Fence Palings

What Is Paling Fence?

Paling fences present a common form of a privacy fence. Wooden fence palings designs can be very basic in lines and shapes but enhanced with some higher-end materials and finishes such as exposed posts, lattices on top and others. Traditionally, timber fence palings are used as a side or back boundary fence, or a way to block out unsightly areas. Timber palings can also create a wing fence and gate inside the property and allow for creative designs suitable for front feature fence.

Types of Wood for Fence Palings

Cedar Fence Palings

Cedarwood can elevate the appeal of the simple paling fence with its natural beauty. It comes in a variety of hues, ranging from reddish to warm brown, which turns to silver-grey with ageing. 

Cedar fence palings can fit a majority of fencing styles, from traditional and rustic to modern. This sort of timber features unique oils and tannins that make it resistant to rot, decay, and pests. Cedar fence palings are versatile, sustainable, and require minimal maintenance.

Pine Fence Palings

Pine fence palings offer high durability at an affordable cost. It features a stylish, organic look with a capacity for customisation. Pine fence palings are sturdy and can last for long if maintained properly, treated with insecticidal preservatives, and stained with a water repellent to prevent rotting.

Treated Wood Paling

Pressure-treated wood offers more durability than untreated wood types. This kind of wood paling is made from natural timbers like pine, processed for added protection from decay, rot, decay, and other common issues. The treatment makes it more resilient to wear, dents and scratches. 

Extra strength enables a long lifespan, which proper care can stretch over many decades. Pressure-treated wood paling is also an affordable solution, easy to customise for a wide variety of designs, colour palettes and patterns.

Height of Fence Palings

1.8m Fence Palings

Fences up to 1200mm in height need only two rails. If exceeding 1200 mm and raising to 1800 mm in height, a third rail is necessary. Rails should feature twice the length of the post spacing with staggered joints in the top and bottom rails. Shorter paling fence is commonly used to enclose a garden, a playground, or a "good neighbour" style property.

2.1m Fence Palings

A medium-high solution is often sufficient to provide privacy and prevent the curious neighbours or bypassers from peeking in. It requires at least three rails and adequate material like solid wood.

2.4m Fence Palings

For added convenience and extra safety, it's possible to build a 2.4 meters high fence. Besides privacy, this type of fence palings will make it harder for unwanted visitors as well as children and pets to climb over. Before buying, however, it's highly advised to double-check whether local regulations permit building a fence of this height.

Paling Fence Options

Vertical Paling Fence

Vertical fence paling can be arranged with or without gaps, depending on the desired privacy and light. Wide openings are great for gardens and playgrounds, as they allow visual contact. Paling tops can be finished in a variety of shapes that will define the overall style and character.

Horizontal Paling Fence

Horizontal fence palings offer more contemporary design versatility compared to traditional vertical and picket fencing. Combined with vertical posts, they provide modern, attractive appeal with a customisable level of privacy.

Fencing Regulations

The type, shape, height and design creativity must comply with the local landscape and fit the style of the neighbourhood. There are many rules and regulations so it would be smart to explore and know your rights before opting for the particular fencing solution. Building without permission and outside limits can result in large fines and even order for removal.