Birkdale has supplied its DuraPost galvanised steel fence post system, including the recently launched Vento composite fence panels, for a self-build project in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.
The fencing specialist’s solution was selected due to its ease of install and durability, as well as the 15-year fence panel guarantee.
After deciding to purchase a new fence to add privacy at the front of their property, it was essential for homeowner Trevor Barker that the chosen system would be hardwearing and durable. It also needed to be easy to install as Trevor was intending to undertake the work himself.
Through a recommendation, Trevor found the solution. Birkdale’s DuraPost galvanised steel fence posts, combined with composite Vento fence panels and gravel boards offered a complete solution from one single source of supply – and it ticked all the right boxes.
DuraPost fence posts have an excellent strength-to-weight ratio that matches the durability of heavier concrete alternatives. The use of galvanised steel, combined with Birkdale’s manufacturing process (where steel is cut and cold rolled through a specially made die to create a unique, patented H-section profile), reinforces the strength of DuraPost even further.
Incredibly lightweight and easy to install too, the process can be carried out by one person – whereas concrete usually requires at least two trade professionals – and was notably far safer for Trevor to undertake, as each 8ft fence post weighs just 7kg.
Once the DuraPosts were erected, Vento fence panels were then added. Produced from a durable blend of waste rice husks and a minimum of 60% recycled plastic pellets, the panel is naturally resistant to rotting, splitting, warping and cracking and is tested to withstand wind speeds of up to 110mph.
Each Vento composite board is slotted into three horizontal aluminium cross rails at the top, middle and base of each panel. These cross rails only require six screws per panel for a secure fix that locks the boards into place.
Installed in a ‘Hit and Miss’ style, rather than the traditional close-board design, the panels, posts and gravel boards were erected in matching Anthracite Grey along the perimeter of the property’s front garden.
“We wanted to find a fence that I could easily construct in my own time,” commented Trevor. “Thanks to DuraPost’s lightweight and simple installation process, I could do just that, completing the project in under five hours.”
Finally, the sustainability of Birkdale’s fencing solution was an added bonus for the homeowner, offering excellent credentials to match its high performance. In addition to Vento’s production from recycled plastic and waste materials, DuraPost fence posts are made from up to 50% recycled galvanised steel and are 100% recyclable, while DuraPost gravel boards can also be recycled up to ten times at end-of-life. What’s more, DuraPost is manufactured and stocked in the UK, helping to significantly cut down required transportation and reduce vehicle emissions.
“We’re thrilled with the final result,” added Trevor. “The 15-year Vento warranty is fantastic. We can trust our fence panels to be durable for years to come. Plus, it looks really smart and attractive next to our home.”
