Brushwood fencing is a type of fence made from thin branches or twigs stacked together and bound with wire, tape, or other fastening methods.
In Australia, brush fencing is a popular choice for gardens as it is both affordable and decorative. Commercial brushwood fences are also popular as boundary fences, as they are difficult to climb or breach. Due to their many benefits, brushwood panels have applications other than fencing. Brush panels are suitable materials for feature walls, gazebos, gates, and pergola roofs. Average Brushwood fencing prices: Ranges from around $130 to $270 per lineal metre. Brushwood (does not allow for scaffolding if required) Labour Panel & Cappings $40 to $55pm (2 stage up to 1.8m) Labour Panel & Cappings $60 to $75pm (3 stage up to 2.6m) Labour Panel & Cappings $80 to $105pm (4 stage up to 3.3m) Materials $55pm Extras to fencing: Treated Pine Bases $40 per base installed or $18 pm. Core holes 52mm $28 each. Pool Thatching $30 pm
The process of creating brushwood fencing is relatively simple. First, the branches or twigs are collected and trimmed to the desired length. They are then stacked together in a fence-like formation and bound together with galvanised wire, tape, or other fastening methods. The finished brush fence should be sturdy and weatherproof. If you are creating a brushwood fence for your garden, it is important to choose the right type of branches or twigs. The most popular choices are willow, hazel, and blackthorn, as they are strong and durable. You can also use coniferous trees such as pine or spruce, but these tend to be less durable than other types of wood.
Brushwood fencing is a popular choice for a number of reasons.
Brushwood fencing is one of the cheapest types of fencing available.
Brushwood fences can be made to look very decorative, making them a popular choice for garden fences. You can install a brush fence to enhance the natural outlook of your yard.
Brushwood fences are very sturdy and difficult to breach, making them popular for boundary fences. The materials used to make brush fencing panels absorb sound. Brush fences are therefore good at reducing traffic noise.
Brushwood fences require very little maintenance, making them a hassle-free option. However, brushwood fencing does have some drawbacks, listed below.
It is not as secure as other types of fencing. Brushwood fences are not as secure as fences made from metal or concrete, for example.
It is not weatherproof: Brushwood fences can rot and decay if they are not treated regularly with a wood preserver.
It can be unsightly: Some people find the appearance of brushwood fencing to be messy.
It is not suitable in all geographical areas: Some people find that brushwood fencing attracts wasps, bees, or ants.
One natural alternative is wattle fencing. Wattles are woven between wooden posts in a similar way to brushwood fencing. However, wattles are typically are not as long lasting as brushwood fencing, meaning they will need more regular maintenance.
Another popular choice for garden fences is aluminium, which comes in a variety of styles and colours. If you live in an area where scrubland or woodland is abundant, you can also use split rail fencing. This type of fence is made from split logs planted in the ground.Brushwood fencing has many benefits, making it a popular choice for both homeowners and garden fence contractors. Brushwood fences are affordable compared to other options such as hardwood timber and metal fencing alternatives. A brushwood fence can enhance the natural appearance of the compound to match the garden's landscape. Brushwood fences are very strong and resilient. Heavy duty brush fences can withstand harsh weather and windy conditions like Western Australia. Brush fencing is therefore ideal for installation in exposed locations. Brush fencing panels require very little maintenance: Unlike other types of fences, brushwood does not require much in terms of regular maintenance, making it a hassle-free option. Brushwood does not rot: Because the branches and twigs used to make brushwood fences are generally allowed to dry out before they are bound together, it doesn't tend to rot or decay over time. This means that brushwood fencing is long lasting. It can last several decades without requiring any maintenance. Some of the leaves used to make brush fencing panels have natural oils that repel white ants, certain insects, and spiders preventing attacks. Birch, hazel, and willow often blend well with natural surroundings such as rivers and forests, so using these types of wood for your fence will help it merge with the landscape.
Building a brushwood fence is a relatively simple DIY process. The first step is to gather enough thin branches or twigs to create the desired height and width of your fence. Once you have gathered your materials, you will need to decide on the layout of your fence. If you are creating a new fence, use stakes and strings to mark out the desired shape and size. If you are repairing an existing fence, use caution when removing the old fence, as you may damage the underlying posts. Once you have marked out the desired shape and size of your fence, use a sharp knife or saw to cut the branches to the correct length. Then, using a strong adhesive, bind the branches together to form panels. Once the panels are dry, install them into the desired location and secure them in place with nails or screws. If you are using metal posts, attach the panels directly to the posts with wire. If you are using wooden posts, it is advisable to wrap the panels in chicken wire to prevent them from being chewed by animals. Once your fence is constructed, use a wood preserver to seal and protect it from weathering and decay. Also, capping the brush panels is highly recommended. Capping prevents the top edges from clipping and chipping, giving the brush fence a long life.
Brushwood fencing will last for many decades if it is properly maintained. The best way to maintain your brushwood fence is with a wood preserver, which should be applied at least once every year, depending on the severity of weather conditions.
The branches, twigs and leaves used to make brush fences are a renewable resource. If you replace the brush fence down the line, the materials can be ploughed back into the soil since they are biodegradable. Brushwood may be a little expensive to use as a rural fence for example.The cost of brushwood fencing in Australia largely depends on the quality and size of the materials used. For example, you can expect to pay around $3 per metre for untreated willow branches, but up to $8 per metre for pressure-treated pine fence pickets. The cost of installing a brushwood fence also varies, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Generally, you can expect to pay between $10 and $25 per metre for professional installation.
Brushwood fencing panels are bulky, with weights ranging from 50kg. Additional freight costs can be high.
For those looking for more information on hiring someone for a fencing job, take a look at this guide from the New South Wales Department of Fair Trading. Check if similar regulations apply in your area.