Looking for a fence that’s sturdy, stylish, and stands the test of time? Post and rail fencing might be your best bet. This article covers the pros and cons of post and rail to help you decide if it’ll be the next fence for your Adelaide property.
Before wrapping up, we’ll also answer 3 common questions related to Colorbond post and rail fencing, including cost, post spacing, and installation specs.
Starting with the…
Pros Of Post and Rail Fencing
Let’s get into the pros, the main benefits, and why post and rail fencing could be a perfect match for your home.
#1 Strong, Sturdy, & Built To Last
One thing we can guarantee you:
Post and rail fences are built tough 💪
They’re designed to withstand strong winds, bumps, and even the occasional soccer ball kicked at full speed!
The 50×50 steel posts are cemented deep in the ground, giving it strength superior to many other fencing options.
If you want a fence that still stands strong decades after construction, post and rail will have you covered.
#2 Maximum Privacy Barrier
Strength is one thing, privacy is another.
With a post and rail fence, you get both!
The fence is designed as a solid boundary that blocks the sight of nosy neighbours or curious morning joggers.
You can do whatever you want in your own backyard without the worry of getting peeped on. 👀
Wouldn’t that feel liberating?
That’s the true benefit of the privacy post and rail fencing provides to Adelaide residents.
#3 Modern Stylish Appearance (+ Customisation)
Aside from function, post and rail fencing also scores big points on beauty.
When its sleek, modern design stretches along your boundary lines, it just makes your home that touch more attractive. It tells your neighbours and local community that you care for your home, and know how to keep it looking fresh.
Plus the customisation options;
Choose your fence colour from the Colorbond range.
Choose to get your fence installed with or without capping.
You can make something truly unique with post and rail fencing.
Cons Of Post and Rail Fencing
Let’s explore a few cons you should consider before deciding on post and rail fencing.
It’s a solid choice, but it’s not ideal for everyone and every situation.
#1 Doesn’t Look Good When Stepped/Sloped
If you have a sloping yard, post and rail fencing might not be the best fit.
Stepping a post and rail fence is difficult, and can look… odd.
If your property has a slope, and you need a stepped fence or sleepers/plinths, Good Neighbour fencing might be a more functional choice.
Look at this stepped fence we recently installed in Modbury, Adelaide;
While it’s fully functional with all the pros mentioned above, it does have an odd look with the steps.
Good Neighbour fences look better when stepped, so that will be the more fitting choice for sloped ground.
And plinths?
Well, they don’t even go under post and rail fences.
Good Neighbour fences have tracks specifically designed to hold plinths.
The major con of post and rail fencing is they look odd when built on a slope.
#2 The Infamous “Good” & “Bad” Side
The other downside to post and rail fencing is that it has a “good” and “bad” side, which is often a source of conflict between neighbours. Post and rail fences show the steel posts and rails on one side, with smooth fence sheets on the other.
It’s different to Good Neighbour, where both sides look the same.
If this is likely to be an issue between you and your neighbours, a Good Neighbour fence might be a better option.
If not, post and rail is a solid choice.
Common Questions About Post And Rail Fencing In Adelaide (Answered)
Still can’t decide if this is the right fence for you?
Keep reading as I answer common questions about this popular Colorbond fencing choice.
How Much Does Post and Rail Fencing Cost in Australia?
Post and rail fencing generally costs between $140 and $175 per metre in Adelaide, SA.
It’s slightly more expensive than Good Neighbour fencing.
This price can vary depending on:
- Who you hire to build it
- If there’s extra labour involved
- Whether you need it stepped or not
- If you want capping or no capping (capping costs more)
- Or if you need posts closer together for extra stability (Which means more posts)
Get a price estimate for your post and rail fence installation.
Read also: Adelaide Fencing Price Guide: Cost Per Metre For Each Type Of Fence
How Far Apart Should The Posts Be?
Between 2m and 2.5m (metres).
I touched on this in the previous question, but if you want posts closer together at 2 metres apart, be prepared for a slightly higher cost due to the extra posts and work involved. We typically build them 2.5 metres apart, which is very stable.
How Deep Should Post Holes Be for Post and Rail Fencing?
Post-hole depth impacts the durability of the entire fence.
Anything less than 600mm in the ground is a bit risky for post and rail fencing. We dig our post holes exactly 600mm deep for the best stability. That hole is then filled to the brim with hard-setting cement and that’s what provides the strength.
Word of warning when dealing with contractors;
Some dodgy tradies trim their posts off at the bottom to avoid digging a deep hole.
They might only dig a 400mm hole, and cut 200mm off the post to make up the difference.
This reduces the strength of the fence you’re paying top dollar for, so make sure your contractors aren’t cutting corners like this.
Some rare insights from an honest fence builder 🙂
Is Post and Rail Fencing Right For Your Home?
So, is post and rail the right fence for your home?
Let’s summarise the pros and cons again before we wrap up the article.
Pros:
- Strong, sturdy, and built tough!
- Maximum privacy (best fence for privacy in Australia)
- Beautiful appearance and plenty of design options
Cons:
- Doesn’t look good when stepped
- There’s a “good” and “bad” side (may cause neighbourly disputes)
With its pros, it’s a great option for many Adelaide properties.
Reach out for a free, no-obligation quote from Calabria Fencing. Even if you’re still unsure, we’ll be happy to consult and advise you on the best fencing option for your unique situation.
>> Request a quote from Calabria Fencing <<
Let’s start planning the perfect fence for your home!