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Feather Edge fencing is one of the most popular types of fencing for many good reasons. Feather Edge is a highly durable, low cost and visually appealing timber product- dig into our article to find out more!
What are Feather Edge Boards?
Feather edge boards are a popular choice in both fencing and cladding due to their durability, ease of use, and timeless aesthetic appeal. These boards are characterised by one thick edge that tapers to a thin edge, allowing them to overlap each other when installed. This overlapping design provides excellent weather resistance and a seamless, attractive finish. Its also the reason they are called Feather Edge, because they taper like a feather. They are also known simply as feather board.
Uses for Feather Edge Boards
Feather edge boards are incredibly versatile and can be used in various applications around the home and garden. All our boards are fully pressure treated tanalised with Tanalith E, which ensures protection against the elements, rot, and insects. Common uses include fencing, cladding for buildings, and garden borders. Their robust and flexible nature makes them suitable for creating durable and stylish outdoor structures from large scale projects to finishing touches.
Feather Edge Fence Panels
Feather edge fencing is one of the most popular uses for these boards. This type of fencing provides a strong, secure boundary that is both visually appealing and functional. The overlapping boards create a solid barrier that offers privacy and protection from the elements. Use our treated timber fence posts or concrete posts, along with quality post mix to complete the job with the best materials.
Feather edge fence panels are growing in popularity, with sales rising year on year along with the price remaining relatively unaffected by global circumstances.
Feather Edge Cladding
Feather edge boards are also used for cladding, which involves covering the exterior of a building with boards to protect it from weather and improve its appearance. Cladding with feather edge boards can give buildings a rustic, traditional look while enhancing their structural integrity. The boards also age well, adding to the character of the building through the exterior look.
Ever the jack-of-all, feather edge boards can be clad with the boards facing either vertically, like with the feather edge fence panels, or horizontally like traditional cladding, such as shiplap. This is what gives the more rustic look as a a pattern is created by the tapering thickness and overlap of the boards.
Types of Feather Edge Boards
Feather edge boards come in a few different widths, all of our boards are 5 inches wide or 125mm. Common materials include timber such as larch, oak, pine, and cedar. Feather edge boards are usually always treated with pressure treatment, which is standard for any timber that goes outdoors, offering increased resistance to rot and insect damage. You may have seen “lap” fence panels too, these are made with a lower quality board than feather edge, which is referred to as waney edge.
Installing Feather Edge Boards
Installing feather edge boards involves several steps: preparing the site, setting up posts, attaching horizontal rails, and then fixing the boards to the rails. Proper installation ensures the boards are secure and evenly spaced for maximum effectiveness and aesthetic appeal. You can use nails or screws to fix the boards to the rails. We find that the best how-to’s are on YouTube!
DIY Feather Edge Board Projects
Feather edge boards are perfect for DIY projects due to their ease of use and versatility.
Homeowners can use them to create
- Garden fences
- Shed cladding
- Gates
- Planters
- Blocking in small areas from pets such as a gap by the side of your raised decking
With basic tools and some planning, DIYers can achieve professional-looking results.
Feather Edge Board Maintenance
Maintaining feather edge boards is crucial to ensure their longevity. Regular cleaning, treating with preservatives, and repainting or staining as needed can keep the boards looking good and functioning well for many years. As a timber merchant for over 20 years, we have seen that this is an all too often missed step!
Sourcing Feather Edge Boards
When sourcing feather edge boards, consider material quality and treatment over everything else. The quality of your job depends on the quality of the material.
Luckily, you’re in good hands with Coventry Timber Products, we’re a trusted reputable supplier of feather edge boards, and can provide high-quality, sustainably sourced timber through the FSC and PEFC accredited forests our supply comes from, and we always keep the price extremely low compared to the big names!
Feather Edge Boards vs Other Fencing
Compared to other fencing options like panel fencing or picket fencing, feather edge boards offer unique benefits. They provide a more traditional look, greater flexibility in design, and superior strength and privacy. Theres a good reason why pre-made feather edge fence panels are so popular year in, year out!
Painting Feather Edge Boards
Whilst some prefer the natural look, we think that painting feather edge boards can enhance their appearance and provide additional protection against the elements. Choose a high-quality exterior paint or stain designed for wood. Don’t forget to ensure the boards are clean and dry before painting!
Feather Edge Board Gates
Gates made from feather edge boards offer a cohesive look when used with feather edge fencing. These gates are robust and can be customised in terms of size and design to fit the specific requirements of any property.
Eco-Friendly Feather Edge Boards
Eco-friendly feather edge boards are sourced from sustainably managed forests and treated with environmentally safe preservatives. Using these boards supports sustainable practices and reduces the environmental impact of construction projects.
Feather Edge Boards for Sheds
Feather edge boards are an excellent choice for shed construction. They provide a sturdy exterior that can withstand weather conditions while offering a classic, rustic look that blends well with garden landscapes.
Cost of Feather Edge Boards
Feather Edge boards are an affordable option for fencing and cladding, offering good value for money due to their durability and ease of installation.
We often find DIYers are surprised at just how cheap they are (under £1.50 per board for 1.5m lengths), you can get a lot of work done with a product so cheap if you know what you are doing.
Feather Edge Board Design Ideas
There are numerous design possibilities with feather edge boards. From traditional fencing to contemporary cladding designs, these boards can be used creatively to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of outdoor spaces.
Feather Edge Boards for Landscaping
Feather edge boards can be used in various landscaping projects, including creating raised garden beds, edging for pathways, and constructing garden structures. Their natural appearance complements garden environments beautifully.
Feather Edge Boards for Garden Borders
Using feather edge boards for garden borders helps define spaces within a garden, creating neat and attractive boundaries for flower beds, vegetable plots, and walkways. They are easy to install and maintain, making them a practical choice for gardeners.
Custom Feather Edge Board Projects
For those looking to add a unique touch to their outdoor spaces, custom feather edge board projects can be an excellent option. Custom designs can include tailored fencing solutions, bespoke cladding patterns, and unique garden structures that reflect personal style and preferences.
Feather Edge FAQs
What are feather edge boards made of?
Feather edge boards are typically made from timber such as oak, pine, or cedar. Treated versions are available to resist rot and insect damage.
How long do feather edge boards last?
With proper maintenance, treated feather edge boards can last up to 20 years or more. Regular cleaning and treatment are essential for longevity.
Can feather edge boards be painted?
Yes, feather edge boards can be painted or stained to enhance their appearance and protect them from weathering. Use exterior-grade paint or stain for best results.
Are feather edge boards eco-friendly?
We will only source eco-friendly feather edge boards, which come from sustainably managed forests and are treated with environmentally safe preservatives. Choosing these boards supports sustainable forestry practices and reduces the environmental impact of construction. We see mother nature as our number one supplier and care for her in every way we can.
How do you maintain feather edge boards?
Maintenance involves regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris, treating the wood with preservatives to protect against rot and insect damage, and repainting or staining as needed to maintain their appearance and durability.
What are the benefits of feather edge board fencing?
Feather edge board fencing offers several benefits, including durability, aesthetic appeal, and flexibility in design. The overlapping boards provide excellent privacy and protection from the elements.
Can I use feather edge boards for garden borders?
Yes, feather edge boards are ideal for creating garden borders. They help define spaces within a garden, such as flower beds and walkways, and their natural look complements garden landscapes.
What types of projects can be done with feather edge boards?
Feather edge boards are versatile and can be used for various projects, including fencing, cladding, garden borders, shed construction, gates, and custom outdoor structures.
Check out this amazing infographic from our friends at the FSC!
For more information on Feather Edge Boards, From Fencing To Cladding talk to Coventry Timber Products Ltd