For many properties, a fence is the only way to accurately see where their borders lie. They provide a safe space for your family to run and play, and keep your pets securely within your own backyard. They offer privacy from passers-by and even a level of protection against unwanted intruders. In short, they are a huge asset to any home. 

Whether you’re building a new home from scratch or you want to show your current fence some TLC, you may be considering a timber option, thanks to their attractive finish and durable construction. But how much does timber fencing actually cost? We’ve broken it down for you in this guide. 

Types of Fencing
One of the factors that influences the overall cost of the fence is the style that is used. We’ve listed some of the most common options, alongside their prices, so you can choose the best method of fencing to meet your personal taste, needs and architectural style.

• Standard Paling: This style is the most common form of timber fence across the country, and involves vertical panels of wood – often treated pine – lined up next to each other without any gaps. This style will set up back around $75 to $120 per meter, including labour.

• Picket: Offering a cottage-esque appearance, picket fencing is ideal for the front yard. With many details available, it comes in at many price points, and they are often a bit cheaper as they are shorter and require less timber – generally coming in between $60 and $100 per meter.

• Hardwood Sleepers: This method involves thick beams being set horizontally on top of each other, and is often also used as a retaining wall. However, as it is dependent on the height and function of the timber fencing, it is best to speak with your local fencing experts for an accurate estimate.

• Brush Panel: Often not the first style that comes to mind, Brush Panel fencing provides a far more rustic look, as it’s made from a dense shrub whose branches are compressed into a tight role of insulation. This option will set you back around $180 per meter. 

Types of Timber
The other major factor that dictates the cost of your timber fencing is the type of wood that you use. As different timbers offer a range of effects, they are favoured by different people. This often comes down to more than just personal taste – durability, availability and suitability also play a major role. This can get confusing, so don’t hesitate to speak with our team for more information. 

• Treated Pine: Thanks to the preservation treatment of treated pine, this timber fencing is protected from decay and termites, and will weather naturally from pale green to grey over time. 

• Merbau: This South East Asian timber has been used in Australia for decades, as it’s fire resistant and offers an even colour range. 

• Spotted Gum: Durable and strong, spotted gum is ideal for fire resistant areas. One of Australia’s most sought after timbers, it ranges from deep brown to blonde. 

• Cypress: A durable Australian softwood known for its distinctive knots, Cypress is an attractive timber that is resistance to termites – and it’s harvested sustainably!

Just like all things, the cost of timber fencing is incredible broad, thanks to a wide range of factors. In addition to style and timber you’ve chosen, the supplier will also have an impact on the price of the fence. By choosing a reputable business, you can be sure that the cost of your fence is reflected in the quality of the timber, as well as receiving expert advice and tips. 

When you’ve found a block of land that you really like, we understand that you don’t want to stand around twiddling your thumbs (in case someone else snatches it out from under you) but that you also don’t want to rush in and make a mistake. So, how do you determine whether your gut instincts are correct or whether they’re way off the mark? New home builders in Melbourne have shared their top 9 tips for choosing land:

1.    House & Land Packages
Some people like the availability of these packages and some people don’t; you need to determine which side of the fence you sit on and find out whether the block will accommodate you.

2.    Slope or Groundwork
You need to determine whether the block has a slope and what the soil is comprised of. You should also speak with a builder about whether the site needs further development works prior to construction.

3.    Orientation
Did you know that you can actually work towards cheaper power bills by assessing the orientation of the block? Capitalizing on natural light and heat can actually go a long way to making you more comfortable.

4.    Setbacks
This is incredibly important, as the setback rules affecting your site will ultimately determine how much of it you’re actually allowed to build on; some estates will let you build closer to the road than others.

5.    The Title
You need to determine whether the site is on a green title or a strata title – if it’s the latter, keep in mind that you’ll be sharing certain areas of the property with your neighbours.

6.    Nearby Works
It’s a good idea to determine what sorts of construction is going up around you, such as a busy commercial business or a major road. These are the kinds of works that you should avoid.

7.    Sales Incentives
With competition between estates at a premium, some developers will offer incentives (like free fencing). Keep an eye out for these incentives, as some will be far more attractive than others.

8.    Established Services
It’s also a good idea to take a look around at what amenities are nearby, such as a train station, schools or medical facilities. These sorts of amenities can enhance your lifestyle and improve value.

9.    Builder Discussions
If you’ve already chosen your new home builder, we definitely recommend getting them to take a look at the block. They will be able to help you choose land that meets your needs perfectly.You should know that what to watch out for when dealing with home builders in Melbourne.

If you are in the market for the perfect block of land for your dream home, we hope that you find the above tips useful in ensuring that you’ve made the right choice. At the end of the day, you shouldn’t ignore your gut instincts – if you really like the block, there is definitely something about it that is speaking to you. Perhaps you should try to determine what exactly that is and see if you can find it elsewhere (hopefully without any problems).

Did you know that merbau is one of the most popular hardwoods in Australia? It has been used for decades in applications where resistance to decay and insect infestations is important, like decking. If you are thinking about laying some Merbau timber for your home, you might be wondering about the advantages and disadvantages of such a decision. Whilst there is certainly a long list, we have taken a closer look at the main ones here.

Advantages
There are a number of advantages to using merbau decking over other timbers, including:












.   Bushfire Resistant – This is one of seven timbers that have been deemed suitable for use in bushfire prone regions around Australia. It will not catch fire easily. The other timbers include blackbutt, red ironbark, red river gum, silvertop ash, spotted gum and turpentine.

▪    Appearance – Merbau is a highly attractive timber that retains its colour far longer than many other species. In fact, many people believe that its appearance only improves with age. It ranges in colour from brown to reddish-brown and has an interlocking grain pattern.

▪    Outdoor Suitability – This timber is highly suited to outdoor use – it is rated Class 1 for above ground use, which makes it an ideal choice for decking. This is because it is quite stable and possesses a relatively low shrinkage/expansion rate (which is essential).

▪    Workability – Merbau is an incredibly durable material. Whilst it isn’t as hard as other native hardwoods, it is quite easy to saw through and work with. This means that you don’t have to strain too much when it comes to preparing and laying your decking.

Disadvantages
There are also some disadvantages to be aware of when using merbau decking, including:

▪    Oily – You should keep in mind that merbau is quite an oily timber. When it gets wet, it tends to ‘bleed’ tannins. These resins can adhere to the soles of your shoes and be walked through your house. You can help avoid this by purchasing well-seasoned or recycled stock.

▪    Environmental Impact – Unfortunately, there are few controls in place to protect this species or the forests it grows in. According to specialists, if harvesting continues at the same pace, this timber could be close to extinction. Ensure that you purchase from responsible harvesters.

▪    Costly – This point is actually linked to the one above; with merbau becoming harder to find, it is becoming increasingly expensive. Whilst most of Australia’s stock is imported, it can often carry a high price tag that many homeowners cannot afford.

We hope that this information has helped you come to a final decision regarding the use of merbau decking around your property. It is important that you weigh up each of the advantages and disadvantages in regards to your property and your specific needs; this will ensure that you have made the right choice. At the end of the day, however, we believe that merbau is a fantastic choice for any decking project and that it will serve you well.