Sloping land can greatly complicate the task of setting up a fence. The fence needs to run alongside the landscape, with suitable heights, good posts and an appealing appearance.
Two common options for fences on slopes are stepped fencing and raked fencing.
A stepped fence has level parts that gradually decrease in height as they descend the slope. Each individual section of the fence is horizontal, and the fence as a whole takes on the shape of a staircase. This might be useful for panels that are factory made and can’t be bent easily enough to follow the angles of the land.
By contrast, raked fencing follows the contours of the land more tightly. The top and bottom of the fence tilt gradually rather than remaining horizontal. This can give a better overall look to the fence, with panels that are appropriate for sloping installation.
Ground clearance is an important concern with either type of fence. Large gaps below the fence line could create a problem if one has pets that need to stay on the property. They can also be a concern for privacy and looks.
Installation of the actual post is also critical, with sloping land. Erosion and drainage can undermine fence posts, and appropriate post footing and drainage become more important.
Gates need additional thought on sloping land. A swing gate opening uphill might well meet resistance from the rising land unless there is good clearance provided. Alternatively, opening downhill might be a viable option, but that depends on the configuration of the land.
Sliding gates might be another option for some sloping driveways, but the direction of the slope and the space alongside the driveway matter significantly.
Companies involved in fence and gate installation, including BTS Industries, often need to take site levels and access conditions into account before deciding how individual sections should be configured.
Drainage should not be overlooked either. Fence building should avoid unintentionally obstructing natural water flow or causing locations where soil and water accumulate against structural components.
Accurate measurement is particularly valuable on a slope. The differences in height that seem insignificant over a short distance may add up substantially over a long boundary.
A sloping site does not necessarily restrict the options of fencing, but requires more detailed planning. The choice between stepped and raked construction, careful positioning of posts and anticipation of gate movement before can make a much neater and more practical job.
