Windproof Fencing
While there is no such thing as a truly windproof fence, many products are designed to withstand strong winds, especially in areas where they are a frequent concern.
In the UK, we are all too familiar with the combination of wind and rain. Since the Met Office began naming storms in 2015, we have become more aware of the intensity and frequency of these weather events. Strong winds and storms are a constant feature of British weather, with certain areas such as coastal regions being more vulnerable to their effects.
Is Your Property in a Windy Area?
Certain parts of the UK are naturally more exposed to strong winds, including the North West and South West of England, Scotland, Wales, offshore Islands and any coastal area or higher-altitude locations. If your home is on a hill or situated in open fields, you are likely to experience stronger gusts than those in more sheltered, built-up areas that benefit from natural windbreaks, such as trees.
If you’ve lived in your home for some time, you’re probably familiar with how windy it can get. For those in newer properties, look out for these signs of a windy spot:
- Damaged or leaning trees
- Broken or weakened fences
- Plants and flowers that appear battered
- A garden littered with twigs and branches
By identifying these signs, you can better prepare your property for the challenges posed by wind.
Windproof Fence Panels
When designing a wind-resistant fence, the quality and construction of the fence panels are critical. Investing in well-framed, durable panels with strong fixings will ensure your fence can endure harsh weather conditions for years to come.
Framed Panels for Strength
A robust frame is the backbone of a windproof fence panel. Look for panels that are well-constructed with thick, sturdy frames capable of withstanding the strain of high winds. A framed panel not only provides structural integrity but also helps maintain the panel’s shape and durability over time.High-Quality Fixings
Using strong, reliable fixings is essential for maintaining the durability of your panels. Stainless steel screws are an excellent choice because they are resistant to rust and corrosion, even in wet or coastal environments. Mini screws for securing pales or slats are ideal, as they provide a firm hold while being less prone to loosening over time.Prioritise Long Treatment Guarantees
Look for fence panels that come with long treatment guarantees—ideally more than 15 years with 25 years being best. Panels treated with high-quality processes are far more resistant to, insect damage, and decay, ensuring they remain solid and functional for the long term. Without proper treatment, even the most robustly constructed panels will eventually weaken and fall apart, regardless of their frame or fixings.The importance of Rot-Resistance
No matter how well a panel is framed, or fixed, untreated or poorly treated wood will deteriorate over time. Rot significantly compromises the structural integrity of the panel, making it vulnerable to breaking apart in strong winds. Investing in properly treated timber not only saves money in the long run but also ensures your fence remains wind resistant.The Long-Term Value of Quality Panels
While premium panels may come with a higher upfront cost, they are a worthwhile investment. Cheaper panels that rot or break after a few years will need replacing, leading to higher costs over time. By choosing well-framed, treated panels with reliable fixings, you ensure your fence stands strong for years, even in challenging weather.Windproof Fence Designs
Windproof fencing designs are increasingly essential, particularly in regions that experience frequent, strong winds. While it's challenging to create a fence that is 100% windproof, certain styles and materials offer more resilience, providing greater protection without compromising on aesthetic appeal. When designing or selecting a fence for windy conditions, it's important to consider more than just the material—design and structure play a crucial role in wind resistance.Hit-and-Miss Fencing Designs
Hit-and-miss fencing is one of the most popular wind-friendly options, offering a balance of functionality and visual appeal. This design features alternating vertical slats, with one side having a slat and the other side a gap, creating the characteristic "hit-and-miss" effect. The clever arrangement allows for both wind flow and privacy, making it a versatile choice for gardens and outdoor spaces.
Wind Resistance with Privacy:
The alternating slats in hit-and-miss fencing allow wind to pass through in multiple directions. With gaps on both sides, the wind can flow freely, reducing the pressure on the fence and minimising the risk of structural damage. This is particularly beneficial in areas where winds shift direction frequently, as the design ensures the fence remains stable regardless of changing wind patterns. Additionally, the alternating slats help maintain a level of privacy by obscuring the view from both sides, offering a sense of enclosure without blocking airflow.
By striking the right balance between airflow and privacy, hit-and-miss fencing is an ideal solution for those looking to protect their garden from strong winds while maintaining a comfortable, private outdoor space.
Slatted and Venetian Fence Styles
Slatted and Venetian fences are ideal for windy areas because their open design allows wind to flow straight through, reducing pressure and preventing damage. The gaps between the slats ensure the fence does not act as a windbreaker, which is important in areas prone to strong gusts.
Both styles allow air to pass through, making them much more resilient to wind compared to solid fences. This reduces the risk of bending, warping, or collapse during gusty weather.
The downside, however, is that these fences offer limited privacy. The gaps between slats allow visibility, which may not be suitable for those seeking seclusion in their garden.
To combat this, there are hit-and-miss versions of slatted fences, where slats alternate on both sides, giving better privacy while still allowing the wind to flow through. These provide a nice balance of airflow and seclusion, making them a popular choice for those who want both function and some level of privacy.
Shorter Fences
Shorter fences are better for areas prone to strong winds as they are less likely to catch the wind and cause damage. However, these often do not provide much privacy. Designs like wooden palisade, criss cross styles, or Mitre fencing are great options for wind resistance and durability. That said, a high-quality, solid fence, even if shorter, can still stand up to the elements while offering more protection against the wind.
We have installed numerous fences over the years and highly recommend Jacksons wooden fence panels, as they truly tick all the boxes. Their Hit and Miss designs, in particular, stand out for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
Windproof Fence Posts
The key to a durable, wind-resistant fence lies in the posts. Heavy-duty, overlength fence posts are essential for providing the necessary strength and stability to withstand high winds. Properly selected and installed posts can make a significant difference in your fence's performance during storms.
Use Wooden Posts with Slots
Wooden posts with integrated slots for securing fence panels are an excellent choice but make sure they have long guarantees and are not going to rot. By screwing the panels directly to the posts, you eliminate the need for brackets, which can often become a weak point. This design ensures a more robust connection, as the panels are firmly anchored to the posts. If a post fails, this setup allows the remaining structure to offer some support to the damaged section, reducing the risk of the entire fence collapsing. Read our blog on the importance of attaching panels to posts
Avoid Concrete Posts
While concrete posts are commonly used, they come with several drawbacks. One major issue is that fence panels can be lifted out of concrete posts by strong winds, leaving your fence vulnerable. Additionally, during windy conditions, the constant rattling noise of panels in concrete posts can be both irritating and a sign of potential instability. Over time, this movement can cause wear and tear, weakening the overall structure of the panels and also the posts.
Invest in Overlength Posts
Using longer posts that extend deeper into the ground provides added stability. Deeper post installation, combined with a strong concrete foundation, ensures that your fence can better resist lateral forces from high winds. This extra depth also helps to distribute stress more evenly, reducing the likelihood of leaning or tipping. We will ouch on installation next.
Wind-Resistant Fence Installation
Creating a fence that can withstand strong winds is not just about choosing the right materials and design, it also hinges on proper installation.
Deep Fence Post Holes
The depth and width of the post holes play a crucial role in ensuring your fence’s stability. Aim for holes that are at least 600mm deep and slightly wider than the post itself. This depth provides a solid foundation to keep your fence posts firmly anchored.
Strong Concrete Foundations
A wider, deeper hole allows for more concrete or post-mix, which is critical for holding the posts upright and ensuring their durability. The stronger the base, the better the fence can withstand high winds and shifting soil. Do not skimp on this step—it's the backbone of a reliable, wind-resistant fence.
By focusing on these installation details, you can significantly enhance the strength and longevity of your fence, even in challenging weather conditions. Let me know if you would like to refine this further!
Windproof Gates
Do not overlook gates when preparing for windy conditions. Just like fences, gates need to be sturdy, well-designed, and securely installed to withstand strong gusts and prevent damage or displacement. This is especially important in alleys, where garden gates are often positioned, as these spaces can act as wind tunnels, amplifying the force of the wind. Make note of the following
Gate Posts and Wall Plates
Robust gate posts or wall plates are essential for long-term durability. Posts should be buried deep enough in the ground and secured with plenty of concrete to withstand pressure. For wall plates, ensure they are attached with heavy-duty bolts to a solid, stable structure. Additionally, inspect the wall to confirm it is strong enough to support the gate and resist stress over time. Cutting corners here can compromise the entire installation.
Latches and Locks
Invest in high-quality latches and locks to keep your gate secure. Even if you don’t usually lock your gate, a slide bolt is a smart addition. On particularly windy days, locking the gate will prevent it from swinging open and causing damage. Make sure the ring latch is properly adjusted so that if the gate swings shut, it automatically locks to prevent further movement.
Adjustable Hinges
If the gate shifts due to wind or natural movement, adjustable hinges are a valuable feature to include in your installation. They allow for precise adjustments, ensuring the gate continues to open and close smoothly over time. This is particularly important for wooden garden gates, which are naturally prone to swelling, shrinking, or slight warping due to weather changes. We highly recommend opting for adjustable hinges to maintain long-term functionality and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
Gate Design
Choose a gate design that strikes a balance between privacy and wind resistance. A "hit-and-miss" design, for example, provides privacy while allowing wind to pass through, reducing the strain on the gate and its fittings.
By following these steps, you can enhance your gate’s resilience to harsh weather conditions and ensure it remains secure and functional for years to come.
We highly recommend Jacksons Wooden Garden Gates, as they come with all the above features as standard. With their excellent designs and a 25-year guarantee, they’re a reliable choice for long-lasting quality.
Wind proofing a fence the best you can
While no fence can be entirely windproof, selecting the right design, using premium materials, and ensuring professional installation can greatly enhance its resilience. A well-built wind-resistant fence not only safeguards your property but also minimises the need for ongoing repairs, providing peace of mind during stormy weather. Over time, investing in a high-quality fence is often more cost-effective than repeatedly repairing a cheaper alternative. Additionally, consider opting for fences that don’t require staining—read more about this in our blog: Why Do Fence Panels Need Staining?