Post and Rail Fencing in Exeter
Professional post and rail fencing services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£50-80/m
Typical Duration
Day+
Location
Exeter, Devon
Traditional post and rail fencing for boundaries, gardens, and paddocks. Solid posts, straight rails, proper rural fencing that looks right and lasts.
Classic Fencing Done Properly
Post and rail is traditional boundary fencing - clean lines, open style, perfect for rural properties or anywhere you want a boundary without blocking the view. We set solid posts and fit rails properly so you get fencing that looks right and stands up to Devon weather.
💡 Pro tip: Post spacing matters. Standard is 2.4-3m centres for strength, but we can adjust to suit your site. Closer spacing costs more but looks better on shorter runs.
Done Right vs Done Wrong
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| Posts set deep and plumb | Posts leaning after first winter |
| Rails fitted level and secure | Wonky rails pulling free |
| Consistent spacing throughout | Random gaps and heights |
| Proper ground clearance | Rails touching soil and rotting |
What You Get
🔧 The Full Service
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Site Survey | Measure run, mark post positions, check levels and obstacles |
| Set Posts | Dig holes 600mm+ deep, set posts plumb in concrete, leave to cure |
| Fit Rails | Cut rails to length, mortise or bracket-fix to posts, check alignment |
| Finishing | Final check of levels and fixings, site cleanup, waste removal |
📦 You're Left With
- Straight, level post and rail fence
- Posts solidly set in concrete
- Professional finish throughout
- Site cleared and tidy
Pricing Guide
Post and rail fencing is quoted per metre based on:
- Number of rails - 2-rail cheaper than 3-rail
- Run length - Longer runs = better per-metre price
- Ground conditions - Rocky or sloped ground costs more
- Access - Difficult access adds labour time
Typical cost: £50-80 per metre supply and fit. Call for exact quote.
Perfect For Your Project If...
✅ Rural Boundaries - You need traditional fencing for gardens, paddocks, or field boundaries
✅ Open Style Wanted - You want a boundary that doesn't block views or light
✅ Horse/Livestock - You're fencing for animals and need something appropriate and safe
✅ Period Properties - You want fencing that suits an older rural property's character
Why Choose Us for Post and Rail Fencing in Exeter?
Traditional open boundary style
Durable treated timber posts
Perfect for gardens and paddocks
Clean, rural aesthetic
What to Expect
Step 1: Site Visit
We walk your boundary line, measure the run, discuss rail configuration (2 or 3-rail), and check for any complications. You get a written quote per metre.
Step 2: Materials & Scheduling
Once you approve the quote, we order treated timber and schedule the work. We'll give you realistic timeframes including concrete curing time.
Step 3: Installation
We mark post positions, dig and set posts first. After 24-48hrs for concrete to cure, we return to fit the rails. Keeps us honest on alignment.
Step 4: Completion
Final walk-through to check you're happy with alignment and finish. We clear all waste, level any disturbed ground, and provide aftercare advice.
🔧 DIY Tips
Post and rail looks simple but requires decent carpentry and setting-out skills:
🔧 What you'll need
- Post hole digger or auger
- 6ft spirit level
- String line and stakes
- Concrete and mixing tools
📐 How to do it
- Mark your fence line with string pulled tight between stakes
- Mark post positions (2.4m or 3m centres work well)
- Dig holes 600mm deep minimum
- Set corner/end posts first, perfectly plumb and aligned
- Run string line between end posts for intermediate post alignment
- Let all posts cure 48hrs before fitting rails
- Cut rails to span between post centres
- Mortise holes or use rail brackets - both work if done properly
- Work one bay at a time, checking each rail is level
⚠️ Common mistakes
- Irregular post spacing (looks terrible and wastes timber)
- Not letting posts set before loading them with rails
- Rails cut too short - gaps open up as timber shrinks
- Bottom rail too close to ground (rots quickly)
💡 Pro trick: Set your bottom rail at least 150mm off the ground. Yes, small animals can get under, but your rail lasts years longer. If you need ground-level security, add wire mesh separately.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🔧 Multi-day job: Posts need setting time before rails can be fitted. We'll schedule efficiently but won't compromise by rushing concrete cure times.
Combine with:
- Stock wire/mesh for animal security
- Garden gates to match
- Gravel boards for decorative lower sections
Related services:
- Garden gate installation
- Picket fence installation
- Security fencing
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 2-rail and 3-rail fencing?
2-rail is simpler and cheaper, usually used for decorative boundaries or where you just need to mark the line. 3-rail is stronger and better if you're keeping animals in (or out), or want a more substantial fence. We'll advise which suits your needs and budget.
How long does post and rail fencing last?
With proper treated posts and rails, you're looking at 15-20 years minimum. The posts go first usually, so we set them deep in concrete or use postcrete. Rails can be replaced individually if needed without redoing the whole fence.
Can you match existing post and rail fencing?
We'll do our best to match style, height, and spacing. New timber won't match the colour of weathered fencing straight away - it'll grey naturally over 6-12 months. If exact matching matters, we can discuss staining options, but that adds cost and maintenance.
Is post and rail fencing suitable for keeping dogs in?
Not on its own - dogs can slip through the gaps easily. But we can add mesh or wire to the back of post and rail which gives you the look you want with the security you need. It's a common request and works well.
Post and Rail Fencing Also Available In:
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