Picket Fences for Melbourne

For many homeowners in Melbourne, a picket fence is a highly desirable addition to their dream home. This is because a timber picket fence is long lasting and provides a striking feature for your home.

A picket fence is one of the most popular styles of fencing in Melbourne for a front yard. This is especially true for many period homes in Melbourne, including Victorian, Edwardian, Federation, and Californian Bungalows.

In recent years, picket fences have also become popular with modern homes. There is nothing better than a picket fence to add charm and style to your home, complete with a matching picket gate.

One of the reasons picket fences are so popular in Melbourne is the wide variety of styles available. You can even customise your design to create a unique look. Variations include height, picket or post ends, and inlays. Additionally, you can opt for a picket fence made of aluminium instead of traditional timber. This type of fence is sometimes referred to as a blade fence.

The Parts that Make up a Picket Fence

There are many components that make up a picket fence. Here are the most important components that Melbourne homeowners need to consider when installing a picket fence:

Picket Posts

The posts are the most important part of a picket fence, as they form the foundation from which your fence is built.

When the picket fence is made of timber, only long-lasting and durable timber is used. A popular choice for the timber is treated pine. Additionally, any nails used must be hot-dipped galvanised, making them resistant to corrosion.

You can even start creating the style of your new picket fence by selecting a top for the posts. The posts can match the picket panels, or you can choose a different yet complementary style. Some post top styles include Rounded, Pyramid, or something more exotic, like the Bishop’s Hat.

Picket Railings

The rails span across the posts and run horizontally to the ground. Depending on the height of the fence, usually two or three rails are used. Although the rails are placed on the inside of the fence, it is important to get them right, as they provide stability to the fence.

Picket Panels

The panels, and in particular, the head chosen for the panel, are what create the style of your fence. There are many different styles to choose from, including Acorn, Club, Spade, Windsor, Round, Flat, and Pointed. The height and pattern of the panels also contribute to the overall style. For example, level or capped picket fences are usually more suited to a modern style of home.

In contrast, the accented and arched picket fences are more suited to older and more traditional styles of homes. This is because they are more elaborate in style.

Type of Material

Although picket fences are usually made from wood, other materials are becoming increasingly popular. In particular, aluminium picket fences are now preferred by many homeowners, especially when they want a more modern style that is both long lasting and low maintenance. Aluminium fences are also resistant to weather damage, pests, and warping, making them a practical and durable choice for Melbourne homeowners. Where extra strength is required steel can also be used for picket fences.

Specifications for Picket Fences

Picket Sizes

The most common picket size is 70mm. However, thinner or thicker pickets are also used.

Height of Picket Sizes

Common picket heights are:

900mm
1200mm
1500mm
1800mm
2400mm

It’s important to check for any height restrictions in your local Council before you install your new picket fence.

The most popular gap between pickets is 30mm. However, 25mm is also common. The general rule is that the spacing between the pickets is smaller where privacy is desired. Conversely, if a more open feel is desired, the gap is slightly larger.

The most important thing is that there is the same size gap between all the pickets!

Styles of Picket Fences

Often, the style of the picket fence is chosen to suit the style of the house. For example, an Edwardian-style home often uses capped rail picket fences to match their verandah and fretwork. The reason for this is that the capped rail picket fence enhances and complements the Edwardian style.

Victorian-style homes often use the accented style of picket fence. This is because the design specifically complements their verandah lacework. In contrast, concave-style picket fences are perfect for a house with curved features, such as a bay window or bullnose verandah.

The simplest form of picket fence is called the level picket fence. It is often used for contemporary-style homes because it complements the straight lines of the modern home.

The construction and installation of a picket fence is relatively easy and straightforward, especially when handled by a professional fencing contractor. In addition, Joe’s Fencing & Gates has many years of experience installing high quality picket fences in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne, ensuring each project is completed with care and precision.

Picket Fencing Styles

Picket gates, including automatic sliding gates, can be built to match the same style of picket fence you choose.

Below are some of the many styles of picket fences available. These are currently the most popular styles in Melbourne. In addition, the post tops come in a variety of styles too. At Joe’s Fencing & Gates, we work with you to personalise the design of your new picket fence. As a result, once built, it will perfectly match and enhance your home.