Decking next to a fence
Decking sits on a frame of joists, and the joists rest on the ground or on small footings. A fence post cannot share that space. We normally set posts just outside the frame, so they are held in solid ground while the deck stays supported. If decking is already in place, send a photo showing the edge, and we can work out where posts will go.
Leave a gap of a few fingers between the deck boards and the fence so timber can drain and dry. Rain often runs off decking towards the boundary. Boards that touch panels can stay wet for weeks, which speeds up rot on both. A gravel board below the fence is sensible, because it takes the splashing.
Patios and the edge of paving
A patio that stops short of the boundary leaves soil for posts, which is the ideal situation. Where slabs run to the edge, a post may need a hole cut through them, or may be better placed beyond the paving. Cutting slabs is a job that should be done neatly, so tell us in advance if you want the paving left alone.
Fence panels can finish at the patio edge with a post on each side. This gives a clean line and avoids panels standing on slabs. In sloping gardens, which are not unusual around Stourbridge, the patio might also be level while the ground falls away, so the fence steps down to meet it.
Sheds, gaps and drainage
When a shed is built next to a fence, the gap behind it should be wide enough to reach. We often meet sheds that were put up first and boundaries that came second. Fitting a fence behind a shed that is tight against the line is difficult, and it is far easier if the shed is shifted a short way forward.
Think about water as well. Roof water from a shed should not run down onto the fence, and a shed base should not trap water against the bottom of the panels. A short length of guttering or a small slope away from the fence can help. If you are unsure, send us a photo and we will point out what we notice.
Quick tips
- Set decking joists clear of the fence posts, so each is supported by solid ground and neither moves against the other.
- Leave a small drainage gap between deck boards and panels so water can run away and timber can dry out.
- Send a photo of any slabs touching the boundary, because we may need to cut one or place posts beyond the edge.
- Make sure shed roof water runs away from the fence, not onto it, to protect panels and posts.
If you are in Stourbridge, in the DY8 or DY9 area, and want a fence fitted around decking, a patio or a shed, call us or send a photo with the fence location. We also work in Kinver and Wollaston, and there is no pressure at all.
Frequently asked questions
Why leave a gap between decking boards and the fence?
Rain often runs off decking towards the boundary. Boards that touch panels can stay wet for a long time, which speeds up rot on both. A gap of a few fingers lets timber drain and dry, and a gravel board below takes the splashing.
Where do posts go when my Stourbridge garden has decking or slabs?
Posts are normally set just outside the deck frame, so they stand in solid ground while the deck stays supported. Beside slabs, a post may go beyond the paving or through a neat hole cut in one slab. Tell us in advance if you want paving left alone.
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