The Ultimate Fencing Hardware Guide
Whether you are repairing storm damage, installing new garden panels, or setting up line wire fencing, choosing the right hardware makes the difference between a fence that lasts decades and one that rattles apart in the first high-wind event.
How do I stop my fence panels from rattling in the wind?
Rattling fence panels are caused by gaps between the timber panel frame and the supporting post. In strong UK gusts, this constant movement weakens the fixings and can lift panels right out of their posts.
To fix this:
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Install Galvanised U-Clips / Brackets: Secure panel frames directly to wooden posts using heavy-duty, zinc-galvanised U-clips (typically available in 40mm, 46mm, and 52mm sizes to fit standard timber depths).
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Fix Top and Bottom: Place one U-clip near the top rail and one near the bottom rail on both sides of the panel.
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Screw Securely: Fasten with outdoor-grade wood screws through the pre-drilled holes to lock the panel tight against the post.
Which fence post support should I use: Drive-In, Bolt-Down, or Concrete-In?
Choosing the right post anchor depends on the ground surface and soil stability:
| Post Support Type | Best Used For | Key Advantage | Installation Method |
| Drive-In Spike | Soil, lawns, and soft ground | No digging or wet concrete required | Driven directly into the earth using a sledgehammer and wooden block |
| Bolt-Down Base | Existing concrete, patios, and brick walls | Ideal for solid hardstanding surfaces | Fixed down using masonry anchor bolts into pre-drilled holes |
| Concrete-In Base | Soft ground, high-wind exposed areas, or tall fences | Maximum structural strength | Set into a dug hole and surrounded with concrete mix |
Why should I fit metal post caps to wooden fence posts?
Timber posts decay from the top down. Rainwater sits on the flat, exposed end-grain at the top of the post, soaking inward and causing timber to split and rot.
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End-Grain Protection: Pyramid steel or black powder-coated metal post caps seal the top of the post completely.
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Water Runoff: The sloped pyramid design sheds rainwater instantly away from the timber core.
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Sizing Tip: Measure the top profile of your timber post before buying—standard UK timber posts are usually 3" (75mm) or 4" (100mm) square.
What are Gravel Board Clips and why do I need them?
Gravel board clips (brackets) hold concrete or timber gravel boards in position between wooden fence posts.
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Rot Prevention: Elevating timber fence panels off the damp soil prevents direct ground contact and moisture absorption.
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Quick Replacement: Mounting the gravel board with galvanized clips allows you to replace a damaged bottom board in the future without disturbing the main fence panel above.
How do Ratchet Wire Strainers (Radisseurs) work on chain link or line wire fencing?
Wire tensioners are compact mechanical ratchets used to pull wire fencing taut between end posts.
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Thread line wire or chain link support wire through the strainer's central spool.
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Anchor the strainer body securely to your strain post or corner bracket.
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Turn the ratchet inline winder using a spanner until the wire reaches optimal tension.
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The internal locking clip holds the tension automatically, preventing sag over time.