When choosing fencing panels, you’ll often come across closeboard and featherboard. At Essex Concrete & Fencing, we regularly get asked about the difference. The terms are often mixed up, but they don’t mean the same thing.
What is a Closeboard Fence Panel?
A closeboard fence panel is made from vertical timber boards fixed to horizontal rails. The boards overlap, creating a solid and sturdy fence. This design helps block wind and offers good privacy.
You can buy closeboard fencing panels as ready-made sections or have them assembled on site. If you want a fence that takes knocks and lasts, a closeboard fence panel is a solid choice. You’ll see them in gardens, commercial sites, and around properties across the UK.
What is a Featherboard Fence?
Featherboard fencing uses feather-edge boards. These boards taper from thick on one edge to thin on the other. When fixed to rails, they overlap and create a strong, durable fence.
The term featherboard usually describes the boards themselves. Closeboard refers to the fence built using them. In fact, most closeboard fences are made using feather-edge boards. That’s why people often mix the two up.
So, you’re likely buying closeboard fence panels made from feather-edge boards.
The Practical Difference
The real difference is how you buy and build them. Closeboard fence panels come ready-made from a fencing merchant. Featherboard is about buying the individual boards and building the fence yourself.
If you want more control over the fence’s height, layout, or style, you might buy feather-edge boards and assemble it from scratch. If you want to save time, choose closeboard panels that are ready to slot into place.
Closeboard fence panels are generally quicker and simpler to install.
Strength and Durability
Both options give you a strong fence. The overlapping boards help resist wind and rough weather.
Closeboard panels, especially if pressure-treated, handle the British weather well. They stand up to everyday knocks from footballs, pets, or garden equipment.
A well-built featherboard fence is equally durable. The key is good construction.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want something quick and simple, go for closeboard fence panels. They work well when you want a straight, strong fence without much fuss.
If you prefer to tailor your fence to specific sizes or designs, feather-edge boards give you that flexibility. Just be prepared for more time and effort during installation.
For most domestic gardens, closeboard fence panels offer the right balance of strength, privacy, and ease.
Cost Breakdown
Closeboard fence panels usually cost more upfront since you’re buying a full panel. But you’ll likely save on installation time.
Feather-edge boards could cost less if you already have tools and DIY skills. However, if you need someone to build it for you, labour costs could make it more expensive than closeboard panels.
Ongoing Maintenance
Both fences need similar upkeep. Keep plants, soil, and moisture away from the base. Apply a good quality fence treatment regularly.
With proper care, both closeboard and featherboard fences will last for many years.
The Bottom Line
Closeboard and featherboard are closely linked. Closeboard refers to the finished fence. Featherboard is about the type of board used to build it.
If you want an easy, ready-to-fit option, choose closeboard fence panels from a reliable fencing merchant like Essex Concrete & Fencing.