How to choose the right fence for your garden

How to choose the right fence for your garden

How to choose the right fence for your garden

Let’s face it—Irish weather isn’t known for going easy on your garden.

With endless rain, sudden gales, and the odd bit of sunshine, your fence needs to be more than just a boundary; it must be tough, resilient, and low-fuss.

That’s why the choice between traditional timber fencing and modern composite systems is more relevant than ever.

Loose pickets vs Composite fencing

For generations, Loose Pickets have been the go-to solution across Irish homes.

Their rustic charm and versatility make them ideal for creating garden borders, adding privacy, and keeping children and pets safe.

Crafted from pressure-treated timber, they offer natural beauty and warmth that blends seamlessly into any rural or suburban setting.

Available in various sizes, these vertical timber panels are not only easy to work with but also ideal for tradespeople and DIYers alike.

Whether you're building a garden fence from scratch or replacing an older section, Loose Pickets provide a flexible, budget-friendly way to define outdoor space.

Benefits of loose pickets:
  • Easy to cut and shape for custom designs
  • Ideal for DIYers and tradespeople
  • Available in a range of sizes for flexible installations
  • Pressure-treated for extra resistance against moisture and decay
  • Natural look that complements gardens and homes
  • Provides privacy, security, and visual definition

However, even treated timber has its limits.

Over time—and under constant exposure to Irish damp—traditional fences can warp, rot, and require repainting or re-staining every few years.

That’s where Guardian Composite Fencing changes the game.

A weather-ready alternative: Guardian Composite Fence Boards

Built specifically to withstand the challenges of our temperamental climate, Guardian Composite Tongue and Groove Fence Boards offer an incredibly low-maintenance, long-lasting solution.

Unlike timber, composite doesn’t rot, splinter, or require ongoing upkeep.

Just hose it down, and it’s good as new.

Why go composite?
  • Weather-resistant: No more panic every time it rains. Composite boards are moisture-proof, mould-resistant, and impervious to mildew.
  • Privacy first: The tall, interlocking tongue-and-groove design leaves no gaps—ideal for windy gardens or nosy neighbours.
  • Two-sided finish: Choose between a grooved or brushed surface for the style that suits your space.
  • Quick install: Designed for seamless setup, whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading worn-out timber panels.

And for added strength, Guardian’s aluminium posts and ground spikes provide a rock-solid, rustproof foundation—no concrete required.

Which is right for you?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Feature Loose pickets Composite fencing
Appearance Natural timber Sleek modern finish
Maintenance Requires painting/staining Hose down only
Weather resistance Moderate (pressure-treated) High (WPC + aluminium posts)
Lifespan 5–10 years (with upkeep) 15+ years (minimal upkeep)
Installation DIY-friendly DIY or pro install
Cost Lower upfront Higher upfront, lower over time
Your garden, your choice—We’re here to help:

If you're after a classic look and enjoy a bit of garden DIY, Loose Pickets are a timeless and affordable choice.

They're easy to work with, pressure-treated for Irish weather, and available in multiple sizes to suit any project.

But if you want to install it and forget it, composite fencing is worth the investment—especially here in Ireland, where the weather can turn on a dime.

Whichever you choose, we’ve got you covered.

Explore both fencing options online or pop into our store to chat with our team.

We’ll help you pick the perfect solution for your garden—and the Irish weather.

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