There have been many surveys conducted over the years and the general consensus is that a well maintained garden with quality fencing could increase the value of a property by up to 20%. We look at the things that appeal to potential buyers and the types of fencing available to homeowners.
How a fence adds value to your home
- Young families and pet owners will appreciate a garden that is secure and contained when viewing potential properties.
- A boundary fence can offer privacy from overlooking neighbours.
- A fence can help with noise reduction from nearby roads and railways.
- An appropriate fence, for example at the front of a property, that is in keeping with the style of the property and the immediate area, will add kerb appeal and make the property more attractive.
- Well chosen boundary fencing defines a garden and can offer a glimpse into a lifestyle that will attract buyers, who will see the potential in an outdoor space.
Types of timber fencing
Timber fencing offers a wide choice and variety of styles and there is timber fencing to suit every purpose. The most basic type of timber fencing consists of vertical timber fence posts with timber fence panels or rails attached to the posts. Concrete fence posts are also available for use with fence panels and gravel boards can be added in either timber or concrete too.
Timber fence panels
With a choice of traditional or decorative, there are fence panels to suit every taste. Available in heights up to 6’, fence panels require no planning permission (in the UK, any fence over 2 metres in height requires relevant permissions).
Traditional timber fence panels
Waney lap fence panels are recommended for domestic homes, offering the same privacy as a closeboard fence panel but at a more cost effective price point. At Witham Timber, our waney lap fence panels are constructed onsite from overlapping, horizontal slats.
Feather edge boards, also referred to as closeboards, are solid, strong panels, able to withstand strong winds. Manufactured onsite at Witham Timber, the pressure treated panels give complete privacy and are available in a standard 6’ width and a choice of heights.
Decorative fence panels
For maximum aesthetic appeal and to add a showstopper statement boundary to any garden, decorative fence panels are perfect. Offered as double-sided panels so both neighbours have an appealing outlook, the panels feature curved or flat top designs, both with or without trellis.
Other timber fencing
There are other types of timber fencing, many of which are suitable as fences for front gardens. These include picket fencing, which can be bought as ready made panels or as individual pickets for DIY-ers. Post and rail fencing is also suitable for front gardens as it has an open aspect, often favoured as boundary fencing in rural environments where livestock and horses are contained.
Does a fence always increase property value?
The short answer is no, a fence doesn’t automatically add value to a property. Indeed, a poorly installed fence or a neglected fence in need of repair and maintenance will have the opposite effect and may reduce the value of a property.
Timber fencing from Witham Timber
To ensure that your fence will help to increase the value of your home, always buy quality fencing materials from reputable sources you can trust. Witham Timber has over 240 years’ experience in the provision of quality garden timber supplies to the domestic and commercial markets, and we always have a wide choice in stock. Our experienced sales team is available via email at sales@withamtimber.co.uk or phone on 01205 359188 and the fencing section of our blog is full of helpful articles too.