✓Close Board Fencing
- Built on-site, custom-fitted
- Individual boards — won't blow out
- Stronger wind resistance
- 15–20+ year lifespan
- Higher quality appearance
- Repaired board-by-board
- Higher cost (£180–250/section)
- Slower to install
Panel Fencing
- Pre-made panels — quick install
- Cheaper upfront (£130–180/section)
- Wide variety of styles
- Easy DIY replacement
- Panels can blow out in storms
- Weak at panel joins
- 10–15 year lifespan
- Less wind resistance
What Is Close Board Fencing?
Close board fencing — also known as feather-edge fencing — is constructed on-site by nailing individual overlapping feather-edge boards vertically onto horizontal arris rails attached to fence posts. Unlike pre-made panel fencing, every close-board fence is custom-built to your exact measurements.
The key difference is structural: each board slightly overlaps the next, creating a solid, flexible barrier. In strong winds, individual boards can flex slightly rather than acting as one large rigid sail — which is exactly why panel fencing blows out and close board doesn't.
What Is Panel Fencing?
Panel fencing uses factory-made panels — typically 6ft wide — that slot or fix between posts. The most common types in Lancashire are waney-lap and close-board panels. Panels are quicker and cheaper to install, making them popular for budget-conscious homeowners.
The limitation is rigidity. Whole panels act as wind sails, putting enormous stress on posts and panel frames — which is why panels blow out so frequently in Lancashire storms.
Cost Comparison — Lancashire 2025
| Factor | Close Board | Panel (Waney Lap) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per 6ft section | £180–250 | £130–180 |
| Lifespan (treated) | 15–20+ years | 10–15 years |
| Wind resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Storm damage risk | Low | High |
| Privacy level | 100% solid | 95% (slight gaps) |
| Installation time | Slower | Faster |
| Repair method | Replace individual boards | Replace whole panel |
| Best for | Exposed gardens, long-term | Sheltered gardens, budget |
The Verdict — Which Should You Choose?
Choose Close Board if:
- Your garden is exposed to wind
- You want a fence to last 20+ years
- You're near moorland or elevated ground
- Privacy is a priority
- You've had panel fencing blow out before
- You want the best long-term value
Panel fencing is fine if:
- Your garden is sheltered on all sides
- Budget is the primary concern
- Short-term solution needed
- You're happy with 10–12 year lifespan
- The location is low-wind
Our honest advice: for most Lancashire gardens, the extra £30–70 per section for close-board is excellent value compared to replacing blown-out panels every few years. We always recommend close-board for exposed or moorland-adjacent properties.
FAQs
What is close board fencing?
Close board (feather edge) fencing is built on-site with individual overlapping boards nailed to arris rails. It's stronger and longer-lasting than pre-made panel fencing.
Is close board stronger than panel fencing?
Yes — significantly. Individual boards flex in wind rather than acting as one rigid sail. Close-board is much more wind-resistant.
How much more expensive is close board?
Close board costs £180–250/section vs £130–180 for waney lap panels. The extra cost is offset by 5–10 years extra lifespan and far fewer storm repairs.
Which is better for a windy Lancashire garden?
Close board feather edge fencing on concrete posts. Panel fencing is much more vulnerable to being blown out in Lancashire storms.
Not Sure Which to Choose?
Call Chris at Hulme Fencing for honest, no-obligation advice. We'll assess your garden and recommend the right fence for your situation and budget.