Gone are the days when garden fences were simply a privacy barrier between your garden and the next. 

Quirky, stylish fences have taken the world by storm with many home owners using their garden fence as the frame that holds their gardening canvas together. 

There’s umpteen different reasons why somebody might want to erect a garden fence. You might be looking to zone certain areas of your garden? Maybe you’re looking to improve security and privacy? Is there a spot in your garden that needs a little extra shelter? Or perhaps, you’ve been inspired to spruce up your garden with a little more decor?  

Garden fences are very personal so you really need to weigh up your options before diving in. Just remember, it’s going to be the focal point of your garden and you’ll be the one living with it for the foreseeable future!

The limitless garden fencing options can be slightly overwhelming, so we’re here to make life a little easier with our pick of the bunch. With a mixture of cost-effective, stylish, low maintenance and unique fencing alternatives, we hope you enjoy our 15 best garden fencing ideas.

 

garden-fence-ideas

 

Natural Plant Fence

 

What could be more soothing than lying in your garden on a warm day with the calming breeze of the wind whistling through the privacy hedge that you planted? No, I couldn’t think of anything either. Both organic and attractive, natural fencing is a wallet-friendly, DIY alternative that’ll shroud your garden in privacy. You could go for a row of bamboo plants in large planters that would build a sense of tranquility around the garden. Another option could be a low maintenance, Thuja conifer hedge that’ll give your garden that colourful, aromatic screen you’ve always wanted.

 

natural-plant-fence

 

Natural Wooden Fence

 

Why not go old-school with a sturdy, natural wooden fence? It might seem like a cop-out, but sometimes less really is more. Your options are boundless and you’ve got the flexibility to do what you like once it’s up. Paint it whatever colour you’d like, hang decorative planters and baskets off it, grow plants through it, while still having that all important protection and privacy from unwanted guests (foxes, critters, neighbours etc.) If you’re planning on rolling your sleeves up and doing a bit of DIY, you’ll need to make sure you get the right wood. Cedar wood is strong, will resist the wet weather and will give your fence a glistening tint. 

 

simple-spaced-wooden-fence

 

Gabion Fence

 

I think it’s safe to say that gabions are a modern spin on the ‘traditional’ garden fence. It may sound like a creature from middle-earth, but we promise gabions are large metal baskets made out of wire mesh. We know the sound of a metal fence isn’t very attractive. However, fill them up with heavy, sustainable materials such as stone, logs of wood, or even some old artifacts from the loft, (let your imagination go wild) and you’ve got yourself a quirky, elegant feature wall/fence. Gabions are suitable in most gardens and look great with a fire pit! They also guarantee privacy and require next to no maintenance – apart from lugging all your pebbles from the beach to fill it!

 

gabion-fence

 

Bamboo Fence

 

There’s something about being surrounded by bamboo that releases a sense of zen and peacefulness through the air. The unique aesthetic of the bamboo can make any house in the west of Scotland feel like a tropical beach hut. The glossy, defined wood is great if you want to cover a concrete wall with an elegant feature. Bamboo also comes in a range of colours so it shouldn’t be too hard to match it up with the rest of your home. In terms of durability, bamboo is incredibly resistant to both sun and rain and your bamboo fence will require minimal maintenance – unless you’re expecting a storm, where we’d advise you to take it down to ensure it doesn’t get ruined!  

 

bamboo-fence

 

 Trellis Fencing 

 

A garden trellis is the name given to the interwoven lattice design of the wooden fence. Incredibly satisfying to gaze at, the trellis panels creates a see-through boundary that is great for zoning your garden, supporting climbing plants, or hanging up signs, lights, or any other gardening paraphernalia you own. Available in a range of different colours and styles, trellis panels can also be attached to the wall with ease. Without planning permission you can build your trellis fence up to a max of 6’6” which should be high enough for a decent level of privacy.

 

woven-trellis-fencing

 

Woven Panel Fencing

 

Woven panel fences are a contemporary take on the traditional wooden fence design. As the name suggests, each individual slat is woven in and out of 3 sturdy vertical battens to give the fence its unique bumpy style and texture. They’re particularly good for smaller or more shaded gardens as they don’t make your garden feel too enclosed and the woven panels allow light to pass through while still offering complete privacy. Suited to any type of garden, your woven panel fence would be ideal for framing or screening and comes with a 25 year guarantee.

 

woven-panel-fence

 

Picket Fence

I think we’d all agree that the white picket fence has been Hollywood’s go-to for the setting of middle-class suburbia for the past however many years. Elegant and dainty, the picket fence is available in a range of sizes and looks great in any colour. It sets the foundation for a very welcoming and open garden design that brings out the lush greenery of the grass. You’re also onto a winner as it’s relatively easy to install and very cost-effective.

 

white-picket-fence

 

Mesh Panel Fencing

 

Mesh panel fencing may not appeal to everybody but the rigid structure of the mesh panels makes it incredibly durable, low-maintenance and extremely resistant to vandalism or climbing. There different types of mesh panel fencing – you’ve got mesh wire fencing (which is what you would see surrounding a prison) and then there’s rigid panel mesh fencing which is more common around sports pitches, parks and schools. However, you’ve also got thicker mesh panels that look very stylish (and slightly futuristic) atop the solid walls of a modern house. It could be an option if your house is at the bottom of a hill being looked into by another house and will provide you with a great deal of privacy and protection.

 

 

Tire Fence

 

This is just here to show you where a little imagination can get you. Are you all about sustainability? Why not throw the gardening handbook out the window and add a little rustic character to your garden. All it takes is collecting a few recycled tyres over the years and you’ve got what you need. Stack them on top of each other to your desired height and leave some space to plant mini flower beds or a little vegetable garden in between the tyres. Once you get your chillies growing you really will have a set of ‘hot wheels’!

 

tire-fence

 

Stainless Steel Fencing

 

It may sound as if you’re barricading yourself in from the outside world, but stainless steel fencing is mega contemporary and versatile. With metal fence panels available in all shapes and sizes, you’ve got the ability to design a ‘collage’ like structure around the garden. Stainless steel fences are shaped by laser-cutting so feel free to incorporate your own funky, personalised design if you wish. It’s a chic, modern alternative to your more common garden fence ideas and the stainless steel sheets won’t set you back too much.

 

stainless-steel-fence

 

Rustic Driftwood Fencing

 

Plucked straight out of the shire (and a few horror films), rustic driftwood fence will add a barrage of artisan character to your garden. The smooth, ‘spiky-ish’ appearance of the driftwood brings a new dimension of creativity and elegance that will make your garden flourish. You’ve got the option to space your fence posts apart or align them together creating a structure that slightly resembles a Peruvian Pan Flute. If you don’t fancy a driftwood fence covering your whole outdoor space, garden gates are a quirky alternative that’ll bring your garden to life. They also add a certain level of security, but they’re more likely to show your garden off than anything.

 

rustic-driftwood-fence

 

Old Shutter Fencing

 

If you’re in the process of revamping your house, as well as your garden, why not kill two birds with one stone by using your old shutters that would otherwise be going in the skip. You won’t have to spend a penny and you’ll have an idyllic, personal fence that looks authentic. They’re great for hanging plants off and they’ll give your garden a real-homely feel too. You’ve also got the freedom to paint them any colour you wish. Just a thought for the visionaries out there. 

 

shutter-fence

 

Pallet Fencing

 

Why not repurpose a few of your old reliable decking pallets and build a traditional pallet fence? Pallets are unique in the way that they are both as equally rustic as they are modern. Easy to score and a relatively simple DIY job, pallets are a popular go-to because of their versatility. They’re small and light enough to stack on top of each other, smooth enough that you can paint them, and cheap enough that you can cover your whole garden for ultimate privacy.

 

pallet-fencing

 

Black Horizontal Slats

 

An absolute winner when combined with white concrete walls, these black horizontal slats are a modern take on a classy garden fence. Simple, yet elegant, these fences are easy to maintain, and provide a great deal of privacy around your front garden. The contrast of the black fence and the white walls go hand in hand and look great surrounded by an array of trees, flower beds, and lush grass.

 

horizontal-black-slats

 

Wire Fencing

 

If you’ve got any pets that like to rummage around your flower beds or vegetable patches, a wire fence is a cheap, low maintenance solution to the problem. Wire fencing can be very unassuming and quite retro in comparison to other fencing ideas, however, it’s still incredibly effective. The transparent appearance of the wire fence ensures that you’ll still have an excellent view of everything that’s going on inside and out. The strength and durability of the wire mesh means that they’ll be able to withstand years of being used as a football goal if you’ve got any children.

 

wire-fencing

 

What’s next?

 

So there we have it folks.

I hope you’ve managed to take some inspiration from our diverse collection of fencing ideas.

It’s really important to visualise exactly what you want your garden to look like, and then take the necessary steps to achieve your desired outcome. 

All gardens are different, so you’ve got to utilize your space to create a comfortable, feel-good environment that offers you the right level of privacy and security. 

If you’re looking for a few ideas, why not take a look at our range of fence panels and our decking calculator to calculate how much material you’ll actually need for your project.


If you’d prefer to have a chat about your fencing options, please don’t hesitate to call us at 01236 727 776. Or better yet, come and pay us a visit at our timberyard to discuss your fencing ideas face-to-face.

As homeowners, we take pride in preserving our gardens. Levelling a garden can end up being a hefty job, but trust us when we tell you it will make your life a whole lot easier when it comes to maintaining your garden. 

It’s also an extremely practical skill that will save you a few pennies if you’re a DIY fanatic fancying a challenge. It will almost always increase the value of your property when it’s all done so it’s definitely worth it!

Read on to find out exactly how to level a garden.

 

Causes

When it comes to sloped or uneven lawns there are a few usual suspects that can cause the damage:

Getting a handle on the causes and issues is essential before starting the levelling process. 

This article will provide a definitive guide to levelling your garden that will have all the neighbours peering over your fence with jealousy!

 

how to level your garden

 

When should you level your garden?

 

 

If you’ve been putting your heart and soul into the garden and all you’ve been rewarded with is uneven, bumpy dips then it’s time to take action. 

Constantly running into problems with your drainage system is a clear sign that you need to level your garden. Drainage issues can be tricky to fix by yourself so you may need to seek advice from a landscaper.

Damaged pipes are another red flag as they have the tendency to cause uneven ground and can waterlog your garden.

The optimal time to start levelling your garden is throughout springtime. This will allow your wet soil to settle and gives your grass seed enough time to grow. You may be able to get away with a reasonable levelling during Autumn if you get lucky with the weather (bit of a gamble in Scotland!) 

The most important thing to remember is making sure your soil is moist and soft before you start. We advise you water your soil a couple of days before you intend to start – if your soil is too wet it will be very difficult to work with.  

 

Soil Moisture Depth

You need to water your soil to a depth of at least 15cm (6 inches) to ensure it is moist enough. You can check your soil moisture depth in a number of ways:

 

when to level your graden

 

How to level small bumps (shallow low spots)

 

After evaluating your garden, it’s really important that you choose the correct method of fixing the issue. This will prevent any further damage in the future. 

There are two main methods: one for mending small bumps (shallow low spots) and another for deeper holes (deep low spots). Both methods require you to apply a mixture onto the damaged areas of the lawn. Referred to as the top dressing mixture, it must contain 2 parts sand, 2 parts topsoil and 1 part compost. You can make this mixture easily using a spade or a shovel. 

For the small bumps (1-2cm deep):

  1.  Start by applying a thin layer of our mixture all over the damaged area. Once applied, you need to give it a good ol’ even spread using a garden rake. 
  2. You then want to tamp (pack) the soil down with your feet and the rake followed by a little mist of water to help it settle.  
  3. Job done for now – leave the mixture to work it’s magic for 48 hours. Make sure to check on the progress!
  4. When you come back you can apply the grass seed, as well as another wee top up of topsoil mixture.
  5. For the next 48 hours, give the soil a light spray of water 4 x a day to ensure the grass seeds are germinating.
  6. Finally, water the area regularly to let the grass seeds grow.

 

how to level small bumps

 

How to level deeper holes (deeper low spots)

 

As you may have thought, levelling deeper holes is the more complex of the two methods: 

  1. First off, if your holes are deeper than 2cm you’ll need a squared-off shovel. 
  2. Using your shovel, make an ‘X marks the spot’ shape through the deep hole. Your ‘X’ should be around 5cm deep. Make sure the middle of your ‘X’ is aligned with the centre of your hole and the edges of your ‘X’ go beyond the edges of the hole.
  3. Now you want to join the edges of your ‘X’ to form a square with 4 segments. 
  4. After you’ve done this, remove each segment one by one keeping the shovel as horizontal as possible to maintain an even thickness of soil. Remember to keep the grass/soil if you are reusing it. (If your soil is too dry and crumbly, you will find out at this stage).
  5. Remove any stones/debris and crumble up any large clumps.
  6. Compact the soil by standing on it (this reduces the chance of future sinking)
  7. Add the mixture (2 parts sand, 2 parts topsoil and 1 part compost) until it fills the designated area. 
  8. Rake over the area to break the soil down.
  9. Put back the segments of turf that you originally dug up, or replace them with new turf.
  10. Starting at the edges of your ‘X’ and working in, tamp down the soil.  Sprinkle the remaining gaps with the top dressing mixture to prevent them from drying out.
  11. Finally, after all your hard work remember to water regularly to let the grass seeds grow.

 

how to level deeper holes

 

How to level a sloping garden

 

Before you make the decision to level your sloping garden, it’s handy to know that a slight downward slope in the garden is actually key to good drainage. You should have a real think about whether you need to level off your garden. Some mild to moderate slopes may not even need to be levelled off at all.

If your slope is manageable, you should look into the possibility of planting flower beds and veggies. You never want to have exposed soil, so planting flowers and vegetables will ensure your soil remains healthy and your drainage improves. 

It will also save you a whole lot of time and money, as well as, making your garden more attractive and practical. 

If you do opt for this route, make sure you don’t leave any soil exposed when planting as this can lead to erosion and drainage issues.

Levelling a sloping garden requires different methods depending on the severity of your slope. 

 

Create Low Terraces

One method for levelling a sloping garden is to add stair-like terraces to aid the planting of your plants and veggies etc. Terraces can also provide a great recreational space so you can show off your new and improved garden at all those summer BBQs!

If you are looking to add decking to your terrace, you can use our personalised decking calculator to get an accurate quote back within two days.

For small jobs, it can be as easy as shifting the soil already in your garden, followed by adding braces to the area where you are creating the stairs. If you feel this applies to you, there’s no need to buy fill dirt to help with the structure of the stairs.

For larger job you may want to have a chat with a landscaper to weigh up your best options.

Once that’s done, the next stage is to add your preferred brick, stone, or wood around the steps. The quicker you start planting the better, as this will help prevent your soil from eroding.

Vegetables are a great option for preventing erosion and improving your drainage. However, when it comes to protecting your soil with plants you have to be careful. Only plants with deep roots or rhizomes can keep the terraces stable as their root systems interlock beneath the soil.

 

Steep Slopes

Terracing steep sloping gardens require a little bit more work than just moving soil around the garden. Although, terracing your garden is still a great way to fix your slope, it requires more attention and stronger reinforcement.

It’s important to move fast when levelling a steep slope to prevent any damage to the foundation of your house. If you’re tackling the slope by yourself it’s essential that you figure out the root of the problem. Choosing the correct and appropriate measures are also very important.

Materials that can be used to level a sloping garden include:

 

Retaining Wall

An alternative to terracing is to build a retaining wall around the garden. It’s a great option if you’ve not got a huge deal of space, or you don’t want to go through the longer terracing process. 

You’ll need to pick yourself up some fill dirt to cover the area between the natural level of your garden and your new retaining wall. We recommend that your retaining wall should be no bigger than 2ft. This is because they take a lot of pressure from the weight of the soil and rain water.

If you would like to make it a little taller, just make sure that your retaining wall leans back into the soil slightly so it has support.

You must also use sturdy materials to build your wall. The materials listed above are ideal as they guarantee strength and reliability.  

 

How to level a sloping garden

 

What does gardening leveling cost?

 

There is no fixed rate as prices vary depending on a number of factors such as:

Here’s a few average landscaping costs (UK) that can help you make your decision:

These prices are all estimated quotes  from online sources. In order to get an accurate price you should get in touch with your local landscaper to assess the scope of the project.

Professional costs for levelling a garden with steep slopes can be anywhere between £500-1000 depending on all of the factors listed above. Moderate slopes can cost in the region of £350-600.

Take these prices with a pinch of salt as they are all estimates. We just want to give you a faint idea of what to expect. 

If you’re up for a DIY challenge, you may have to rent a grader and a sod cutter if you don’t already own them. They can set you back around £500. You’ll also need a string level, shovel and stakes which you can get for about £10.

If you are going to take it on yourself, make sure to put aside 5 days for the work. You should be honest with yourself and make sure you are capable of doing the job.

Just remember if you don’t get it right the first time it can be a very expensive project!

 

what does garden levelling cost

 

Get in Touch

If you would like to know more about garden levelling or looking to revamp your garden, we’d love to hear from you!

If you’d like to know more, please don’t hesitate to get in contact. Email us at sales@istaf.co.uk or phone us at 01236 727 776. 

Building legislation can be a bit of a maze when trying to upgrade your garden and home. We’ve been in the fencing industry for many years now, so we’ve learnt to navigate the legislative landscape pretty darn well.

In this guide, we’ll take you through all the questions you might have on planning permissions if you’re about to erect a new fence.

If by the end we’ve not answered one of your burning questions – please do not hesitate to give us a call or come visit us at our timber yard in Cumbernauld.

Let’s get started!

 

Who ‘owns’ the fence?

 

Before you start erecting a new fence or tear down and old wall, best to double-check that you are in fact the owner of the fence.

As a fence usually marks the boundary of your property, and sometimes where the neighbouring one starts, there are no set rules about who owns a fence when in between two properties in close proximity.

If you really need to know, you will usually be able to find this information in the deed to your property – but accessing your deed is sometimes easier said than done.

In the spirit of friendly neighbourship, and to avoid a neighbourly dispute, we often recommend that you just have a chat with your neighbour about it.

More often than not, this type of thing can be solved over a cup of coffee and you can either decide who gets to erect the new fence – or agree on a suitable fencing option and then split the erection and maintenance cost.

 

When do you require planning permission for your fence?

 

You’ve decided you need a new fence or to upgrade the old one, so how do you know what you legally can and can’t do?

Here are a few of the regulations to keep in mind with regards to height restrictions:

 

When do you not require planning permission for your fence?

 

If the fence you’re planning is pretty standard stuff, there’s a good chance you won’t need planning permission for your fence.

Check out the general rules below to see if you should be sending out a planning application or if you can just go ahead and erect your new fence:

 

What’s the maximum height for a fence with a trellis topper?

 

A trellis topper can be a lighter, less dramatic way to add a bit of height to your garden fence. Erecting a high fence can sometimes be perceived negatively, especially if you have close neighbours, but a medium fence with a trellis topper is a handy way to get around that.

Whether just to add a splash of wood or for your green ivy to climb up – a trellis topper is a nice addition to almost any garden.

Here are a few of the legal lowdowns of trellis toppers and maximum heights:

 

How and where to apply for planning permission?

 

If you’re wanting to apply for planning permission for your building project then you need to do this via the planning portal ePlanning.scot – this it the Scottish Planning Permission portal where you can submit applications, track progress, appeal decisions and pay for the whole shebang.

It’s all pretty straight forward and there is even a Fee Calculator that will give you an estimated price of what your planning permission will cost.

You can also still submit a planning permission application in hand if that’s more your style. The paper forms you are going to need for submitting your planning application in hand are available from the ePlanning.scot portal as well.

If you have any questions on how it works, or can’t quite figure out the website, then we recommend you call up your local planning authority.

 

What could happen if I don’t get planning permission for my new fence?

 

Should you choose to ignore the rules and go ahead with your fencing there might be some negative consequences.

If your fence/wall/garden gate doesn’t comply with the permitted development and hasn’t obtained the correct planning permission, your local council could issue an enforcement notice for you to take down your fence/ wall/ gate.

The local council can issue enforcement notices up to four years after the date the fence/wall/gate was put up but after that, you’ll likely not hear from them.

To avoid stressful situations that might result in receiving an enforcement notice, or end up in a neighbouring dispute – we recommend that you always carefully look into your development rights and seek the appropriate planning permissions.

To avoid conflict, it’s always a good idea to clear your grand plans with the guys next door if the new fence is what’s separating your gardens.

 

Planning permission costs

 

On ePlanning.scot there is a handy fee calculator. This planning permission fee calculator can calculate all sorts of fees whether for an extension, building a new house, installing new garden decking, or erecting a wall or new fence.

We’ve clicked our way through the fee calculator as if we were planning to erect a new fence and the total cost came out at about £200 for submitting the planning application.

 

Do I need building regulations or any other regulations?

 

Depending on where you live, you might need other approvals than just the regular planning permission. For example, you might need approval under the building regulations. This approval goes through the local council.

As previously mentioned, should you live in, or in some cases just near a historically listed building then you also need to obtain listed building consent.

If you are not the owner of the land where you are erecting a fence, i.e. if you are renting your property or if the new fence is within your neighbours’ dwelling boundary then you need to obtain the permission of the landowner before going ahead.

 

What’s next?

 

If you’re on the lookout for material, check out our fence supplies and our fencing calculator to calculate how much material you are going to need.

If you need a hand planning or perhaps aren’t feeling the build yourself, our timber experts are ready to help you out! Come by our timberyard and we’d be happy to discuss your project!

 

 

Don’t fancy yourself as much of a gardener but still want a pretty outdoor space to chill out in?

Whilst searching for low maintenance garden ideas, you might be close to just paving over your entire garden so it becomes one big block of concrete. Yes, this is very low maintenance, but it is also very ugly.

Despite what you might think,it is completely possible to have a low maintenance garden that is gorgeous. Here’s our list of low maintenance garden ideas, pick and choose the features you love and go create that dream garden of yours!

 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Grass

 
One of your biggest obstacles to a low maintenance garden is the grass.

Having a bright green, healthy and attractive lawn is not exactly low maintenance. You need to feed, water it and mow it on a semi-regular basis. We can already hear you groaning at the mere thought of hauling the lawnmower out of the shed every Tuesday after work.

One option is to just remove the lawn entirely and gravel it instead, adding some plant life in other ways to bring some colour to the garden.

If you do want to keep a bit of the greenery, just make sure that your lawn is small and simple, with no awkward shapes that will make mowing more difficult and time-consuming.

 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Patio

 
A patio is an effortless way to structure a garden and is a great alternative to having metres of grass to tend to.

If you are laying a patio, make sure that there are around six to eight inches of compacted gravel underneath to keep the drainage lines clear. This will stop water building up and messing up your path, giving you extra work.

Having a properly laid patio will stop weeds creeping up through the cracks, contributing to a lovely low maintenance garden!

 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Deck

 
Extend your living space with a garden deck!

Having a large seating area with swing seats or sofas will reduce your garden maintenance workload. The garden deck needs little maintenance, compared to grassy spaces and plants that will need daily, weekly, and monthly tending.

Once a decking framework has been constructed and adorned with comfortable furniture and cheerful decor, it’s smooth sailing from there.

You can construct the decking yourself or get an expert in.

 

 

Plants

 
Obviously having fewer plants means you’ll have less work, but that doesn’t mean that your low maintenance garden needs to be devoid of any flowers.

Stick to a small select number of low maintenance plants. Pick too many varieties and you’ll have to work to different watering schedules as well having the worries of repotting and pruning. It can be a lot to keep on top of.

Evergreen plants are a good option. Any plants that are prone to being eaten by garden animals or are classed as ‘climbers’, like ivy, are a no-go if you want to use your green thumb minimally.

Steer clear of having multiple containers of plants. They will need consistently watered and pruned, whereas plants growing in the earth are more self-sufficient.

 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Beds

 
Flowerbeds will liven up your garden space and don’t require much attention if set up properly.

Low maintenance shrubs like lavender, holly, and daphne are well suited for these beds. They pretty much take care of themselves!

Dress the beds with mulch. Mulch is good because it degrades and fertilises your plants whilst preventing weeds from poking through to the surface. It’s inexpensive and the water that soaks into it hydrates your plants, reducing the amount of time you’ll have to water them.

 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Decor

 
Simple ornaments, arches, and pergolas are cost-effective and attractive features to integrate into your garden.

They have minimal upkeep so should definitely be included in your low maintenance garden.

Whilst water features and ponds are pretty additions to a garden, they are not the easiest to look after. Don’t bother with them, or you’ll forever be sieving out yucky bits of pond scum!

 
 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Storage

 
To keep your garden clean and tidy with little effort, make sure you construct a nice insulated garden shed to store all your tools, wellies and garden machinery.

Position the shed close to where you’ll be using the equipment stored inside – if you have a large garden, don’t keep the shed on the opposite side of the garden from your grassy area. You’ll not be pleased when you need to get the lawnmower out!

You can decorate the outside of the shed too to add another splash of colour into the garden without adding much to your garden upkeep!

 
low maintenance garden ideas
 

Fencing

 
Having a hedge surrounding your garden might give it that Alice in Wonderland feel, but it’s not the lowest maintenance feature.

Instead of a hedge, think about having a simple wooden fence. There are many different kinds of fencing to choose from which will all add another aesthetically pleasing dimension to your garden.

You can choose to paint your fence, but if you want to reduce your garden maintenance tasks even further, skip this step, and you’ll not have to do top up coats in the future. As long as you make sure that you are either buying pre-treated wood or treating the wooden planks yourself before you start digging them into the ground.

 
Treated fence panels Stewart Timber
 

Let Stewart Timber Kit Out Your Low Maintenance Garden!

 
Decking, sheds, fencing, and garden furniture – at Stewart Timber we have a massive range of materials to help you kit out your garden.

Our experts have the knowledge to work with you to develop your vision for your garden, ensuring you have all the materials necessary to bring it alive.

If you don’t fancy building it all yourself, we can recommend you a a timber installation specialist.

For all your queries, contact us today and we’ll be happy to help!

There were some pretty intense winds and showers over the Christmas holidays and it may have taken its toll on your perfect garden fence, forcing you to get stuck into some fence repair Google searches.

As soon as you notice a chip or crack in your fence, or notice that they are wobbly, slanted, or rotten, then the whole structure is in danger of collapse and needs strengthened – pronto!

Fence repair might not be very high on your list of priorities in the New Year, but if you put in the time just now to fix your fence panels and posts, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and money in the long-run, preventing further damage.

If you missed our winter fence preparation blog, this fence post repair guide is just what you need!

As always, make sure you have your protective gear on before cracking on with the DIY.

fence repair

Cracks and Splits

It might look minor just now (or maybe it is actually a major split!) but a crack in your fence panels or posts may lead to the demise of your entire fence structure!

It’s important to act fast and zip it all back together, and luckily, as long as the damage isn’t too severe, you can carry out this fence repair quite simply.

Get your hands on some waterproof glue, designed specifically for wood and outdoor use. Clean any loose debris out of the post split gap.

Dip a paintbrush into the glue and force it inside the split from the top down, coat it thoroughly and thick enough that it’ll hold together.

Using strong clamps, hold the split glued wood together and leave it to dry for several hours, preferably overnight.

When you remove the clamps, the glue should have set and there will be a slightly visible seam where you’ve sealed it together.

fence repair

Rotten

If you notice that any of your fence panels or posts are rotten beyond repair, they will need removed and replaced.

It won’t be a straightforward process of yanking out the offending component and planting a new one in – you need to carefully detach the component from the healthy fence panels so you don’t cause further damage to the structure.

Using a shovel, dig out the base of the fence post. If it’s set in concrete you’ll need the right equipment to crack into it. Clear out the hole of any debris, including wooden splinters, slivers of concrete, and anything else you don’t want trapped under the post/panel for eternity.

Have your replacement post/panel handy. It needs to be the same size as the rotten one in order to fit perfectly into the hole in the concrete. The wood should be coated with a good layer of wood preservative and allowed to properly dry before placing it in the ground, to prevent another rotting episode.

Place the new post into the hole, bracing it temporarily so it is level. After all this hard work, you don’t want a slanted fence! Pour in new concrete footing around the base of the post, ensuring that the concrete slopes downwards to stop water pooling at the base, soaking into the post.

Seal the base with a waterproof filler once the concrete footing has completely dried and reattach the other parts of the fence structure. It should be completely secured, protected from the rest of the season’s harsh weather!

fence repair

Wobbly

Your fence might be rather wobbly after the gail force Scottish winter winds but this is a fairly easy fence repair.

The fence panels/posts are likely wobbly because the wood is shrinking inside the concrete footing. Squeeze some waterproof filler into the gaps and allow to dry, and it should stay in place.

Alternatively, if there is no concrete footing at the base of your fence, you can add in a support post beside the wobbly post to strengthen it. This second post will be thinner but the same width as the wobbly post. Drive it a few feet into the ground and bolt the two posts together.

fence repair

Leaning

When a fence begins to lean forwards or backwards, it’s also a straightforward fence repair.

Again, you’ll need to detach the leaning posts/panels from the surrounding fence structure.

Dig up the post from the concrete, breaking all the footing up and clearing it away.

Reset the post into position, ensuring that it is level. Brace it to keep it standing straight and tall, and pour the new concrete footing in.

When the footing has set, reassemble the fence using new galvanised nails, making sure everything is tight and strong.

fence repair

Fence Repair Accomplished

Here at Stewart Timber, we are passionate about building wooden structures, like fencing and decking, that will last a lifetime.

With the right installment and maintenance, your investment in good quality, pressure-treated timber will be long-lasting.

If you need a hand working out how much your project will cost you, have a look at our fencing calculator, as well as our blog post which explains all the important details to bear in mind.

For any other queries or concerns, contact us directly – we are always happy to help!

Despite the bitter cold air and the frosty grass, you might be looking forward to the new year with your plans for your latest garden project.

Have you decided whether you’ll go it alone? Or will you recruit the help of timber specialists?

If you’re carrying out difficult work or something you’ve not done previously then recruiting the help of timber specialists is a clever move to make for a variety of reasons. In this article, we talk you through why we believe hiring a timber specialist is a good shout!

 
timber specialists
 

Cost

At the forefront of your mind with any garden project is probably the cost.

Many people are easily motivated to undertake whole decking, fencing and garden shed construction projects single-handedly in a bid to drive down the overall cost.

While this can be a good idea in some instances, it sometimes has the opposite effect!

If you’re fairly inexperienced, there’s considerable scope for making costly mistakes. From damaging materials to ordering the wrong pieces, it’s easy to end up flushing money down the drain.

Moreover, if you do a poor job, it may be unstable, easily damaged, or it will just look downright terrible. You’ll end up needing major renovation work done to it, or scrapping it completely in favour of a new one. Not exactly a financially savvy move!

Recruiting the guidance of timber specialists will help you to drive down costs in the long-run.

 
timber specialists
 

Durability

Seeking the assistance of qualified timber specialists with a wealth of experience will ensure that your resulting fence, decking, or shed is durable.

Timber is one of the most sustainable building materials and can last a lifetime if properly treated and maintained. If you try and source your own materials, you risk purchasing poor quality wood.

If you consult a timber specialist, they can make sure that you order the right sturdy materials. Timber specialists take pride in their work so they want to make sure that the outcome of any customer project is first-class.

You’ll likely gain more valuable insight to put to use for your project by speaking to timber specialists than you would a part-time sales assistant in a chain DIY and home improvement store.

 
timber specialists
 

Aesthetics

If you recruit or consult timber specialists, the project outcome is likely to be more aesthetically pleasing.

You might be guided to purchase pre-made items like decking kits. With these items, you’ll not end up with dodgy badly cut ends or crooked foundations.

Timber specialists have the experience to form a clear vision of what your final outcome will look like, so they can advise you on the best fittings to purchase and pre-made kits to invest in.

 
timber specialists
 

Quick

Consulting timber specialists can significantly reduce the project timescale.

You could spend hours upon hours trawling the Internet or shop aisles hunting for decent decking boards, and then even more time working out how many you’ll need as well as what fittings work with them.

Stewart Timber have a decking calculator and a fencing calculator to take the guesswork out of the planning, helping to keep you from making mistakes that will prolong the project timeline.

If you have any queries about your proposed project, timber specialists are happy to lend their years of experience to you, speeding up the project.

 
timber specialists
 

Support

And our final reason to recruit the help of timber specialists is to keep your local economy booming!

By seeking out their professional assistance, you will be actively supporting them, ensuring that SMEs can thrive in the face of larger businesses.

 
timber specialists
 

Looking For Timber Merchants Near Glasgow?

If you’re planning a grand garden project in the New Year, whether it be fencing, decking, or constructing a garden shed, Stewart Timber are on hand to help you out. Our blog is full of handy tips and tutorials to get you started.

Contact us to find out what our timber specialists can do for you!

Despite the dreary weather we’ve had recently, here at Stewart Timber, we are big advocates of using your garden to its fullest potential, all year round. From sprucing up your garden decking to insulating your shed, there is lots to do to keep your garden functional over winter.

An obvious deterrent to relaxing outside during winter is the cold. But picture this – huddling around a garden wood burner, toasting marshmallows, cosied up with your nearest and dearest.

We’ve talked about picking the right firewood and how to store your firewood on the blog before, but before you get this stage, you need to get an outdoor wood burner! How do you pick which to invest in?

garden wood burner

Types of Outdoor Wood Burner

Many people like the ease of firing up an outdoor gas heater, but these are not exactly environmentally-friendly, neither are they particularly cosy. At Stewart Timber, we’re all about bringing you back to your primal roots with more ecologically sound wood – it smells great, it’s cost-effective, and most importantly, keeps you toasty!

 

Fire Basket

Your smallest and cheapest option is a fire basket. These are essentially metal baskets with thick grates.

They are straightforward to move and store when they’re not in use. On the downside, because of the grating gaps, sparks and ash are likely to fly out.

 

Fire Pit

If you’re looking for something more enclosed, a fire pit is great. It’s perfect for social gatherings, allowing everyone to fully surround it, feeling the heat from all angles.

They are often bulkier than your average fire pit so if you don’t use it often, you may have difficulty storing it.

Additionally, you’ll need a fine mesh cover to stop sparks flying out.

Some people have fire pits built into the ground, rather than standalone prefabricated models.

garden wood burner

Chiminea

This is a freestanding fireplace with a bulbous body and a vertical chimney for smoke to filter through, so no smoke puffing into your face!

They generally have one opening at the front for the heat to come out of, though you can get ones with metal mesh around it so it functions more like a fire basket or pit.

Chimineas can be made of different materials, including clay and metal. They’re incredibly durable but heavy!

garden wood burner

Wood Burner

The most modern-looking option is the wood burner. Made of metal, it has a long chimney protruding from the top and usually has heatproof glass for you to see the flames flickering inside.

They are the most expensive option of them all but if you intend to use it regularly and want it to last, then it’s a fantastic investment.

 

What Will You Use It For?

What you intend to use the outdoor wood burner for will determine what type you should buy.

If you’re looking for something that is more tucked away and won’t be used too often, a fire pit is likely to be your best option.

If you want a focal point in your garden which large groups of people can gather around, you should consider a fire pit or wood burner.

A chiminea is good for 2 or 3 people to huddle around, great for personal use rather than big parties.

garden wood burner

Where Will It Go?

When you’re trying to decide between different wood burners, think about your particular garden space and how well each garden wood burner would fit into the space.

Before you go ahead though, check the regulations for garden wood burners in your locality.

The most comfortable height for an outdoor wood burner is around 10 to 12 inches off the ground – this way, you can sit normally in your seat and the heat will radiate towards you. Otherwise, you’ll need to crouch down onto the ground to have any chance of properly heating up.

If your garden isn’t sheltered from gusts of wind, think about whether you have a safe spot to place your garden wood burner so that the fire doesn’t go out. If not, you’d be better with an enclosed wood burner or chiminea.

Your garden wood burner should sit on a fireproof surface, like gravel or concrete. The choice of which depends on aesthetics and safety requirements. A fireproof pad should be placed beneath your burner.

Deciding where you would be able to place the garden wood burner will give you a better idea of which one to pick, accounting for practicality, safety and local regulations.

garden wood burner

What Will You Pick?

Have a think about what you want to use the garden wood burner for and what will work best in your garden.

When you’ve come to a decision and are ready to invest in some firewood, get in touch with us!

We offer a wide range of firewood, including briquettes, kiln dried firewood, kindling, and waxlings, as well as log stores to keep it safe and sound.

Enjoy cosying up next to your garden wood burner over Christmas!

 

Remember those lazy summer nights, relaxing on your decking, a warm breeze brushing through your hair and the smell of the BBQ dissipating into the atmosphere? Nights like those are gone for a fair few months. But that doesn’t mean that your decking should be neglected until next year.

At Stewart Timber, we’re firm believers that a garden is not just for summer. With the right design and features, it can serve you well all year round.

With our fantastic garden decking ideas, there’s no need to be cooped up inside over the winter months. Read on to find out how you can use your garden deck all year round!

 
Deck Lighting cosy
 

Toasty Roasty

 
“It’s freezing in winter!” I hear you argue. “How can I possibly enjoy lounging on my outside deck when it’s -12 degrees outside!”

Chilly gales and the potential of snow are probably putting you off spending time outdoors now that winter has set in.

It is, however, possible to keep toasty on your decking without wearing so many layers that you resemble a marshmallow. There are many outdoor heater options you can make use of.

Electric heaters are very popular as they’re cheap to run and heat up quickly. They’re great for heating large spaces. You can easily mount them on to the wall too so you can get greater coverage than just heating up your toes!

Gas heaters are another option – they are mobile, easier to set up than electric heaters, but they can be costly to run and take longer to get to your desired heating effect.

If you’re seeking a more rustic aesthetic, opt for a fire pit. If you choose this outdoor heater option, you need to ensure that the fire source is raised above the deck so the timber doesn’t catch. A fibre-cement mat is also useful to protect the area. Simply light up some charcoal or wood and you’ll be set with a really natural, cosy heat source that will lure you out of your home over winter.

 

 

A Good Feed

 
There is no more effective way to attract people towards an area than the smell of freshly cooked food.

A BBQ doesn’t just need to be for summer. You can easily set up a BBQ or portable gas grill on your decking so you can enjoy grilled kebabs, burgers, and buttery corn on the cobs in every season!

If you’re feeling fancy, installing a clay oven opens up more outdoor cooking possibilities for you. Fire up your own pizzas with some homemade dough and generous toppings, and happily tear off a slice while the snow falls around you!

 

 

Take Shelter!

 
No matter how cosy your heater makes the decking or how tasty the food you prepared on it is, you will not be sitting out there for long if snow is free-falling on top of your head, so it’s highly advised to set up some sort of shelter above your decking, it can help keep the heat too!

Add a rigid timber frame to your deck and then cover it with either awning fabric or sturdier roofing material to keep the sleet and snow off your decking and off of you, allowing you to enjoy winter nights.

 

 

Bubbles…

 
When you’re sitting in hot, bubbling water, you’ll completely forget that it’s below freezing outside. Garden jacuzzis are increasing in popularity, adding that extra bit of luxury to your decking.

When installing a garden jacuzzi, you’ll need to think carefully about its positioning. Find a spot that isn’t too exposed to the wind or completely tucked away in the shade. Is it open to nosey neighbours peeping over the fence? How will you power it? And how far do you need to run to the house when you pluck up the courage to get out?

Address these concerns, power up your hot tub, and let the bubbles wash away all your winter woes.

 

 

Let There Be Light

 
Bring some brightness to your garden decking. Being engulfed in darkness is not the nicest prospect when you can easily tuck yourself up on the sofa with warm indoor lighting.

There are so many lighting ideas for your garden decking. Low-level lighting on the underside of railings or seats will be protected from the elements and add a warm glow to the ground.

Surface or flush mounted lights on the steps will guide you through your garden even when it’s pitch black outdoors.

Fairy light strings are a lovely touch, making the space feel more magical and comforting. String them along the awning, throughout the railings, or along the backs of the seats.

 

 

Chill Out Even When It’s Chilly Out

 
These garden decking ideas will help make your space the ultimate chill-out zone. It doesn’t matter if it’s the chilliest day of the year with snow falling all around you, you can still keep cosy on your decking, protected from the elements.

If you need ideas for kitting out the rest of your garden for winter, check out this blog post.

Stewart Timber can help you with all your structural decking needs – if you have any project or product queries, contact us today!

Next in our winter garden maintenance series is how to keep your garden fence panels in tip-top shape to survive Glasgow’s rough winter snap!

Preparing your garden fence panels for the winter is a fairly straightforward task. You’ll thank yourself for being proactive come spring when you are not met with a massive fence replacement bill!

Follow these steps for the best fence treatment for this winter.

 

 

Spruce Up

 
Before you jump into applying fence preservative to your garden fence panels, they need some TLC.

If you haven’t tended to your fence for some time, it might look worse for wear. Now is the time to look for loose fixings or broken, wobbly, or rotting wood.

This step is crucial – compare your garden fence panels to a sail. When the strong Glasgow winter gales blow, the panels will catch the wind, putting immense stress on the whole structure, damaging it, particularly if it’s already weak.

Replace or repair rugged looking parts, keeping it nice and strong.

You should also give it a good scrub to remove dirt/debris. Dirt clings on to moisture which ultimately causes wood to degrade. It’s best to do this on the driest, warmest day you can possibly pin down.

Like we advise when preparing your wooden garden furniture for the winter, after cleaning the wood, let it dry completely before applying treatment.

Thinking of skipping the treatment this winter and dealing with it in the spring? Bad idea! When timber is left untreated it’s extremely exposed to the environment and it’s much more likely to rot.

 

 

Watch Out Above!

 
Prepping your garden fence panels for winter involves more than just tending to the fence itself. Don’t let your hard work be undone by tree branches overhead collapsing on your fence under the weight of snow!

Not only will falling tree limbs damage your fence, regular moisture falling from above will make your fence damp and prone to mould.

Prune overhanging plants and branches to remove this risk.

 

 

Check The Foundations

 
Moisture from above is an issue, but don’t forget that the base of your fence is just as vulnerable. Securing and waterproofing your foundations is essential. Moisture can seep up the fence posts through the ground or from surrounding debris, weakening the whole structure.

Firstly, check the stability of the fence posts. Make sure they’re straight-standing and secured in position so they withstand the near-hurricane winter winds! If you feel they need extra security, you can add extra post mix into the ground. The posts should be around 3 feet into the ground, so ensure they’re firmly in place.

Trimming grass at the base and shovelling away debris and snow will reduce the likelihood of moisture catching on to the fence.

Make sure that when you’re shovelling snow off your garden path that you don’t chuck it up against your fence panels – keep this area clear!

 

 

Fence Preservative

 
Now the structure is fully prepped, apply your fence preservative. This prolongs the life of your garden fence panels, making it water-resistant, repelling that pesky moisture!

Pressure treated fence panels have already been treated with preservative chemicals to ward off the nasty aftermath of moisture, but applying a top-up coat of fence preservative is still advised.

There are a variety of colours of preservative you can use, from clear coatings to bolder shades that will make your fence pop out amongst the white snow. Whatever you use, make sure you follow the instructions on the tin to a T for optimum effectiveness.

Preservative should be applied yearly but if you’re unsure whether your fence needs it, try a ‘splash test’. Splash water on it – if the droplets bead on the surface, then the preservative is working. If the moisture soaks into the panels, then it needs protecting.

 

 

Keep An Eye On It

 
Weather conditions might be worse than anticipated so keep an eye on your fence to make sure it’s holding up.

Keep the surrounding area clear, clean and as dry as possible. You should regularly inspect the fence for frozen precipitation and brush any off with a broom.

Your fence should now be strong and sturdy enough to last the chilly coming months! For more inspiration for winter garden maintenance, check out the rest of our blog, including our tips for insulating your garden shed.

If you’re based in or around Glasgow and have a fencing query, contact Stewart Timber today!

The sunny summer spell is long gone and the breezy autumn will soon depart too.

On the Stewart Timber blog, we have been looking at how to winter-proof your garden, starting with shed insulation.

By the time winter settles for the year, it is unlikely you’ll be putting your wooden garden furniture to use for a few months.

The furniture can’t stand the test of time in the harsh winter conditions, so it’s in your best interest to take steps to protect it.

If you have wooden garden furniture, read on to discover how you can properly store and protect it this winter.

 

 

Clean

 
Dirt clings on to moisture. Over time, the moisture in wood will cause it to decay. Clean wood dries out far better than dirty wood, so scrubbing is your first step.

Using warm, soapy water and a sponge or bristle brush, scrub the framework of your wooden garden furniture to remove remnants of dirt. You may need to use extra elbow grease if you’ve not done this for some time!

Rinse all the suds off with cold water to prevent soap residue from going stagnant over time.

Do not use a power washer in the hope of doing the job more effectively. This is much too powerful and you run into the danger of stripping the timber back.

Leave the furniture to dry naturally. Aim to clean on a windy day as this will speed up the drying process. If you don’t let it dry properly before storing, you risk moisture getting trapped and mould growing, ruining your hard work!

Fabric cushions or covers should be cleaned according to the care instructions on the label. Keep these inside your home for safe-keeping and to prevent mold and mildew.

 

 

Check-Over

 
After thoroughly cleaning and drying the furniture, quickly check it for issues.

Look for things like missing or loose screws. Brass screws are best for outdoors, so if you need to replace any, opt for these, as they don’t rust. If you use steel screws, smear Vaseline into the threads to prevent water seeping in.

 

 

Preservative

 
Your clean and dry wooden garden furniture will need to be coated in a protective preservative. This is particularly important if you have to keep it stored outdoors, rather than your shed or garage.

A coat or two of oil-based preservative will do the trick. If your furniture has to stand outside, stand the legs in washed out food or paint tins filled with preservative. It will soak into the feet, giving it extra protection.

 

 

Covers

 
You should use garden furniture covers to completely cover your furniture, whether you are storing it inside or outside. For outdoors, it’s the sole protection from the environment, but indoors, it keeps dust at bay.

The garden furniture covers should be totally dry before using them. There should be ventilation room for air to circulate in case moisture becomes trapped, allowing it to dry out. Secure it down with a heavy object.

When picking your cover, make sure it covers the furniture entirely.

 

 

Storage

 
You have a few options for storage spaces.

You can store it covered in your garden shed or garage. If you opt for this, stack or fold up the pieces of furniture to reduce the storage space required. Storing it inside a shed protects it more than outdoors, so perhaps look at our range of garden sheds!

If you need to store it outdoors, avoiding leaving the furniture, even covered, on the grass. Move it to a solid, dry spot in the garden where moisture will not soak up through the ground into the legs, regardless of whether you put preservative on it.

If you can’t avoid the grass, place solid supports under the legs to raise it off the ground – you could do this with a brick for example.. Just ensure it doesn’t come into direct contact with any moisture.

Regularly keep an eye on your furniture to make sure that they’re not affected by moisture or dirt.

 

 

Is It Time To Store Your Wooden Garden Furniture Now?

 
Have you stopped lounging in your wooden garden furniture for the year now? If so, you should be carrying out these steps to protect and store it as soon as possible.

Stewart Timber are timber specialists. For all your product queries, contact us today to see what we can do for you.