Using Fences to Reduce Wind in Your Garden

Homeowners often look for a "windproof fence" to prevent damage in strong winds. However, fences typically blow down due to poor design, cheap materials, or rotting posts. If you want to read about windproof fences, you can here.

However, with the right design, strong materials with long guarantees, and proper installation, a fence can not only withstand strong winds but also help reduce wind speed and turbulence in your garden or around your property (basically creating a large wind break).

When fences fail in high winds, it’s usually due to poor-quality materials, a weak design, rotted timber, or inadequate foundations. By investing in a well-constructed fence, you can create a more sheltered outdoor space while ensuring the structure remains stable in harsh weather conditions.

Why Reduce Wind with a Fence?

There are many scenarios where reducing wind is beneficial:

• Properties near open fields often experience strong winds with no natural barriers.
• Homes in elevated or coastal locations are frequently exposed to high winds.
• Narrow alleyways between buildings can create wind tunnels that funnel gusts through gardens.

You might want to create a sheltered suntrap for relaxing, protect delicate plants in a specific area of your garden, reduce a wind tunnel down and alley or simply reduce wind exposure, especially if your property is the first obstacle it encounters after crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

While no fence will stop wind completely, the right fencing solution can significantly reduce wind speed and create a calmer environment sheltered environment.

Key Considerations for Wind-Reducing Fences

1. Understanding Wind Direction and Wind Tunnels

Before installing a fence, it’s essential to determine the most common prevailing wind direction and identify any wind tunnels that amplify gusts. This helps in positioning the fence for maximum effectiveness.

2. Choosing the Right Fence Design

A solid, well-framed fence is essential for wind resistance and wind reduction. Consider the following design elements:

Strong panels - Look for framed panels made with thick boards, securely attached with stainless steel fixings. Avoid weak, flimsy panels that may warp or break.

No gaps - A solid fence without gaps will help block and redirect wind more effectively than a slatted design.

Durable, strong posts - Use 120mm slotted posts that allow panels to be securely screwed in place (Jacksons are out go to choice with their heavy duty wooden posts). This prevents movement and strengthens the overall structure. Read more on our blog on 'The Importance of Screwing Panels to Fence Posts'.  Make sure they have a long guarantee and will not rot. Do not use concrete posts, they will rattle and sometimes fly out in strong wind. Metal posts are relatively new to the market and have been said to bend in high winds at ground level. 

Adequate height - A fence needs to be tall enough to break up the wind’s force. Typically, a height of at least 1.8m (6ft) is recommended.  Remember anything over 2m high needs planning permission.

3. Acoustic Fencing for Maximum Wind Reduction

For superior wind resistance, acoustic fencing is an excellent option. Go for higher quality acoustic fences and these fences feature:

Tuning fork posts - A strong, secure post design with no gaps.

Metal support posts - On taller fences, additional metal posts provide extra strength.

Dense, solid structure - Designed to reduce noise, these fences have no gaps at all also work well to block wind.

Even though they are strong and used in commercial settings, they are still a good looking fence. Read our blog on 'What is an Acoustic Fence?'. An example of an acoustic fence in a garden can be found below.  

4. Secure Fence Foundations

A fence is only as strong as its foundations. To ensure stability:

Deep post holes - At least 600mm deep (or more for exposed areas) with concrete or Postcrete for added strength.

Firm ground conditions - Avoid installing fences in marshy or unstable soil, as the movement of the ground can weaken the structure over time.

5. Installing a Wind-Resistant Gates

If your fence includes a gate, securing it properly is crucial:

Strong Posts - Posts that are built for the job. Also make sure they have long guarantees and will not rot.

Use wall plate - Attach the gate securely to a wall using a wall plate.  Use long, strong bolts.

Extra reinforcement - A double gate should have additional sliding bolts and a drop bolt to prevent movement in strong winds.

Adjustable Hinges - Remember to use a gate with adjustable hinges.  If the gate does move then the can be easily fixed without having to remove the hinges completely.  Jacksons wooden garden gates are supplied with these as standard.

An example of a strong Featheredge double gate that has been installed to reduced wind gusts down the side of a house (and hide storage down the side of the house).

While no fence can eliminate wind entirely, a well-designed, strong, and properly installed fence in the correct position and of a good height can significantly reduce its the winds impact. By choosing the right materials, ensuring a solid foundation, and paying attention to wind direction, you can create a more sheltered and enjoyable outdoor space while keeping your fence standing strong in all conditions.