Six reasons to consider a metal picket fence

The gaps between pickets affect visibility and the lightness of the bay. A wider gap opens up the view of the garden, while a denser arrangement screens the terrace better from the street. This makes it possible to design different sections of the same property according to their function. It is not necessary to use equally full infill everywhere.

An alternating arrangement on both sides of the rails can further restrict visibility. It must, however, be viewed at an angle, not only straight on. Gaps may still be visible from some positions. Greater screening also increases the area exposed to wind, which must be taken into account in the construction.

Before ordering, it is worth setting up a sample of several components at the planned spacing. In real life it is easier to assess privacy from the pavement and from inside the garden. A catalogue photograph does not show all viewing directions.

Steel components are protected with layers selected for their application. A well-preserved coating does not require the treatments typical of bare wood. Maintenance focuses on washing off dirt, checking edges and promptly repairing damage. This can reduce the amount of work on a long fence.

This does not mean it is completely maintenance-free. Soil, fertilisers and road salt can worsen the operating conditions of the surface. Pickets should not be permanently immersed in damp leaves. A gap from the ground and the ability to clean the lower part of the bay are important.

The coating is also chosen to suit the property’s surroundings. Colour and gloss are only part of the decision. The method of protection on both sides and the rules for maintenance and repair should be checked.

Pickets are available in various cross-sections, end shapes and finishes. A vertical rhythm suits many traditional and contemporary facades. In systems that permit a different arrangement, horizontal mounting can also be used. It requires suitably selected supports and does not result merely from turning the component.

A graphite-coloured fence can echo a roof made of tile-effect metal roofing sheets or T18. It is not necessary, however, to achieve identical surfaces throughout. Matt, gloss and texture change the perception of the same colour. It is best to compare samples next to the facade, including on the garden side.

It is worth planning a common rhythm for the bays, gate and pedestrian gate. Even lines and a deliberate arrangement of posts often have a greater effect than the decorative shape of the picket itself.

A bay made of separate pickets allows a locally damaged part to be replaced. This can be useful after an impact or a scratch during garden work. The extent of dismantling depends on the method of fixing and access to the fasteners. It is advisable to keep a note of the profile and its exact dimensions.

After years, a new component may differ in shade from the others. The old coating changes under the influence of weather, and the range of materials may also change. For this reason, a small stock from the same delivery, stored in accordance with the recommendations, can be practical.

Easier replacement of the infill does not solve damage to the post or foundation. During repair, it must be checked whether the impact has affected the entire bay.

Separate pickets allow the infill to be planned between existing or planned posts. The number and spacing are determined for each bay. This makes it possible to avoid a very narrow, random fragment at the end. Measuring out the entire fence line in advance is important.

On sloping ground, a plan is needed for running the top and bottom edges. A stepped layout gives a different effect from following the slope. The solutions permitted for the system and the size of the gaps at ground level must be checked. This also matters for animals on the property.

In a picket fence, the infill, rails, posts, fasteners and groundworks can be calculated separately. This makes it easier to compare a more open variant with a denser one. However, the unit of price must be established: metre of picket length, piece, or finished metre of fence. These values are not interchangeable.

The final bill also includes the gate, pedestrian gate, installation and transport. A cheap picket does not guarantee a cheap fence if it requires more supports or more expensive groundworks. A reliable quote describes the entire layout and the surface parameters, instead of giving a single price without scope.

Compare two variants on a drawing of one complete bay. Record the number of pickets, the gaps and the width of the sides at the posts. The same metre of fence can involve completely different material consumption.

Metal pickets offer great freedom in adapting the screening and appearance of a property. Their advantages are most noticeable with well-planned bays and a well-maintained coating. The decision is best based on a sample and a quote for the complete fence, including structure and installation.