TIMBER FUNCTIONALITY FUELS FENCING SALES
Following a storm-heavy winter, demand for durable fencing remains strong – but there’s also a noticeable shift in end customers customers’ priorities as BMJ finds out.
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more considered approach to outdoor spaces means that function, flexibility and design are equally important when it comes to fencing choice. One of the more prominent developments in the fencing market is the rising popularity of PAR (Planed All Round) timber. With all sides planed smooth, PAR timber offers clean, consistent dimensions that are easy to work with – qualities that appeal to both trade professionals and DIYers. The material’s smooth surface lends itself well to cutting and shaping, making it especially useful for accommodating uneven terrain or sloping gardens where fixed- size panels may fall short.
Nigel McKillop, commercial director at Premier Forest Products, says that what’s interesting is the way PAR fencing supports greater design freedom. “Unlike standard fence panels, PAR components can be sized to fit bespoke layouts or tight spaces. The ability to mix widths and play with height variations means fencing is no longer purely functional, it’s becoming part of the overall garden design,” he says, adding that, when ordering PAR for outdoor use, merchants should make sure to stock pressure treated PAR for durability in external applications.
Durability is still key Despite the visual and design-led shift in fencing, durability remains a critical consideration, especially after the extreme weather events of recent years. Pressure- treated timber continues to be a go-to for those seeking longevity. The treatment process, which involves forcing preservative chemicals deep into the timber, improves resistance to fungi and insect attack and significantly extends product lifespan.
McKillop says that there’s also a growing appetite for painted finishes, particularly darker tones like black, which contrast well with planting and modern landscaping schemes. He says: “When combined with profiles like feather edge, this aesthetic adds a sleek, contemporary edge to the garden while retaining the resilience needed for British weather conditions. “PAR timber is also a relatively cost-effective alternative to some of the more stylised options like decorative screen panels, which, while still popular, are having a quieter year in 2025.”
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Tackling noise pollution Noise management is another area seeing growth. As urban density increases, fencing is being asked to do more than mark boundaries and now it’s increasingly being used to mitigate sound from roads, railways, and commercial activity. The market for acoustic fencing is growing as more planners and homeowners seek effective sound reduction solutions. Modern acoustic fencing systems are engineered to reflect noise. Typically constructed from interlocking boards with acoustic sealants, these systems are designed to reduce sound, with, for example, Premier Forest’s offering a reduction of up to 26 decibels. This level of performance makes them suitable for residential, commercial, and infrastructure applications alike.
“At Premier Forest, our acoustic panels are built from joinery-grade Scandinavian redwood, assembled using a tongue and groove V-joint format. This construction enhances both strength and soundproofing capability,” McKillop explains.
Scaled solutions
The company has noted an increasing segmentation of acoustic solutions for different project scales. While smaller panels like the 1.8m x 1.8m Duchy Acoustic Fence cater to domestic noise reduction, ideal for properties near roads or railway lines, larger format options such as the Premier Reflect Acoustic Barrier are gaining traction in public sector and commercial settings. These are available in a choice of heights and can be mixed and matched up to 5 metres in height, offering flexibility for larger installations. McKillop adds that security is also a
consideration as many of these systems are designed with anti-climb features, making them suitable for locations requiring both noise management and physical deterrence. “Our acoustic panels are made-to-order, so merchants can order what they need, when they need it, rather than taking up space in the yard. We can also deliver direct-to-site on behalf of our stockist customers. In addition, we supply the components that end customers need for fence installation, so merchants can offer them a complete acoustic fencing package,” he says.
Full system thinking
As specifications become more comprehensive, the market is also moving toward integrated fencing solutions, with customers seeking packages that include posts, rails, capping, gravel boards, and fixings in one order. Suppliers are responding with coordinated supply options, including direct-to-yard, and direct-to-site delivery for larger schemes. McKillop says that sustainability remains a growing factor in purchasing decisions. “The availability of responsibly sourced materials, including FSC certified timber and PEFC certified timber, is no longer a bonus but an expectation. At Premier Forest, we continue to offer options that align with these values,” he explains.
The fencing market in 2025 reflects a broader shift across construction and landscaping – performance and aesthetics are no longer separate considerations. From noise mitigation to design versatility, fencing is evolving and manufacturers and merchants are adapting to meet the demands of increasingly informed, design-conscious customers. BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net August 2025
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