Top 4 Best Fence Panels for Windy Areas
Living in the UK means dealing with unpredictable and often harsh weather conditions, especially strong winds. For homeowners in windy areas, choosing reliable and durable fence panels can be the difference between a safe, long-lasting fence and frequent costly repairs. If you’re looking for expert advice on weatherproof fencing solutions, as well as fence installation or maintenance tips, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the best fence panels for windy areas, focusing on wooden fences, which are a classic, cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
Why Is Wind Resistance Important in Garden Fencing?
Not all garden fences perform equally when it comes to handling strong winds, especially in the face of unpredictable British weather. In areas such as coastal towns or exposed rural locations, wind pressure can be a real challenge. Without proper planning, fences may begin to lean, crack, or even collapse over time. This not only affects your garden’s appearance but can also lead to expensive repairs and potential safety concerns. That’s why wind resistance isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a key consideration in fence design and installation.
Closeboard panels are a popular and trusted choice thanks to their strength, durability, and classic look. When correctly installed with robust posts and secure fixings, closeboard fencing can perform exceptionally well, even in high-wind areas. However, in particularly exposed locations, it’s worth considering fencing options that allow wind to pass through more freely, such as slatted or hit-and-miss designs, which naturally reduce wind pressure.
Ultimately, the key to a long-lasting, wind-resistant fence lies in choosing high-quality materials and ensuring professional installation. By combining well-constructed panels or composite options – with strong fence posts and proper installation, you can create a fence that withstands the elements without sacrificing style or privacy.
What Are the Best Fence Panels for Windy Areas?
Composite Fence Panels
Composite fencing combines wood fibers and recycled plastics to deliver a robust, low‑maintenance solution with a modern look and excellent weather resistance. Leading brands undergo rigorous wind‑load testing which withstand up to 100mph. This high wind performance comes from a solid, interlocking design that resists warping, splitting and rot. Unlike slatted or hit‑and‑miss panels, composite options provide total privacy without compromising strength. Most also include complete post and fixing systems, often backed by warranties.
Durapost Urban Composite Fence Boards
Slatted Fence Panels
Slatted fence panels are a favourite among homeowners for their modern aesthetics and high wind resistance. They consist of closely spaced horizontal or vertical slats with small gaps between them. This design provides adequate privacy while maintaining airflow—the gaps let wind pass through, reducing the pressure that would otherwise build up against solid panels in windy conditions.
If you’re interested in more traditional slatted fencing solutions, consider picket fence panels, also known as palisade fencing. Their characteristic construction—evenly spaced vertical slats attached to two horizontal rails—is well-suited for windy areas and brings unique charm to garden design, elevating its overall appearance. The main disadvantage of this type of garden fencing is the lack of privacy.
Western Red Cedar Screening Slatted Panels
Trellis Fence Panels
Trellis fence panels, also known as lattice fencing, are another excellent option for windy gardens. With an open grid of crisscrossed timber strips that allow wind to pass through unobstructed, they are perfect for defining sections of a garden without blocking light or visibility.
Although more lightweight and decorative than other fencing solutions, when used strategically, trellis panels can form a wind-resistant fence, especially when installed alongside sturdy timber or concrete fence posts for extra stability. They also make ideal mounting points for climbing plants, enhancing the garden’s design while adding another layer of natural wind protection.
Hit-and-Miss Panels
These cleverly designed fence panels feature alternating boards on both sides of the supporting rails or posts, which allows wind to flow through the small gaps without sacrificing privacy. The unique structure of hit-and-miss panels ensures that wind doesn’t get trapped and build up pressure on one side of the fence.
While not as open as trellis or slatted panels, they offer a good middle ground between strength and airflow. Available in vertical or horizontal styles, they’re ideal for areas where both privacy and wind resistance matter.
Available in various sizes, they can be installed with concrete posts or timber posts to create a long-lasting garden fencing perfect for windy areas.
Non Framed Double Sided Slatted Panel 1.8M X 1.8M
How Do You Build a Fence That Can Withstand Strong Winds?
Building a fence suitable for windy areas requires careful planning, quality materials and expert installation. It starts with selecting wind-resistant fence panels, such as composite panels, slatted panels, trellis panels or hit-and-miss panels, among other available options.
Next, focus on the fence posts. High-quality timber posts are sturdy enough to withstand strong winds and blend in seamlessly with wooden fence panels, creating a uniform appearance. Depending on your preferences, you can also opt for concrete or steel fence posts.
Installation is just as important as the materials used—that’s the key to keeping your fence posts safely in the ground, even during harsh weather. Standard practice suggests burying them 2ft (around 60 cm) deep, but in windy areas, it may be a good idea to go with at least 3ft (around 90 cm) to keep your fence stable in any conditions.
To further windproof your fence panels, reinforce them with extra horizontal or vertical rails to reduce wind pressure on individual slats or boards. Regular maintenance is another thing that can prolong the longevity of your garden fencing. Inspect your fence seasonally—especially after winter—and re-treat exposed timber to address any signs of damage or rot before problems escalate. It may also be a good idea to use gravel boards at the base to act as a barrier between your fence panels and moisture in the ground.
Invest in High-Quality Fencing Solutions!
Investing in the best fence panels for windy areas can not only enhance the appearance of your outdoor space, but also ensure that your fence lasts for years, even in the face of high winds. Whether you’re looking for trellis or hit-and-miss fence panels, durable fence posts, or fencing accessories to help with proper installation and maintenance, you can find everything you need among our products! At Timberstore, we guarantee competitive prices, high quality and expert advice!
Wind-Resistant Fence Panels: FAQ
What is the best material for garden fencing in wind-prone areas?
Timber is an excellent choice for fencing in windy areas when it is pressure-treated and installed correctly. Although metal fences, composite fencing, and vinyl fences are good alternatives, well-constructed wooden fences offer natural beauty, versatility, and high wind resistance when combined with the right panel design.
Can wooden fencing withstand strong winds?
Wooden panels are a great choice for windproof fencing if you choose wind-resistant designs (e.g. picket fence or hit-and-miss fence panels) and use durable fence posts (e.g. timber, steel or concrete posts). Remember that proper installation is just as important as the design and quality of materials—make sure that your fence posts are stable enough to withstand high winds.
How deep should fence posts be set in windy areas?
In wind-prone areas, it’s recommended to dig at least 3ft (90 cm) deep when installing fence posts, compared to the standard depth of 2ft (60 cm). A greater depth provides more resistance against the forces exerted by strong gusts.
How do fence posts affect wind resistance?
Fence posts provide a structural foundation for your fence. Without properly installed and reinforced posts, even the best fence panels will not be able to withstand windy conditions. Weak or shallow posts do not offer enough support to keep the fence upright during strong winds.
What is the difference between wind-resistant and windproof fencing?
Wind-resistant fencing is designed to reduce wind pressure by incorporating gaps that allow wind to pass through. Windproof fencing, on the other hand, refers to structures that are impenetrable to wind. The second option may not be the best solution in areas prone to high winds because, with no way to flow through, wind will put constant pressure on the fence, potentially leading to damage.