Slatted Fence

[derrynoose]

In the construction of a double-sided upright slatted wooden fence, should the spacings between the boards on one side be directly opposite the spacings on the other, or should they be offset?Thanks.

[The Builder]

entirely up to you Derry ................. if you stagger them (offset) then it's virtually a non see-through fence

[derrynoose]

Thanks, The Builder. It has been put to me that if they are offset there is more wind resistance and a greater risk that the fence will be damaged in a strong wind. It's my own view that the wind can still pass through if they are offset.

[buildersmate]

If you space one side exactly as opposite the spacing of the other side, as The Builder says, you get an opaque appearance fence - at least when viewed directly perpendicular to the line of the fence. It is undoubtedly true that the wind resistance would be greater than if you offset one side (when you can partially see through it).
The greatest wind resistance does occur if the wind is blowing perpendicualr to the line of the fence.
But I wouldn't worry about it - if you've done the fence post bases right, it ain't going to blow down in a hurry. It is more to do with your personal choice on appearance grounds.

[gazzawazza]

I would deffo stagger them.
It may cost you a little bit more, but I did it exactly level, and it\'s so annoying that you can still see through quite easily. Also next door\'s dog pokes his head through and barks! I keep telling myself to alter the blooming thing and as soon as I get time I will.

[montecatini]

We got about 50 foot of this style fence put up last year. Were offset half board out either side. This gives maximum privacy yet still allows some airflow. For even spacing fitted first board then used a spare board end on to give 3/4 inch gap than fitted next board. Did this along one side first then did same on other side starting with the first board half across the one on other side, Gave a very neat uniform finish.

[derrynoose]

Thanks,everybody. I am sharing the construction of the fence with my neighbour. He has a row of concrete posts set in concrete and has his side of the fence fixed in position with about a .75 inch gap between boards. His drive is higher than mine so the bottom of his boards are level with the top of the dividing/retaining wall between the properties. I can therefore see into his driveway quite clearly as gazzawazza says. The advice from yourselves about solidly planted posts and wind resistance have convinced me to go for offset!