How To Build a Horizontal Slatted Fence – A DIY Guide
Horizontal slatted fencing has become one of the most popular modern garden fencing styles in the UK. Its clean lines, contemporary appearance, and ability to balance privacy with airflow make it a favourite for homeowners, landscapers, and garden designers alike.
Whether you are creating a modern garden boundary, screening a patio area, or upgrading tired fencing, a horizontal slatted fence can completely transform your outdoor space.
In this guide, we will explain exactly how to build a horizontal slatted fence, including the materials you need, recommended spacing, post options, installation methods, and how to achieve a professional finish that lasts.
If you are looking for ready-to-install materials, browse our range of horizontal slatted fencing products here:
Why Choose Horizontal Slatted Fencing?
Horizontal slatted fencing offers a completely different look compared to traditional overlap or closeboard fence panels.
Benefits include:
- Modern architectural appearance
- Improved airflow compared to solid fencing
- Partial privacy without making the garden feel enclosed
- Ideal for contemporary landscaping projects
- Works well with decking, patios, pergolas, and rendered walls
- Can be built as fully bespoke fencing or using pre-made panels
This style is particularly popular in new-build gardens and outdoor entertaining spaces where appearance matters just as much as practicality.
What Timber Should You Use?
Choosing the correct timber is one of the most important parts of building a durable slatted fence.
Most horizontal slatted fencing is built using:
Planed Softwood Battens
Smooth planed timber creates the cleanest modern finish and is the most common option for residential gardens.
Pressure Treated Timber
Always choose pressure treated timber for outdoor fencing. This protects against:
- Rot
- Fungal decay
- Moisture damage
- Insect attack
Recommended Slat Sizes
Popular sizes include:
You can also explore our timber ranges here:
What Fence Posts Should You Use?
Your fence is only as strong as the posts supporting it.
There are two main options:
Wooden Fence Posts
Wooden posts provide a softer, more natural appearance and are ideal for modern timber fencing projects.
Advantages:
- More seamless appearance
- Easier to screw directly into
- Popular for residential gardens
Recommended sizes:
- 100mm x 100mm timber posts
- UC4 pressure treated posts for ground contact
Browse:
Concrete Fence Posts
Concrete posts offer maximum durability and longevity.
Advantages:
- Extremely long-lasting
- Rot-proof
- Excellent for exposed or windy gardens
- Lower long-term maintenance
Browse:
What Spacing Should You Leave Between Slats?
Spacing dramatically affects both privacy and appearance.
Common spacing options include:
| Slat Gap | Result |
|---|---|
| 10mm–15mm | High privacy |
| 20mm–25mm | Balanced privacy and airflow |
| 30mm+ | More decorative and open |
For most gardens, a 15mm–25mm spacing creates the best balance between style and privacy.
Using a spacer block during installation helps maintain perfectly even gaps.
Materials You Will Need
Typical materials include:
- Horizontal timber slats
- Fence posts
- Postcrete
- screws
- Spirit level
- Tape measure
- String line
- Mitre saw or circular saw
- Drill/driver
Recommended accessories:
Step-by-Step: How To Build a Horizontal Slatted Fence
1. Plan Your Fence Layout
Start by measuring the total fence run.
Mark:
- Post positions
- Gate openings
- Corners
- Ground level changes
Most fence bays are spaced around:
- 1.8m centres
- 2.4m centres
Smaller spans generally create a stronger fence.
2. Install The Fence Posts
Dig post holes approximately:
- 600mm deep minimum
- Wider for taller fences or exposed locations
Use a string line to keep posts perfectly aligned.
Secure posts using:
- Concrete
- Or fast-setting Postcrete
Recommended:
Allow posts to fully set before fitting slats.
3. Fit Horizontal Support Rails
Most slatted fences use vertical battens or rails fixed between posts first.
These provide the framework for attaching horizontal slats.
Typically:
- 2 rails for lower fencing
- 3 rails for taller fencing
Ensure rails are level before continuing.
4. Attach The Horizontal Slats
Start at the bottom and work upwards.
Use spacer blocks to maintain consistent gaps.
Important tips:
- Pre-drill timber where necessary
- Use exterior-grade screws
- Check levels regularly
- Keep slats perfectly parallel
For a premium look:
- Hide fixings where possible
- Use black screws for contrast
- Ensure all slats are cut consistently
5. Add Finishing Touches
To complete the fence:
- Sand rough edges
- Apply protective treatment if required
- Fit matching gates
- Add lighting or landscaping
Matching products:
Should You Build From Scratch Or Buy Ready-Made Panels?
Build From Scratch
Best for:
- Custom sizing
- Unique spacing
- Bespoke garden designs
Ready-Made Slatted Panels
Best for:
- Faster installation
- Consistent appearance
- Easier DIY fitting
Browse ready-made options:
How Long Does Horizontal Slatted Fencing Last?
A properly installed pressure treated slatted fence can last:
- 10–15+ years with timber posts
- Even longer with concrete or steel posts
Lifespan depends on:
- Ground contact
- Timber quality
- Drainage
- Exposure to weather
- Ongoing maintenance
Using quality materials is critical for long-term durability.
Is Horizontal Slatted Fencing Good For Wind?
Yes, horizontal slatted fencing can perform very well in windy areas because the gaps allow air to pass through the structure.
Compared to solid fence panels, slatted fencing often experiences:
- Reduced wind resistance
- Less strain on posts
- Lower risk of storm damage
For exposed gardens:
- Use stronger posts
- Reduce post spacing
- Install deeper footings
Related Guides
You may also find these helpful:
- Installing Residential Fencing: A Beginner’s Guide
- Factors To Consider When Choosing The Right Fence For You
- The Types of Fence Panels To Choose From For Your Garden
Shop Horizontal Slatted Fencing Materials
At Clarke Fencing, we supply a wide range of fencing materials suitable for modern horizontal slatted fencing projects, including:
- Decorative slatted fence panels
- Timber battens and rails
- Wooden fence posts
- Concrete fence posts
- Postcrete and fixings
- Matching gates and landscaping products
Whether you are building a fully bespoke slatted fence or installing ready-made decorative panels, our team can help you choose the right materials for your project.
