Question 1

What gap should I leave between pickets?

Accepted Answer

30–50% of the picket width. A gap of 5–8 cm with 10–12 cm pickets is the classic look. To keep animals out of a vegetable garden, use a minimum 3 cm gap; for a decorative fence, aim for 40–50% open space.

Question 2

What fence height suits a plot?

Accepted Answer

For the street frontage, 1.5–1.7 m. On a boundary with a neighbour, up to 1.5 m (anything higher may need agreement). For a yard facing the road, 1.7–2.0 m. By convention, a fence shouldn't shade the neighbouring plot.

Question 3

How do I mount pickets in a staggered (double-sided) pattern?

Accepted Answer

Pickets go on both sides of the rail with an overlap. This doubles the picket count and closes the gaps from behind. This mode needs a separate calculation — the staggered layout isn't covered by the standard mode.

Question 4

Metal or wooden pickets?

Accepted Answer

Metal (profiled) pickets don't rot, last 25–30 years and come pre-painted. Wooden pickets have a natural look but need treating with preservative every 2–3 years and last 10–15 years. The cost is comparable.

Question 5

Which rails should I use?

Accepted Answer

A 40 × 20 × 1.5 mm profile tube is ideal. Use 2 rows of rails for fences up to 1.5 m and 3 rows for 2 m and above. Weld the rails on, or fix them to the posts with X-brackets.

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