Fencing & Decking

Are you galvanised to try steel?

In the past, landscapers have only been able to choose between timber or concrete fence post solutions. However, the development of galvanised steel fence posts means that there is now a further alternative. John Abernethie, Managing Director at Birkdale takes a look at the performance, installation and aesthetic benefits of these solutions

Landscapers are always looking for ways to make gardens and outdoor spaces look more attractive. When it comes to specifying a material for fence posts, timber is a popular option. This material is able to complement almost any garden design, due to the authentically natural aesthetic it provides. However, the material’s lack of durability can cause a number of issues. If left untreated, the base of the post can rot within five years, causing the whole structure to weaken and eventually break, meaning replacements are frequently needed. Moreover, with the impact of climate change, extreme weather events are becoming more common. Timber fence posts do not always have the strength to withstand the sheer force of many of the storms the UK increasingly faces – leading to damage and destruction.

Concrete v timber

Aware of these weaknesses, many landscapers opt instead for concrete solutions. A far stronger alternative, concrete is able to resist strong winds and has a far longer functional life expectancy of around twenty years. On the other hand, concrete does not possess the same aesthetic benefits as timber. Rather, due to the bulkiness and colour of concrete posts, this solution

stands out, and impedes the look of an outdoor space. Furthermore, whilst concrete is very strong, it is also extremely heavy, causing a number of issues when it comes to installation. The weight of the product can put physical pressure on landscapers, increasing the risk of injury and meaning a number of people are required for installation. Transportation to site can also be difficult, as the size and weight of concrete posts limits the number that can be carried or loaded into a van. As such, installation can be a slow, labour intensive and costly process. In addition, although concrete is more robust than timber, it is still prone to chipping and hairline cracks, which can lead to water ingress, causing the structure to weaken and eventually snap.

Galvanised steel

Recently, galvanised steel has been gaining popularity within the fencing market as an alternative that can overcome all these challenges. A highly durable material, this solution will not rot, warp or crack over time, regardless of weather conditions. It also does not require any maintenance, so is a cost-effective option in the long run.

Up to 80% lighter than concrete, galvanised steel systems are far easier to install, requiring only one tradesperson. Furthermore, due to their light weight, more posts can be loaded into a van and transported to site in one trip. This also makes the solution ideal for the environmentally conscious, helping landscapers to cut their emissions by minimising journeys to and from site. What’s more, galvanised steel is 100% recyclable at the end of its working life, unlike concrete, which according to The Guardian, contributes to 4-8% of the world’s CO2 1 .

Although a lighter alternative, galvanised steel is still able to match concrete for strength. This was recently demonstrated when the Building Research Establishment Ltd (BRE) strength tested Birkdale’s DuraPost® system and it was proven to withstand wind speeds of up to 110 mph, the equivalent of 625kg of force.

The strength of galvanised steel fence posts is largely due to its impressive strength-to-weight ratio. In the case of DuraPost®, its manufacturing process ensures that the galvanised steel is cut and cold rolled through a specially made die to create a unique, patented H-section profile. This also means the posts are available in slim line profiles that are less intrusive on existing garden aesthetics.

What’s more, galvanised steel post solutions are available in a range of colours, including the popular Anthracite Grey, Olive Grey and Sepia Brown. In this way, these products offer landscapers outstanding design flexibility, helping to enhance the aesthetic of any garden space. Untreated galvanised steel posts are also available, providing a strong, long-lasting product that is ideal for use alongside pre-existing concrete and commercial environments, and at a highly competitive price point to traditional concrete systems.

Overall, galvanised steel fencing systems provide landscapers with a modern fence post solution that can harness the benefits of both concrete and timber. In order to maximise these advantages and ensure product quality, it is crucial that galvanised steel systems are sourced from a recognised manufacturer.

1 https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2019/feb/25/ concrete-the-most-destructive-material-on-earth

Durable weather resistant MDF creates stunning roof terrace and BBQ area

A once neglected roof terrace on the top of a luxury private residence in South Kensington, London, has been transformed by Paul Newman Landscapes, using MEDITE® TRICOYA® EXTREME (MTX) in two exciting applications.

The ground-breaking, weather resistant, outdoor MDF panel was used both as an underlay for artificial grass in the garden area and to construct a BBQ unit – both of which have been, and will continue, to be exposed to the elements in all seasons.

Working as a landscape designer for over 20 years, Paul Newman, however, is totally confident in his decision: “The reputation of MTX precedes it,” he explains. “I had only heard good things about MTX before using it for the first time on this project. After achieving such great results here, I have used it on many projects with confidence ever since.”

Paul Newman Landscapes, based in Hertfordshire, was commissioned to design, build and install all elements of the £85,000 project for the private penthouse residence. It encompassed a leisure garden with privacy screening, a children’s play area and a lounge and dining space, including the BBQ installation.

The BBQ unit is unrecognisable as MDF, appearing strong, tidy and finished to a high standard in an RAL navy blue tone.

“The BBQ itself is safely self-contained. The entire unit features a granite worktop, while the front and sides are all MTX. There are also stainless-steel inserts running through the structure for support,” says Paul.

“It was quite a task,” he continues, “as it was a central London site, on the rooftop of a prestigious building. There are permits to navigate and certain criteria to meet.

“In specifying MTX, though, there was no fuss from the council and all plans were agreed to quickly. The panels, supplied by James Latham, were hoisted into place with the use of a mobile crane, and all materials were on site in one day, so we could get to work quickly.”

A BBQ is one thing, but laying an artificial lawn over MDF is quite another. Paul explains how this idea came into effect. “MTX is extremely dense and smooth, friendlier to the environment than plastic on account of it producing less waste and the fact that it is manufactured with FSC certified timber. Furthermore, its 50-year guarantee above ground, and even below artificial grass, makes it extremely reliable. These were all the specifications we needed.

“You can shape it, cut it, paint it, drill it – and it will still perform the same. So, we simply drilled drainage holes into 18mm thick panels which were then screwed directly onto joists and the artificial grass bonded to this.

“It’s also extremely helpful that MTX is readily available in a range of thicknesses and sizes, which we make good use of. It can be finished in any colour, giving us choice and versatility.”

“All in all, this is a panel you can trust in terms of longevity and performance,” Paul surmises.

The end result of this project is an opulent roof terrace that encourages relaxation in an ambiance of private calm. A soft colour palette of blues and greys, offset with ambient lighting produce a luxurious, serene space, while the amenity of cooking facilities mean endless summers can be spent up here, away from the bustle below.

Discover more about MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME at

www.mdfosb.com