What are closeboard fence panels?

Closeboard fence panels are formed from vertical feather-edge boards that partially overlap and are fixed to horizontal rails within a solid frame. This overlapping, close-fitting construction leaves no gaps, giving excellent privacy, strength and wind resistance. They’re sometimes called feather-edge panels, vertical board panels or heavy-duty panels — these are all names for the same product. Because they arrive fully assembled, there’s no need to build the fence board by board on site. Our closeboard fence panels are manufactured from FSC® certified timber, come with a 10-year product guarantee, and are available in green or brown treatment, in heights of 6ft, 5ft, 4ft and 3ft.

What are lap panels?

Lap panels — also known as overlap, waney lap or larch lap panels — are built from thin horizontal boards that overlap to create privacy while keeping costs down. They’re fully framed (typically with vertical battens on both sides) and finished with straight-edged slats. Lap panels are the more affordable option and the most popular fence panel style in the UK, though they’re not as robust as closeboard panels in exposed, windy locations. Our lap panels come with a 10-year product guarantee, are FSC® certified, and are available pressure-treated in green or brown.

What about traditional closeboard fencing?

There’s a third option worth knowing about, and it’s easy to confuse with closeboard panels because it looks very similar once finished. Traditional closeboard fencing is built on site from individual feather-edge boards, fixed to posts and rails, rather than arriving as a pre-made panel.

The main practical difference: with closeboard panels, the posts are visible between each panel. With traditional closeboard fencing, the feather-edge boards run continuously across the posts, so one side gives an unbroken run of boarding with the posts hidden behind it.

This approach also gives you more flexibility. Because you’re not limited to fixed panel widths, a closeboard fence can be built to any length and can follow the slope of a sloped garden — rather than the stepped look you get when panels have to sit level on a slope. If a board is ever damaged, you can typically replace just that one board rather than an entire panel.

It generally costs a little more up front and takes longer to install than dropping in ready-made panels, but the flexibility and long-term repairability often make it worthwhile for awkward boundaries. See our guide to closeboard fencing for the full range of feather-edge boards, rails and fixings.

Strength, cost and lifespan

• Strength: closeboard fence panels use thicker vertical boards on a heavier frame than lap panels, so they resist sagging, warping and storm damage considerably better.

• Guarantee: both closeboard fence panels and lap panels currently carry a 10-year product guarantee.

• Lifespan: a well-installed and maintained traditional closeboard fence is commonly expected to last 15 – 20 years or more. Panel lifespan depends heavily on installation quality (post choice, gravel boards, drainage) alongside the guarantee period.

• Cost: lap panels are generally the most budget-friendly starting point. Closeboard fence panels cost more due to the additional timber and heavier frame — check current pricing on the product page for exact figures, as this varies by size and treatment and changes with the market. Traditional closeboard fencing tends to cost more initially than either panel option but can prove more cost-effective over time thanks to easier repairs.

Posts and installation

• 75x75mm posts are generally suitable for lap panels and lighter decorative styles.

• 100x100mm posts are the better choice for closeboard panels or other heavier-duty styles, given the extra weight and wind loading involved.

• Fit a gravel board under any panel type — timber or concrete — to keep boards at least 50mm clear of the ground, which helps the fence outlast its guarantee period.

• Concrete gravel boards can only be used with concrete posts, not timber posts.

For full detail on post depth, drainage and quantities of post mix, see our guide on how to install a fence post.

Which should you choose?

• Choose closeboard fence panels if: you want maximum strength and privacy with a quick, ready-assembled install — ideal for exposed or windy gardens and rear boundaries.

• Choose lap panels if: budget is the main priority and your garden isn’t especially exposed to wind.

• Choose traditional closeboard fencing if: your boundary is sloped, an unusual length, or you want the option of repairing single boards rather than whole panels over the fence’s lifetime.

FAQs

Are closeboard fence panels and feather-edge panels the same thing?

Yes. Closeboard fence panels and feather-edge fence panels are the same product — the terms, along with ​‘vertical board panels’ and ​‘heavy-duty panels’, are used interchangeably.

Are closeboard panels really stronger than lap panels?

Yes. Closeboard panels use thicker vertical boards on a heavier frame, which resists wind, sagging and warping considerably better than the lighter frame used on lap panels.

What’s the difference between closeboard fence panels and traditional closeboard fencing?

Closeboard fence panels arrive pre-assembled and drop between posts like any other panel, with posts visible along the run. Traditional closeboard fencing is built on site from individual feather-edge boards fixed to posts and rails, giving an unbroken run of boarding on one side with the posts hidden behind it.

Which is cheaper, closeboard or lap panels?

Lap panels are typically the more affordable option. Closeboard fence panels cost more due to the extra timber and heavier frame — check current pricing on the product pages for exact figures, as prices change with the market.

Can I install closeboard fencing myself?

Yes — with the right tools and materials, it’s a popular DIY project. Many people also choose a professional installer for faster, guaranteed results; Walford Timber can put you in touch with a vetted installer in your area.

Related guides

• Closeboard fence panels (product page)

• Lap panels (product page)

• Closeboard fencing (feather-edge boards, rails and fixings)

• Choosing the right fence

• Wooden Fence Panels: A Complete Guide

• Timber posts and gravel boards

• How to install a fence post