What Fence Is Best for Windy Gardens in Chichester & West Sussex?
If your fence keeps blowing over, rattling, or failing during strong winds, you’re not alone. Wind damage is one of the most common fencing issues we see across Chichester and surrounding coastal and exposed areas.
In this guide, we’ll explain why fences fail in windy gardens, what fencing types perform best in exposed locations, and how to avoid repeating the same problems.
Why Fences Fail in Windy Gardens
Strong winds don’t just push against a fence — they exploit weaknesses.
The most common causes of failure are:
Lightweight fence panels acting like sails
Shallow or poorly set posts
Rotten timber posts
Poor ground conditions
Long, uninterrupted fence runs
In exposed areas of West Sussex, wind pressure can be relentless, especially during winter storms.
The Best Fence Type for Windy Gardens
Closeboard (Feather Edge) Fencing
For most windy gardens, closeboard fencing is the most reliable option.
Why it works well in wind:
Built on-site rather than dropped into slots
Boards overlap and can flex slightly
Strong horizontal rails distribute wind load
Individual boards can be replaced if damaged
When paired with concrete posts and gravel boards, closeboard fencing is far more resistant to storm damage than panel fencing.
Why Fence Panels Often Fail in Wind
Standard fence panels are popular because they’re quick to install — but they’re rarely ideal in exposed locations.
Common issues with panels:
Large solid surface catches wind
Entire panels fail at once
Slotted systems offer less flexibility
Repairs usually mean full panel replacement
Panels can work in sheltered gardens, but they’re often the reason fences keep needing repair in windy areas.
Concrete vs Timber Fence Posts in Windy Areas
Concrete Fence Posts (Recommended)
Don’t rot
Far stronger in high winds
Better long-term stability
Ideal for exposed or coastal gardens
Timber Fence Posts
Can work in sheltered locations
Vulnerable to rot at ground level
Shorter lifespan in damp or windy conditions
In most windy West Sussex gardens, concrete posts are the better long-term investment.
Fence Height & Wind Exposure
Taller fences catch more wind.
Key considerations:
6ft fences need stronger posts and fixings
Long runs should be broken up where possible
Correct post depth is critical
Ground conditions matter as much as materials
A well-installed 6ft fence can perform well — but only if it’s designed for the conditions.
Can Gaps in Fencing Reduce Wind Pressure?
In some cases, yes.
Options include:
Hit-and-miss fencing
Slatted fencing with spacing
Stepped fencing on slopes
However, these aren’t always suitable for privacy or boundary requirements. The right solution depends on your priorities.
Why Proper Installation Matters More Than Materials
Even the best fencing materials will fail if installed poorly.
Key installation factors include:
Correct post depth
Concrete footing size
Alignment and spacing
Fixing quality
Ground conditions
Most wind-damaged fences fail below ground, not above it.
Repairing vs Replacing a Wind-Damaged Fence
Sometimes repairs are possible — but often repeated wind damage means the fence was never suitable for the location.
Replacement is usually the better option if:
Posts are rotten or leaning
Panels keep failing
The fence has been repaired multiple times
Wind exposure hasn’t been accounted for
Fencing for Exposed & Coastal Gardens in Chichester
Choosing the right fence for a windy garden prevents ongoing repairs, saves money long-term, and gives you peace of mind during storms.
A fence designed for exposure:
Lasts longer
Requires fewer repairs
Looks better over time
Performs properly in bad weather
If you are from Chichester or its surrounding villages such as Bosham, Fishbourne, Southbourne, Westbourne, Lavant, Emsworth, Itchenor or the Witterings and you need a contractor, please see our Fencing service page and get in touch for a quo
