Closeboard fencing is one of the strongest and most reliable fencing styles available, which is why it is the go-to choice for so many York homeowners. Whether you live in a terrace near Bishopthorpe Road, a semi in Acomb, a new-build in Clifton Moor or a detached property in Fulford, closeboard fencing offers the durability, privacy and long-term stability that many other fencing styles simply cannot match.
As someone who has installed closeboard fencing across York for years, I have seen it outperform almost every other system in terms of strength, weather resistance and lifespan. This guide explains exactly what closeboard fencing is, why it is so popular, how long it lasts, what it costs, and why it remains the best choice for most York gardens.
What is closeboard fencing?
Closeboard fencing is a solid, high-strength fencing system built using vertical featheredge boards fixed onto horizontal rails, supported by sturdy posts. Unlike standard lap panels, which come as pre-made sections, closeboard fencing is assembled piece by piece on site, allowing for a much stronger and more tailored build.
Key components include:
- Featheredge boards – overlapping vertical boards that create a solid barrier.
- Horizontal arris rails – thick rails that hold the structure together.
- Sturdy posts – usually concrete posts for long-term stability.
- Gravel boards – protecting the timber from soil contact.
The end result is a fencing system that is built to last, even under the tough weather conditions we get across York.
Why closeboard fencing is so popular in York
Closeboard fencing has become the standard choice for strength and privacy, and there are several reasons it performs exceptionally well in York’s gardens.
1. Outstanding strength and wind resistance
York experiences strong winds, especially in open areas like Rawcliffe, Huntington, Bishopthorpe and Strensall. Lightweight panels simply cannot handle the pressure over time. Closeboard’s individually built structure, combined with concrete posts, makes it one of the most wind-resistant options available.
2. Exceptional privacy
There are no gaps, slats or see-through panels, making closeboard fencing ideal for gardens that are overlooked or situated next to footpaths. It provides full visual privacy, which is a priority for many families.
3. Long lifespan
When installed correctly, closeboard fencing easily lasts 20 years or more. With concrete posts and gravel boards, the system is protected from rot and ground moisture, making it far more durable than timber panel fencing.
4. Works on uneven or sloped ground
Many York gardens are not perfectly level. Closeboard fencing is built on site, meaning each section can be stepped or shaped to follow the ground naturally and avoid gaps. Pre-made panels cannot offer this level of flexibility.
5. Ideal for families with pets and children
Because it is completely solid, closeboard fencing stops dogs escaping, blocks visual distractions and prevents children pushing objects under the boundary. For family homes, it is one of the safest and most secure choices.
Closeboard fencing vs lap panels
I often get asked whether closeboard is worth the investment compared to standard lap panels. The difference is significant in both quality and long-term value.
Strength
Closeboard: Built with thick boards, heavy rails and solid posts.
Lap panels: Thin slats that break easily in strong winds.
Lifespan
Closeboard: Typically 15–25 years.
Lap panels: Often fail within 3–7 years, especially on windy sites.
Maintenance
Closeboard: Minimal, especially with concrete posts and gravel boards.
Lap panels: Frequent rot, blown panels and replacements needed.
Overall cost-effectiveness
Closeboard costs more upfront, but far less in the long run due to its longevity and stability. Most York homeowners who have had to replace blown-out lap panels eventually upgrade to closeboard.
The best materials for closeboard fencing
Closeboard fencing can be built using different post and gravel board options. Here are the most common combinations:
Option 1: Concrete posts with concrete gravel boards
This is the strongest, most durable setup and the one I install most frequently. It offers:
- Maximum strength and lifespan.
- No risk of rot.
- Excellent wind resistance.
- Long-term stability on clay soil.
Option 2: Timber posts with timber gravel boards
Suitable for homeowners who prefer a full timber appearance. While more natural-looking, timber posts are not as long-lasting as concrete, especially in damp or heavily shaded gardens.
Option 3: Concrete posts with timber gravel boards
A good balance between looks and durability, though not as rot-resistant at ground level as full concrete.
Height options for closeboard fencing
Closeboard fencing offers excellent height flexibility, which makes it useful for overlooked gardens or for containing large dogs.
Common heights include:
- 1.5m for decorative boundaries or front gardens.
- 1.8m — the standard back garden height across York.
- 2m+ — where extra privacy or pet security is required (may require permission).
Trellis sections can also be added to increase height while keeping the garden light and airy.
How long does closeboard fencing last?
With proper installation, closeboard fencing typically lasts:
- 15–20 years using timber posts.
- 20–30 years using concrete posts and gravel boards.
This is significantly longer than traditional panels, making closeboard one of the best long-term investments.
How weather affects closeboard fencing in York
Closeboard fencing performs well in York’s varied conditions, including:
- High winds — strong rail structure prevents movement.
- Heavy rain — gravel boards protect timber boards from moisture.
- Clay soil movement — deep-set posts help prevent leaning.
- Damp gardens — concrete posts eliminate rot risks.
If you live in a very exposed location, we may recommend heavier posts or additional corner bracing for maximum stability.
Common mistakes homeowners make with closeboard fencing
Closeboard fencing lasts decades, but only if installed properly. Here are the most frequent issues I am called out to fix in York:
- Posts not sunk deep enough in soft clay soil.
- Weak arris rails causing boards to loosen.
- Gaps under the fence due to uneven ground.
- No gravel boards, leading to early timber rot.
- Incorrect board overlap causing water ingress.
Every one of these issues is preventable with proper installation and materials.
Cost expectations for closeboard fencing
The cost of closeboard fencing varies based on:
- Material choices (concrete vs timber posts).
- Fence height.
- Boundary length.
- Ground levels.
- Access to the garden.
Closeboard is an investment, but one that pays off in durability and long-term value. It is far more cost-effective than paying for repeated repairs or replacements of cheaper panels.
Why York Fencing specialises in closeboard fencing
At York Fencing, closeboard installations are one of our most requested services. We focus on:
- Deep post installation for maximum stability.
- High-quality materials tailored to York’s weather.
- Accurate stepping on sloped or uneven boundaries.
- Strong gravel boards to protect timber.
- Clean finishes that improve garden appearance.
Every fence is built on site, allowing us to create a perfectly fitted boundary that matches the garden’s layout and style.
Ready to upgrade to closeboard fencing?
If your current panels are rattling, leaning or blown out, or if you simply want a stronger, more private boundary, closeboard fencing is one of the best investments you can make. We install closeboard fencing across the whole of York, from terraced homes to large detached plots.
Send us your postcode and a rough boundary length, and we will provide a fixed-price quote along with material options.
Visit our Garden Fencing page or head to the contact page to get started.