We recently completed a 6ft closeboard fence installation for a residential property in Torquay, and the results speak for themselves. A worn, tired panel boundary was replaced with 11.5 metres of robust, attractive closeboard fencing that transformed both the privacy and appearance of the garden.

Torquay homeowners face specific challenges when it comes to fencing. The coastal climate, varied soil conditions, and mix of property styles across the town mean that a one-size-fits-all approach simply does not work. This project was a perfect example of how tailored fencing solutions deliver lasting results.

The finished 6ft closeboard fence, providing privacy for this Torquay garden. The finished 6ft closeboard fence, providing privacy for this Torquay garden.

The Project: Replacing a Tired Boundary in Torquay

The client's existing fence had deteriorated past the point of a worthwhile repair. The old panels were a tired reddish-brown, the stain was peeling, the timber had weathered grey, and the line was no longer true. The garden was overlooked from the neighbouring property.

The old panel fence: peeling stain, weathered timber, and an uneven line. The old panel fence: peeling stain, weathered timber, and an uneven line.

After a free consultation and site visit, we recommended closeboard (feather-edge) fencing. Built on site from overlapping vertical boards, this style offers the best balance of strength, privacy, and visual appeal for Torquay properties.

What the project involved:

  • Removal and disposal of the old panel fencing
  • Installation of new pressure-treated timber posts set in concrete
  • Gravel boards fitted at the base to protect the timber from ground moisture
  • Vertical feather-edge boarding fitted to create a solid, gap-free 6ft boundary
  • Galvanised fixings throughout for corrosion resistance

New posts and gravel boards set in place, forming the foundation of a durable fence. New posts and gravel boards set in place, forming the foundation of a durable fence.

Why Closeboard Fencing Is Ideal for Torquay Gardens

Closeboard fencing is one of the most popular choices for Torquay homeowners, and it is easy to see why. The overlapping vertical boards create a completely solid barrier with no gaps, delivering total privacy from neighbouring properties. In a town where gardens are often close together, this is a significant advantage.

The design is also exceptionally resilient in windy conditions. The individual feather-edge boards can expand and contract naturally with changes in temperature and humidity without compromising the structural integrity of the fence. This is particularly important in Torquay, where coastal winds coming off Tor Bay can put considerable pressure on garden boundaries.

On this garden the ground falls slightly. The fence was set level in bays rather than following every dip, so the top line stays clean along the raised beds and the concrete path.

The overlapping feather-edge boards create a solid, private boundary with no gaps. The overlapping feather-edge boards create a solid, private boundary with no gaps.

Quality Materials for the Coastal Climate

Every component of this fence installation was selected with Torquay's coastal environment in mind.

Pressure-treated timber was used throughout. The treatment process forces preservative deep into the wood, protecting it against rot, decay, and insect attack. In a coastal town like Torquay, where salt air and moisture are constant factors, this treatment is essential for a fence that will stand the test of time.

Gravel boards sit at the base of each fence section, keeping the feather-edge boards clear of the damp ground. This simple but crucial detail significantly extends the life of the fence by preventing the most common cause of timber failure: ground contact moisture. With raised beds, mulch, and a path tight to the boundary, the base stays wet; the gravel boards take that splash instead.

Galvanised fixings were used on every joint and connection. Standard fixings would rust quickly in Torquay's coastal air, so galvanised nails and screws are a must for any fencing project within a mile or two of the sea.

A capping rail was fitted along the top of the fence, with square posts finished with flat post caps. The capping protects the end-grain of the boards from rain and gives the run a clean, finished line.

The Installation Process

We follow a proven installation method on every project to ensure consistent, high-quality results:

  1. Site survey and marking out: Accurate measurements ensure the fence line follows the boundary correctly
  2. Post holes: Dug to the correct depth for stability, with each post set in concrete for a secure foundation
  3. Posts and gravel boards: Set in place and levelled carefully to create a straight, true fence line
  4. Feather-edge boarding: Each board cut and fitted individually for a precise, tight finish with no gaps
  5. Capping rail: Fitted along the top of the fence to protect the end-grain of the boards
  6. Clean-up: All waste removed and the garden left tidy

The completed fence from a wider view, showing the full 11.5 metre run. The completed fence from a wider view, showing the full 11.5 metre run.

The Finished Result

The garden now benefits from a solid, secure 6ft boundary along the full 11.5 metres. The closeboard fencing looks clean and professional, with a level top line, overlapping boards, and timber gravel boards sitting neatly behind the raised beds and path.

The client can now enjoy their outdoor space without feeling overlooked by neighbours or worrying about the condition of their boundary. The fence will require minimal maintenance beyond a wood treatment every few years to keep the timber protected.

Torquay Fencing Experts

We know Torquay well. From the town centre and the harbour side to the residential areas of Shiphay, Hele, St Marychurch, and Babbacombe, we have installed fencing across the town. Whether your property is a modern development or a period home, we understand the specific requirements of Torquay's coastal climate and varied soil types.

Our fencing installations are built to last, using quality materials and proven construction methods that stand up to the demands of the Torbay weather.

Ready for Your Fencing Project in Torquay?

Whether you need a full closeboard fence installation like this one, a fence repair, or a completely different fencing style, we are here to help.

Call us today on 01803 494348 for your free, no-obligation quote and site visit. Let us discuss your project and find the perfect fencing solution for your Torquay home.

You can also use the contact form.