Feather Edge Fencing: Installation and Specification Guide

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What materials are needed for feather edge fencing?

The exact materials will depend on the height, length and position of the fence, but most feather edge fencing projects need a similar set of core components. Here is a list of the most common materials you’ll need:

Feather edge boards

Feather edge boards form the main face of the fence. They are usually fixed vertically and overlapped to create a solid finish. When specifying feather edge boards, contractors should consider the board height, width, thickness, timber treatment and required overlap.

Treated timber boards are usually preferred for outdoor and garden projects because they offer better resistance against moisture, decay and weather exposure.

Fence posts

Fence posts provide the main structural support for the fence. These may be timber or concrete, depending on the project requirements or the customer’s preference.

Timber posts are often chosen for a consistent timber finish, while concrete posts can provide added durability and resistance to rot at ground level. Post spacing should be planned carefully, particularly for taller fences or exposed sites where wind load may be higher.

Rails

Horizontal rails support the feather edge boards and help keep the fence stable. Taller fences normally need additional rails to reduce movement and provide enough fixing points for the boards.

Gravel boards

Gravel boards sit at the base of the fence and help protect the feather edge boards from direct contact with the ground. This can reduce moisture exposure and help extend the life of the fencing.

Tools

Contractors will usually need a mix of hand tools and power tools for measuring, cutting, fixing and setting out the fence. This may include a tape measure, spirit level, string line, saw, drill or nail gun, and suitable PPE. All of this can be found on our tools and workwear page. 

How many feather edge boards do I need?

Working out how many feather edge boards you need depends on the length of the fence, the width of each board and the planned overlap.

As a general rule, contractors should not calculate using the full board width, because part of each board will sit behind the next one. The usable width is the visible face of the board after the overlap has been allowed for.

For example, if a board is 125mm wide and the overlap is around 25mm, the visible coverage would be roughly 100mm per board. That means around 10 boards are needed per metre, before allowing for cuts, waste or adjustments.

A feather edge fence calculator can be useful at the planning stage, but contractors should always check the figures against the actual board size and installation method being used.

When estimating materials, it is worth allowing extra boards for:

• Cutting around changes in level

• Damaged or split boards

• Corners and awkward sections

• Future repairs

• Slight variations in overlap

This helps reduce delays on site and avoids running short during installation.

How to specify feather edge fencing for a project

Before materials are ordered, the full fence run should be measured and checked. This includes the total length, finished height, changes in level, access points and any corners or returns.

Contractors should also consider the site conditions. A fence in a sheltered garden may not need the same specification as one installed in an exposed or open location. Taller fences, long straight runs and sites exposed to strong winds may need stronger posts, closer support and careful fixing.

Key points to check include:

• Fence height: Make sure the chosen board length, post length and rail layout suit the required height.

• Post depth: Posts need to be set deep enough to support the fence properly.

• Ground conditions: Soft, uneven or sloping ground may require extra preparation.

• Timber treatment: Treated timber helps improve durability for outdoor use.

• Fixing choice: Use suitable external-grade fixings to reduce corrosion.

• Access: Make sure materials, tools and waste can be moved safely around the site.

• Finish: Consider whether capping rails, gravel boards or additional treatments are required.

It is also worth checking any height restrictions or boundary requirements before work begins, particularly on front gardens, shared boundaries or commercial sites.

How to install feather edge fencing

Installation methods may vary depending on the project, but most feather edge fencing follows the same basic process as below.

1. Set out the fence line

Start by marking the fence line using a string line. This helps keep the posts and boards straight and gives a clear guide for the full run. Check the line for obstacles, changes in level, existing boundaries and access requirements before digging post holes.

2. Position and set the posts

Post spacing should be measured carefully along the run. Once the post holes are dug, each post should be positioned, levelled and secured with a suitable post mix or concrete.

3. Fit the rails

Once the posts are set, fix the horizontal rails into position. The rails should be level and securely attached, as they form the main fixing structure for the feather edge boards. For taller fencing, additional rails may be needed to provide better support and reduce board movement.

4. Install gravel boards

Gravel boards can be fitted before the feather edge boards are added. They help lift the timber boards away from the ground and create a consistent base line for the fence. Where the ground slopes, the gravel boards may need to be stepped or cut to suit the levels.

5. Fix the feather edge boards

Feather edge boards should be fitted vertically, with a consistent overlap between each board. Use a level regularly to keep the boards straight and maintain an even finish.

Each board should be fixed securely to the rails without overdriving the fixings, as this can split the timber or weaken the hold.

6. Check the finish

Once the boards are installed, check the fence line, board spacing, fixings and overall finish. Any exposed cut ends should be treated where required to help protect the timber. Capping rails can also be added to create a neater top edge and provide extra protection from rainwater.

Common installation mistakes to avoid

A strong feather edge fence depends on careful preparation and installation. Common issues that can reduce the lifespan or appearance of the finished fence include:

• Setting posts too shallow

• Using untreated or unsuitable timber

• Leaving boards in direct contact with the ground

• Using the wrong fixings

• Allowing inconsistent board overlap

• Not checking the fence line regularly

• Failing to treat cut ends

• Under-specifying materials for exposed sites

Taking time to check the specification before installation can help prevent movement, gaps, premature rot and unnecessary repair work later.

How to maintain feather edge fencing

Feather edge fencing is designed to be durable, but it still benefits from regular maintenance. Timber is exposed to changing weather throughout the year, so checks should be carried out to spot early signs of damage or movement.

Maintenance may include:

• Reapplying fence treatment when needed

• Checking for loose or damaged boards

• Inspecting posts and rails

• Replacing split boards

• Clearing soil, leaves or debris from the base

• Checking fixings for rust or movement

Keeping the base of the fence clear and making sure water can drain away properly can reduce moisture damage.

Choosing feather edge fencing materials

The right materials can make a big difference to how well a feather edge fence performs. For most contractor-led projects, it is worth choosing treated feather edge boards, strong fence posts, suitable rails, gravel boards and external-grade fixings.

Hand tools and power tools should also be selected based on the scale of the job and the type of installation. For larger fence runs, accurate measuring, cutting and fixing equipment can help improve speed, consistency and finish.

Whether you are replacing an existing boundary or installing a new fence run, planning the materials in advance helps keep the job moving and reduces the risk of delays on site.

Feather edge fencing FAQs

How many feather edge boards do I need per metre?

The number of feather edge boards needed per metre depends on the board width and overlap. As a simple guide, a 125mm board with around 25mm overlap gives roughly 100mm of visible coverage, so you would need around 10 boards per metre. Always check the exact board size before ordering.

What overlap should feather edge boards have?

Feather edge boards are usually overlapped enough to create a solid, private finish while still allowing consistent fixing, typically around 25mm. The exact overlap can vary depending on the board size and project specification, but it should be kept consistent across the full fence run.

Can feather edge fencing be used on sloping ground?

Yes, feather edge fencing can work well on sloping ground because it is built from individual boards rather than pre-made panels. The fence can be stepped or adjusted to suit the levels, depending on the required finish.

Do feather edge boards need treating?

Treated feather edge boards are recommended for outdoor fencing because they are better protected against moisture and decay. Any cut ends should also be treated where required to help maintain protection.

How long does feather edge fencing last?

The lifespan of feather edge fencing depends on the quality of the materials, installation method, exposure and maintenance. A well-installed fence using treated timber, suitable posts and correct fixings should provide a long-lasting boundary solution, ranging from 15 years to 25 years.

Final thoughts

Feather edge fencing is a strong and versatile option for contractors working on garden, boundary and landscaping projects. By specifying the right boards, posts, rails, gravel boards and fixings, you can create a fence that looks neat, performs well and stands up to regular outdoor use.

Careful planning is just as important as the installation itself. Measuring the run accurately, allowing for overlap, choosing suitable timber and checking the site conditions all help create a better finished result.