A Beginner’s Guide to Building a Slatted Fence

Are you tired of the same traditional wooden fences? If so, why not switch things up with a contemporary slatted wall fence?

This adds character and depth to a garden, and it’s perfect for a DIY project. Slatted panels offer the perfect mix of openness and privacy, great for adding detail without overwhelming your garden. 

Today, Beesley and Fildes will show you how to build a slatted fence, which will allow you to enjoy a quick and affordable transition to a new garden. Read more here about all the amazing benefits of slatted wall panels.

Essential Materials and Tools

Before we begin the installation process, you must gather all the necessary tools and materials. 

We suggest choosing high-quality materials and tools that will guarantee a durable and long-lasting fence. 

Materials

  • Fence panels
  • Fence posts
  • Wood treatments (wood preservative or stain)

Tools

  • Saw
  • Spirit level
  • Measuring tape and pencil
  • Post hole digger or spade
  • Drill and screws
  • Wood screws or brackets
  • Spacer 

PPE: When working with electrical tools and chemicals, you must wear protective gloves, goggles, and shoes to prevent injury.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Slatted Fence

For a quick and easy installation, we have broken down the task into smaller, manageable steps. 

Continue reading to discover how to build a slatted fence from home.

1. Measure and Mark the Area

Before you begin any work, you need to determine where the slatted fence will go. You could replace your whole garden fence or add a new fence around a patio area or gazebo.

Use a measuring tape to determine the total length of the fence line; note any slopes or uneven ground. Then, decide how much space is needed between each post (generally 6 to 8 feet apart).

Check for any underground utilities before digging to prevent any damage to the pipes or cables. A fence should be no more than 2 metres high, as this requires planning permission.

2. Dig and Prepare Post Holes

Once you’ve gotten all the correct measurements, it’s time to prepare the post holes. 

Dig holes at each designated spot using a post-hole digger or spade. To guarantee stability, aim for a depth of roughly one-third of the entire post height, which is normally about two feet deep for a six-foot fence.

Then, prepare for drainage by adding a few inches of gravel to the bottom of each post hole. Once this is done, place the posts in each hole, using a spirit level to ensure they’re straight. Secure the posts temporarily with stakes or braces.

3. Set the Fence Posts

Once the posts have been secured, fill all of the surrounding holes with quick-setting concrete. Follow the directions on the concrete mix to ensure the concrete fills the hole all the way to ground level.

Then, double-check that each post is straight with a spirit level. Make any adjustments as needed before the concrete sets. Allow the concrete to set for 24 hours before installing the slats.

4. Attach the Slatted Panels

Decide how wide you would like each slat to be, and use a spacer tool to maintain consistent gaps between each panel—opt for smaller gaps for privacy.

Working your way up, start attaching slats from the bottom of the posts. This technique guarantees a smooth, level finish. Secure each slat to each post using wood screws or nails that are designed for outdoor use.

Continue adding slats until each fence panel is complete, using a spirit level to check the spacing is even.

5. Add Finishing Touches

Once your new slatted fence is installed, complete a few more steps to achieve a professional finish. 

  • Sand any rough edges on the slats or posts with sandpaper to achieve a smooth and refined look.
  • Apply a wood stain or sealant to protect the wood from damage, including rot, dampness, and warping. 
  • Remove any temporary braces and stakes to complete the installation.

Transform Your Garden Today with Quality Slatted Fence Panels

If you’re ready to give your garden the makeover it deserves, look no further than Beesley and Fildes' selection of stunning slat fence panels. 

Browse our collection to find everything you need to create a beautiful, lasting fence that elevates your outdoor space.

Exploring the rest of our garden and landscaping products today for a complete upgrade.