What is Featheredge Fencing also known as?

– Closeboard Fencing, Featherboard Fencing, Feather Edge Fencing, Vertical Fencing

What are the benefits of Featheredge Fencing?

– Using featheredge components to complete a run of fencing is the superior fencing solution due to it’s long-lasting strength and versatility. It’s particularly ideal for gardens/outdoor areas that are uneven, run up/down hill and are unsuitable for panels.

What components do I need for a Featheredge Fence?

– Fence Posts, Post Mix, Gravel Boards, Fence Rails, Featheredge Boards, Nails, Screws, Capping (optional), Counter Rail (optional)

How many Featheredge Boards do I need?

– When using the standard 125mm wide boards, you’ll need ten per metre allowing for a 25mm (1″) overlap

What length Featheredge Boards do I need?

– This depends on the total height desired, allowing for the Gravel Boards your Featheredge will need to be 150mm (6″) less than the overall height. For example for a 1.8m (6′) overall height you’ll need 1.65m (5’6″) boards to allow for the 150mm (6″) Gravel Boards.

What distance should there be between the Fence Posts?

– We recommend 1.8m-2.4m (6′-8′) as it maximises the overall strength of the fence.

How much Post Mix do I need?

– We recommend using 2 bags per post

How many Fence Rails should I use?

– You’ll need 2 rails for fences up to 1.2m (4′) high & 3 rails for fences over 1.2m (4′) high.

How many nails & screws will I need?

– You’ll need one nail per featheredge board on each rail & two screws per rail on each post

What finish is your picket fencing?

– We stock smooth planed (Henley) picket fencing and rough sawn (Newbury) picket fencing.

Do you sell individual picket fencing components?

– Yes! View our full range of picket fencing (panels, pales and rails) here

How wide are your picket panels?

– They’re all 1.8m (6′) wide and available at 0.9m (3′) & 1.2m (4′) hight

What size are the pales?

– 75mm x 22mm (3″ x 1″)

Can you supply matching gates?

– Yes! See our Henley Gate and Newbury Gate for more information, both are held in stock.

Do you offer an install service?

– Yes! We offer a comprehensive installation service accross our entire product range, get in touch for a free site visit and no-obligation quote. 

How deep into  the ground should my fence posts be?

– We recommend 600mm (2ft) into the ground as standard. As a general rule the depth should be equal to one third of the above ground height.

How do I fix Fence Panels to posts?

– You can either screw the panel framing directly to the sides of the posts or use panel fixing clips by attaching the clip to the post then sliding the panel into the clip and securing.

How do I attach fencing to the side of my property?

– Use Thunderbolts to attach a 100mm x 47mm (4″ x 2″) wall plate to the wall and erect your fence as usual.

Can I cut fence panels to size?

– Whilst it is possible in some cases, we don’t usually recommend this as it does compromise the structure and durability of the panels. For an unequal run of fencing it’s best to complete it with the components where possibe.

What are DuraPost products made from?

– Made in the UK from galvanised steel

What is the lifespan of DuraPost compared to timber fencing?

– Traditional pressure-treated tiimber has an average 10-15 year life expencancy whereas the DuraPost range won’t rot, warp or crack so can last up to and beyond 25 years.

Is there any guarantee for the DuraPost range?

– Yes for your  peace of mind it’s guaranteed against structural failure due to corrosion for up to 25 years suubject too normal maintenance and proper use.

What colours do you stock?

– We hold the Anthracite Grey & Olive Green in stock, the other finishes are available to order-in

Is it recyclable?

– Yes, for today’s homeowners, fencing contractors, landscape designers and developers, DuraPost is the responsible choice. Made from 50% recycled steel, DuraPost is 100% recyclable at its end-of-life.

Can I use DuraPost with Featheredge Fencing?

– Yes, DuraPost is compatible with virtually alll types of fenicng, see a guide for installation here

What products are in your concrete fencing range?
– We stock traditional Wet Cast, Strongcast & Strongcast Ultra

What’s the difference between the Wet Cast, Strongcast & Strongcast Ultra?

– Wet Cast posts are the traditional heavier duty range with a pyramid at one end and a bobble top at the other, in a smooth pale grey finish.

– Strongcast posts are a semi-dry mix, steel reinforced product with a pointed top and slightly textured grey finish. Middle weight option.

– Strongcast Ultra posts are a dry mix product with a pointed top and pale grey finish, they offer the benefits of the original Strongcast in a lighter, easier to handle post. The lightest weight option.

Can I paint my concrete posts?

– Yes with the correct Masonry specific paint the posts can be painted to match the colour and style of your garden.

Why choose concrete over timber?

– If you’re looking for a fencing solution that will last for years to come, resist high winds and require little to no maintenance then concrete fencing will do the trick. It’s also worth looking at our range of steel fencing for similar longevity in a much more contemporary finish.

Are your fencing products supplied treated?

– All of our fencing timber is pressure treated and our ground contact timber is UC4 treated

Do I need to re-treat my fence?

– We recommend timber fencing is re-treated annually to maximise it’s lifespan. If you’re unsure, a sign it needs to be treated is when water starts to soak in rather than bead up on the surface of the fence.

How do I prepare my fence for re-treating?

– First make sure it’s clean (you don’t want to seal in any dirt, grime or mould). You can use a pressure-washer for this if the fence is sturdy enough and ensure any remaining mould or dirt is scrubbed off using Barrettine Mould & Mildew Cleaner or  a watered bleach solution.https://charltonstimberstore.com/product/barrettine-mould-mildew-cleaner/

– Now is a great opportunity to carry out any repairs needed or replace any components that are beyond saving.

– Once your fence is nice and clean and totally try it’s ready for treating. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying your chosen treatment but here are some tips to consider first:

1. Use a clear treatment to maintain the existing colour of the fence, or to allow the timber to fade naturally to a silver-grey finish. Use a tinted stain for a variety of natural-looking wood finishes whilst getting protection from the elements. 

2. Whether you’re using a brush, roller or paint sprayer for application you will at least need a paint brush for the harder to reach places and areas that need a more careful application.

3. If you’re opting for a coloured stain be sure to try a small amount first in a discreet location to make sure it’ll give you the desired finish.

4. Apply the product in the same direction as the grain starting at the top working your way down to avoid drip marks.

See our full range of treatments here.

How many decking boards do I need?

– Firstly you need to calculate the total area in m2 (measure the length and width and follow the formula: Length x Width = Area in m2)

– Next you need to calculate the m2 of the desired deckboard (again this is Length x Width)

– Then follow the formula: Total Area (m2) ÷ Area of Deckboard (m2) = Quantity needed

Example: The area I want to deck is 3.6m L x 3.6m W.

The deckboard I am using is 3.6m x 138mm (the width will change to 143mm in the calculations as we must add 5mm for expansion gap)

The area to be decked in m2 is 3.6 x 3.6 = 12.96m2

The area of the deckboard is 3.6 x 0.143 = 0.52m2

12.96 ÷ 0.52 = 24.92

The number of deckboards I need is 25.

Which decking is suitable for me?

-We offer 4 types of Deck Boards; Budget, Standard , Heavy Duty and Anti-Slip so you may be unsure as to which is most suitable for you.

– Budget Deck Boards are not suitable for areas that will be walked on, they’re for cosmetic purposes only and are best used as fascias or cladding.

– Standard Deck Boards are very versatile and suitable for most areas, especially domestic so these are the best cost effective option.

– Heavy Duty Deck Boards are exactly that and best suited for commercial areas (i.e. pub gardens etc.) although they can be used domestically, it’s probably not necessary or cost effective.

– Anti-Slip Deck Boards are the ideal solution to get the ever-popular decking area you desire in a highly effective anti-slip finish to make it a safer environment for all, especially children and pets.

Are the deck boards treated?

– Yes all of our quality deck boards are machined from kiln dried joinery grade pine and pressure treated with TANALITH E wood preservative to ensure a long and low maintenance service life. Quality assured by The Timber Decking and Cladding Association.

How long will my decking last?

– With the proper maintenance timber decking has an average life span of 10-15 years.

What is your Composite Decking made of?

– It’s made completely from recycled plastics and FSC 100% hardwood flour which combine to produce a high quality finished product that outperforms traditional treated timber.

What are the benefits of Composite Decking?

– It’s the leading ethical, long-lasting and low maintenance alternative to timber decking. Not to mention the contemporary, stylish finish.

Does it come with any warranty?

– The HD Dual Deck®  has a 25 year residential warranty and the HD XS Deck®  has a 10 year residential warranty from the date of purchase

What’s the difference between the HD Dual Deck® and the HD XS Deck®?

– HD Dual Deck features a traditional wood grain finish thanks to it’s True Grain Colour System™ which is a blend of special pigmentation that replicates the subtle variation and depth of tones seen in natural timber – and ensures no two boards are the same colour. Whereas HD XS has a thin and wide groove design on either side which is closer to typical decking board style design.

– Most importantly, HD Dual Deck is a capped composite decking and the HD XS Deck is uncapped. The capping provides increased durability and resistance to scratches, which can be commonplace with timber alternatives. It also helps to avoid general wear and tear and although more expensive than uncapped, it’s likely to last longer. The extra capping on the composite will also provide useful UV inhibitors and become more durable to sunlight – something that homeowners looking to build decks in direct sunlight will want to consider.

– Because of it’s capping, HD Dual Deck is a longer-lasting investment and for those on a budget the HD XS Deck is a great option with the acceptance that costs may be incurred on cleaning and maintenance from time to time. Either way, both forms of composite require far less maintenance than timber alternatives.

Do you have any samples?

– Yes we have handy sample packs for each style of composite decking available in store, and a dedicated display area in our showroom to show the colours, fixings and accessories available.

Which joists should I use for decking?

We have a few variations of joists that have different uses and it’s important to know which are right for you.

– Pressure Treated Sawn Joists

• UC4 treated for ground-contact use.

• Part of our LongLast range.

• Most suitable for ground level decking areas.

– C16/24 Planed Joists

• Kiln-dried and UC3 pressure treated for above ground use.

• C16/C24 Construction Grade.

• Most suitable for raised decking and other above ground structures, not recommended for ground contact.

– UC4 Redwood Joists

• Kiln-dried and UC4 treated for ground-contact use.

• Part of our LongLast range.

• C24 Construction Grade.

• Suitable for ground level or raised decking and other outdoor structures.

When building the framing, how far apart should the joists be?

– A maximum of 450mm. Our full guide on installing decking, including the framework, can be found below in our collection of ‘How-to Guides’.

How often to I need to treat my decking?

For timber decking, it’s recommended to re-treat it every year to optimise longevity of the boards. If you plan on treating an older deck surface, it’s very important to either clean or restore your surface before treatment. Attempting to apply product to a used, dirty deck will not be effective. After cleaning, leave enough time for the surface to dry thoroughly before getting started.

How often should I clean my decking?

We recommend that you clean your deck at least twice a year, ideally in warm & dry weather conditions. This will prevent any build-up of organic matter & dirt from damaging your deck. If you would like to wash it more often, it won’t do any harm, but it’s definitely not essential.

How can I remove stains or discolouration?

Common causes of discolouration include sunlight exposure, dirt, mildew & stains. After exposure to UV rays & outdoor weather conditions, many decks will fade and experience some level of discolouration.

Most of the time, a simple brush-down with decking cleaner will remove any offending stains. Most products will use a bleach base which will help to rid your deck of mildew and its darkening effect. If this doesn’t go far enough, you will likely need to consider either acid-washing the surface, or restoring your deck

How can I maintain HS XS Deck?
Scratching—Uncapped decking is more susceptible to scratching than capped decking, so take care with furniture, pets, children, toys, ornaments, shoes or anything else that could abrade the surface. Smaller scratches can be sanded out or patched with epoxy filler. Rubber or felt feet can be added to avoid unnecessary scratching. However, for large cracks or deeper unsightly damage that cannot be as easily disguised, consider replacing the entire board. When in doubt, the team at Composite Prime is on hand to deal with any queries related to maintenance.
Moisture—Prevent moisture collecting on the decking, as it can cause staining and create an ideal environment for algal or fungal growth. If you don’t fancy cultivating a mushroom ring, watch out for moisture-inviting culprits like downpipes, plant pots, mulch planters, hot tubs and furniture. Keep the area dry by brushing off excess moisture after rainfall or cleaning, ensuring there is at least a six-inch ventilation gap under the deck and eliminating any gunk that builds up in and around the boards. If the spores do take up residence, apply an organic patio cleaner such as Algon or a sodium percarbonate oxygen activated bleach, scrub with a thick bristle brush then rinse.
Staining—Pesky stains like berries from bushes near the deck or spilt food and drinks can make the boards look messy and lacklustre. Acting fast after the spill, use an eco-friendly sodium percarbonate bleach in small amounts with hot water and rub the area lightly.

How can I maintain HD Dual Deck?

– For those concerned about the elements’ effect, capped decking is the way to go for low-maintenance decking, for which scratches and stains are less of a concern. However, even this sturdy composite isn’t immune to wear and tear if neglected, and the same rules apply: keep the deck dry and free of debris as far as possible. Clean your deck of dirt and spills with mild soap or deck cleaner with water, spraying the mixture onto the deck, scrubbing the surface with a soft brush and allowing it to fully dry.

Can I pressure wash my decking?

Pressure washing is satisfying stuff: there’s even a whole Instagram pages dedicated to watching people transform their patios, decks, sheds and fences from algal green to clean and bright again. However, don’t forget that can be very damaging to even composite decking if used wrongly. Here are some tips:

• Start spraying on the lowest setting. A spray that’s too powerful can etch, splinter and erode the deck, leaving it open to further damage from abrasion, sunlight and fungus.

• Test the pressure on an inconspicuous area first and increase the pressure incrementally, but do not go above 1,200psi.

• Use a fan tip to ensure even application of water.

• Start at the house and move methodically outwards.

• Don’t try to use water for grease patches, use a grease and oil stain remover instead.

• Sand away any splinters afterwards.

• Ensure the deck has enough light and ventilation to dry quickly afterwards, preventing algae and fungus growth.

• Use a professional service if you do not own your own washer: look for trusted companies with strong reviews and lots of industry experience.

What are the differences between your mulches?

– We Stock Melcourt’s Ornamental, Spruce Ornamental and Play bark, as well as their Topsoil and Top Grow Compost. 

What size bags are the Mulches available in?

– We sell them in both 1m3 dumpy bags and 60litre bags.

What is the difference between the Playbark and Ornamental Bark?

– The play bark is a lot chunkier in appearance and is European standard and suitable for public places. The ornamental bark is ideal for flower beds as it will break down into a mulch.

By what quantities do you sell the Woodchips?

– We sell them in tonne loose loads that can be tipped off with our Pick Up truck, 1m3 dumpy builders bags or we have smaller bags that are about 35litres.

How do I work out the quantity I need?

– Try this handy gravel calculator to help make sure you don’t order too much, or too little!

What size bags do you sell?

– We supply a fantastic variety of aggregates & decorative stone in either bulk bags or in small 25kg pre-packed bags. We also offer a loose option for some types.

Why can’t I order turf online?

– Turf is cut to order so we can’t hold it in stock, order in-store or over the phone.

How quickly can I get it after ordering?

– Orders placed on or before Tuesdays are usually available from the Thursday of the same week. We do have a minimum order amount so if that isn’t reached, your order will roll over to the following week.

What quantity is it supplied in?

– 1m² rolls

What fixings should I use to install cladding?

– Always use Stainless Steel fixings and we recommend either Ring Shank Nails or Tongue-Tite Screws 

What’s the difference between Ring Shank Nails and Tongue-Tite Screws?

– Ring Shank Nails:

Do I need to treat my cladding?

– If it’s Pressure Treated Softwood cladding then yes we recommend re-treating to maximise longevity, for the other species we offer further treatment is not required other than to prevent the colour fading if preferred.

How often should I treat my cladding?

– If treatment is required we recommend this to be done annually.

If left untreated, what colour will the cladding fade to?

– It will vary slightly for each species but generally a silvery-grey colour.

How do I clean my cladding?

– Using a pressure washer is a great way to clean exterior cladding without damaging the treatment, be sure to test is on a small area first to ensure the pressure isn’t too high. Alternatively a brush and wood cleaner can be used.