living. Whether you need decorative outdoor fences that block an unsightly view or run alongside a public right of way, we can help. We have decorative garden screening for windy areas or uneven ground. Our decorative fence panels buying guide covers fencing on concrete solutions and fencing on wall ideas. If you need to combine noise reduction fencing on uneven ground in a windy area, no problem! We have your unique requirements covered.

Noise combating fencing

If you live in a busy area, near a major road, or backing a school or public footpath, noise-combating fencing is your go-to option. Our award-winning panels are made with noise pollution in mind. Advanced noise reduction designed tongue and groove fence panels can cancel noise pollution by up to 30db. Soundproofing with tongue and groove fencing is not only an attractive choice it is also a practical choice that secures your boundaries and redirects the noise away from your home.

Uneven ground fencing

Slopes and sloped gardens do not need to be a problem; they can be managed without compromising your home's security. With decorative wood fence panels specifically designed for uneven ground, you can rest in the knowledge your garden is protected. Steeping your fence panels is the answer to uneven ground. For very uneven ground, fence panels may not offer the best solution. You can use packs of fencing boards to create a bespoke option that you can easily adapt to suit your ground conditions. If you are still not sure about decorative fence installation on uneven ground see our blog post by clicking here.

Fencing for windy areas

Fencing in windy areas or climates that surround the coast, close to rivers, moors or open ground needs specific kinds of decorative outdoor fences. The design of fencing for windy areas suits decorative fencing panels as the design lends itself to open slats. Generally, open slat designs like hit and miss fencing are the most practical for windy locations. Spacing will allow air to flow through the panels rather than push against them.

If you are set on having decorative screening panels that offer privacy, then we recommend using longer slotted fence posts; this way the fence panels can slide into the posts and be securely screwed in place. For more information about fencing for special conditions read our blog post “The best fence panels for windy areas”.

Fence post shoe for fixing fence posts to concrete

Fencing on concrete

Fencing on concrete sounds complicated but you can use the same types of decorative fences and posts as you would for grassed ground. You will, however, require some additional equipment including bolt-down fence post supports or fence post shoes. To secure your fence posts to the concrete you need a shoe, and this is bolted to the ground. Unlike grassy area fence posts which may require longer fence posts when securing to concrete, you do not need extra length before inserting into the ground. For more detailed guidance on installing fencing on concrete read our blog called “How to install a fence post in concrete”.

Fencing on a wall

If you have a brick-built boundary wall and you want to add decorative garden trellis panels to your wall to improve security and aesthetics you can. To add decorative fencing on a wall you can use fence shoes as described above (fencing in concrete). If the garden wall is not thick enough to attach fence shoes, then you can either bolt the fence posts to either side of the wall or into the ground at the base of the wall. If your wall has brick columns, you can consider adding horizontal arris rails between the columns and individual boards rather than fencing panels to complete the look.

Step 4: Decorative fence protection

Decorative fence protection is no different from other fence protection, left untreated a decorative fence is just as likely to rot as a contemporary fence. Luckily there are many things you can do to look after your decorative fencing choice.

The perils of untreated fencing

Untreated fencing is a fencing option that really is not worth having. It is cheaper to buy in the first instance but then costs more over time to keep in good condition. Untreated wood is vulnerable to rot, decay, insect and fungal infestation, while regular maintenance is required for all fencing, untreated fence panels require care from day one.

Dip treated decorative fencing

Decorative fencing that has been dip treated or incurred a dipping has been dunked in wood treatment and left to dry. Dipping decorative wood fence panels is an effective way to ensure your fence panels are up to the job. Decorative fence styles benefit from dipping as the treatment gets into all the nooks and crannies and protects the wood against rot, decay and infestation. Decorative fence panels that have been dip treated or surface treated are a better option for your garden project than untreated fencing.

Pressure treated decorative fencing

Pressure treated decorative fencing is the next step up from dip treated and is the best type of treatment for wooden decorative fencing. In pressure-treated decorative fencing, wood preservative is forced into the fibres under pressure, ensuring thorough and complete treatment. Pressure treatment does not just coat the wood it gets right into every fibre enhancing its ability to fight off rot, decay, pests and fungal infestation. The technical term for pressure treating wooden fence panels is vacuum pressure impregnation. No matter what you call it pressure treated fencing will stand the test of time (with regular maintenance).

Use of gravel boards

When you are designing your decorative fence protection you need to incorporate gravel boards. Gravel boards are usually 150mm high and are used underneath your fence, between the fence and the ground to protect your boundary fence against wet rot and insect damage. There are two main types of gravel boards, timber and concrete. You can purchase composite and vinyl gravel boards, but these are rare and usually used with composite fence panels or alongside vinyl fencing.

Timmersol seasoned applewood timber treatment

Which treatment should I use?

If you are opting for a natural look then you might consider applying two coats of timber preserve and then two coats of decking oil. If you want to stain the fencing at the same time as maintaining it, you can go for a coloured timber preserve. We love Timmersol Clear Stabiliser and Waterproofer or Timmersol Applewood Stabiliser and Waterproofer made in England from a blend of wax, oil and resin. Timmersol make their wood preservative in several other colours, so there are lots of choices!

All fencing needs maintenance, no matter what the style of a boundary fence, whether you choose picket fencing, hit and miss fencing, slatted fencing, decorative garden screening, trellis fencing, decorative garden panels or decorative garden trellis panels – every part of every panel needs occasional care and attention.

Step 5: Decorative garden gates

Integrating decorative garden gates into your fencing run can transform your boundary into a statement of style and elegance. A decorative garden gate serves as a focal point, inviting you into the garden and providing a secure entry and exit. Whether you choose a wrought iron gate with intricate scrollwork or a timber gate featuring a bespoke decoration fitted to decorative garden posts you can be sure the gate will reflect your taste and complement your home and garden’s architectural features.

The beauty of decorative gates lies in their versatility. They can be incorporated into your fence run ensuring cohesion throughout the property. Additionally, decorative gates can be framed by climbing plants on either side adding to the overall aesthetic appeal. Ultimately a well-chosen decorative gate not only secures your garden but elevates the garden’s charm making your gate part of the garden landscape.

Step 6: Decorative garden posts

Decorative gates and fence panels deserve decorative fence posts, these decorative garden posts are the foundation that holds your fence panels and decorative gate in place. Crafted with the same attention to detail as the fence panels and gates themselves, decorative fence posts are not merely functional; they are ornamental pillars that enhance the overall design. The use of fence post caps adds to their appeal, whether capped with ornate finials or shaped into elegant curves, fence post caps act as a form of protection (keeping the water away from the post) and as an eye-catching detail. Together decorative fence panels, gates, fence posts and fence post caps tell a story about you and your oasis of calm.

Wooden fence posts

These are the most traditional fence posts available. When you buy decorative fencing expect to buy matching wooden fence posts. Choosing the right wooden fence post will offer functionality and a solid foundation for your boundary fence. Our wooden fence posts are made in the UK by Forest Garden, an established expert who makes pressure treated fence posts from premium quality FSC-certified wood. These top-quality timber fence posts are not only attractive they are hardwearing too.

Our timber fence posts are made from wood grown in sustainable forests making them an excellent eco-friendly option for all your fencing and garden gate installations. Our FSC-certified timber fence posts are pressure treated for resilience, they are designed to withstand anything the British weather can throw at them - through wind, rain, sleet or snow, even wet foggy conditions, our fence posts are made to withstand it all.

Concrete fence posts

The alternative to wooden fence posts is concrete fence posts, which can be installed with decorative trellis panels, ornamental trellis panels, decorative garden fence panels, tongue and groove fencing, picket fencing, hit and miss fencing and slatted fencing. They work with any kind of decorative fencing, contemporary fence panels and even traditional fence panels. Concrete fence posts and matching gravel boards are a solid and dependable framework for your new garden fence.

Concrete fence posts are particularly useful in harsh ground conditions, particularly wet or acidic soil, that might not suit pressure treated timber fence posts quite so well. When combined with concrete gravel boards this tag team make a fencing framework that is hard to beat.

Height rule for fence posts

In the UK the standard height rule for fence posts is determined by the overall fence height, which is regulated by local councils and planning permission. For back gardens, fence posts can support fences up to two metres height without planning permission. Front garden fences or those adjacent to public footpaths or highways can be limited to one metre high depending on location and specific council rules. These limitations help maintain visibility for those looking out. While these are general rules, it is important to check local regulations as conservation areas have different rules. It is always a good idea to comply with regulations as this avoids expensive disputes.

See our related blog articles on this topic:

Adding post caps and finials

Fence post caps, tops and finals are not only decorative features they also serve a practical purpose. They protect the end grain of the fence post from weathering, decay and insect and fungal infestation, extending the life of the fence post and in turn the fence panels. Aesthetically they provide a finished look, adding a cap to the top of your fence post tells everyone that you care about the finished product and want it to last.

Gravel boards

We discussed decorative fence protection in detail in step four, but we think it is worth mentioning the value of gravel boards again. Gravel boards are used underneath your fence, between the fence panel and the ground to protect your boundary fence against wet rot and insect damage. When used in conjunction with a concrete fence post you have a robust foundation to build your fence upon that will not let you down. While we love a concrete gravel board and concrete fence post combo you can choose timber gravel boards and wooden fence posts, it just depends on your budget and taste.

Step 7: Buy decorative fencing accessories

Buy Fencing Direct is your comprehensive source for fencing supplies and accessories, catering to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Our inventory includes durable, user-friendly products, including:

1) Bases - for a strong, moisture-resistant foundation
2) Brackets - for structural fence building integrity
3) Post caps and finials - for a stylish finish
4) Post drivers – which facilitate easy spike placement
5) Solar panel lighting - for fences, sheds, and other garden buildings
6) Spikes - for secure fence post installation
7) Supports and fixings – which are essential for building resilient fences
8) Weather protection treatments - for fence panels, posts, and gates

It is our job to think of everything, so you do not have to. We ensure that every aspect of your garden project is covered with quality and care you would expect from seasoned professionals, providing you with the peace of mind and the freedom to enjoy your garden, and beautifully enclosed outside space. Why choose plain fencing when you can have decorative fence styles that add a certain “je ne sais quoi” to your landscape?

Is it possible to buy cheap decorative fence panels?

To be honest, you get what you pay for. If you visit our decorative fence panels page, there is only the 6'x6' Forest Essential Double Slatted Fence Panel, which is located on our cheap fence panels page.

The cost of decorative fencing panels starts from roughly double the price of our most expensive cheaper fence panels. Ultimately the choice is yours, if you want that special decorative fencing look in your garden that will last for years then the extra price will be worth paying.

Although we do not sell cheap decorative fence panels, you will find the price of our decorative fencing is very competitive in the marketplace.

Delivery of decorative fence panels

Here are answers to two of the most frequently asked questions we receive about delivery.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery will vary for our decorative fencing panels with expected lead times varying anywhere from between three days to three weeks. Visit our decorative fence panels page and view individual products for the current expected delivery lead times. Our pick-a-day delivery option information is listed here too and is available on many decorative fences and enables you to choose your preferred delivery date at the time of purchase.

Once ordered, Forest Garden (the manufacturer) will be in contact to schedule an agreeable delivery date. Please try to be precise about your delivery requirements as changes after placing your order can be difficult to amend, especially when close to the delivery date.

Are there any delivery costs?

Orders for decorative garden fence panels need to be for a minimum £100 order value to be eligible for free delivery. Orders which fall below this value will be subject to a delivery charge. In addition, some more remote postcodes will also incur extra delivery surcharges, even where free delivery is usually available.

Fencing and decking orders require a minimum order value of £100 to qualify for free delivery. Orders below the minimum value incur a delivery charge. Some more remote postcodes do incur delivery surcharges even where free delivery is available to others. Use our postcode checker tool for further information about charges to your area.

Refer to our delivery page at this link for further information.

Contact us

We realise this decorative fence panels buying guide is detailed but if you do have any extra questions, please contact us! Our expert team will be able to advise you on everything you need to know as you buy decorative fencing.