Is it time to stock up on fencing?

Replenish your fencing stocks before the cold spell hits

The Met Office has already begun issuing early warnings as the UK moves into another winter marked by unsettled conditions. Forecasts for early 2026 point to a familiar pattern of strong winds, heavy rainfall and an increased risk of localised flooding.

Following a year that delivered frequent spells of wet and windy weather, merchants should expect renewed pressure on fencing products. January is statistically the windiest UK month, making it a sensible time to review timber stocks and prepare for increased demand for replacement fence panels and posts.

Traditional timber fencing continues to dominate the replacement market, typically using vertical posts to support manufactured infill panels or fence rails fixed with boards, slats or pickets. These are popular with homeowners and contractors due to their familiarity, ease of repair and visual appeal.

Merchants may also wish to consider modern fencing solutions, which may offer greater resistance to wind loading. Acoustic fencing is increasingly specified where noise reduction is required near roads or busy environments. Agricultural fencing is also important, commonly using round timber posts with rail or wire infill, supplied as single strands or in a range of chain link and wire mesh formats.

Use the right treated timber

When ordering new stock, it is important to confirm that timber has been treated for its intended end use and that it is clearly labelled. Descriptions such as “green treated” or “brown treated” no longer provide customers with enough clarity. Instead, merchants should help buyers understand timber Use Classes and why they matter.

Preservative-treated softwood that will be in contact with the ground must meet Use Class 4 requirements. Lower treatment standards will shorten service life and increase the risk of premature failure.

Guidance from Timber Development UK and the Wood Protection Association sets out the different Use Classes and treatment options, while the Wood Products Database on the TDUK website provides further detail on the most common fencing products popular with merchant customers.