How to Build a Slatted Fence

A modern look, easy to build – here’s how to do it right

Slatted fencing is one of the most popular projects we’re seeing at Wood Green Timber right now. Whether you’re replacing tired panels, screening off a garden room, or framing the front of your house, a slatted fence adds instant style and structure — and you don’t need to be a pro to build one.

This step-by-step guide walks you through how to build a slatted fence using our UC3 treated battens and timber posts — whether you’re going full height or creating a low decorative screen.

What You’ll Need (From Us)

• Treated timber battens – UC3 rated, in 18x44mm or 18x94mm

• Fence posts – smooth green treated or brown treated options

• Postmix – to secure posts (unless fixing to an existing frame)

• Stainless steel nails, screws or galvanised fixings

• Optional: timber treatment oil, stain, or exterior paint

Tools You’ll Need

• Drill/driver or nail gun (stainless brads only)

• Tape measure

• Spirit level or laser level

• Spacers (5mm recommended) or small offcuts

• Handsaw or mitre saw

• String line

• Rubber mallet

• Spade or post hole digger

Step 1: Set Your Posts

1. Mark your post positions — typical spacing is 1.8m–2.4m between posts.

2. Dig holes approx. 600mm deep (or deeper if it’s a high fence).

3. Drop each post in and use Postmix to secure — make sure they’re perfectly upright and aligned using a spirit level and string line.

4. Allow to set before moving on (approx. 20–30 mins with fast-set mix).

WGT Tip: If you're fixing to a wall or frame, use bolt-down post supports or brackets for speed.

Step 2: Plan Your Batten Layout

• Decide your fence height: standard heights include 900mm (front gardens), 1.2m (screens), or 1.8m (full privacy).

• Choose your batten size – wider boards (18x94mm) give more privacy, narrow (18x44mm) feels more open.

• Allow for 5mm gaps between battens — consistent gaps are key to getting that clean slatted look.

Pro tip: Cut a few 5mm spacers or use plastic tile spacers to keep everything even as you go.

Step 3: Fix Your Battens

1. Start at the bottom and work your way up.

2. Fix each batten to the front face of the posts using:

   • Stainless steel screws

   • Galvanised nails

   • Or a nail gun with stainless brads (if you’re quick and confident!)

3. Use your spacers between each row to keep gaps consistent.

4. Keep checking levels and alignment — step back every few rows to make sure it’s sitting straight.

Optional: For added strength, run a horizontal rail behind the middle of the fence and fix to that as well.

Step 4: Finishing Options

Your slatted fence is ready to go, but you’ve got plenty of finishing options depending on the look you want:

• Leave it natural – timber will gently silver over time

• Oil it – enhances the grain and protects against weathering

• Paint or stain – modern colours like black, grey or dark green are on trend

• Varnish – gives a sealed, satin finish and easy wipe-clean surface

WGT Tip: Whatever finish you go for, let the timber dry out fully after delivery before painting or oiling — especially in warm weather.

Want to Build Your Own?

Bring in your measurements or a rough sketch and we’ll help you figure out exactly how many battens, posts and fixings you’ll need. Whether it’s a front boundary, a side screen or a full garden upgrade, we’ll make sure you get it right first time.

Wood Green Timber — real materials, real advice, proper help.