Fencing with Trees on Boundary Lines

UK Guide: Fencing with Trees on The Boundary Lines

Introduction

Have you got a whacking great tree on your property that's sitting right on your fencing line? This scenario can be tricky, but there are several strategies you can use to manage this situation effectively. At Sheridan Fencing, we understand the importance of maintaining your boundary whilst accommodating the natural beauty of your landscape. Here are a few options we can discuss to help you decide how much ground you wish to lose—or not.

Fencing Methods

1. Bite the Bullet and Fence in Front of the Tree

One straightforward option is to fence in front of the tree, sacrificing a bit of ground. This method is the least complicated and involves simply drawing your boundary line in front of the tree, leaving the tree outside your fenced area.

Pros:

•  Simplicity: This is the easiest solution, requiring minimal adjustments.
• Avoid Root Damage: By not disturbing the tree roots, you prevent potential harm to the tree.

Cons:

• Loss of Space: You lose a portion of your property behind the tree.
• Aesthetic Impact: This might not be the most visually appealing solution, especially if the tree is significant and adds value to your landscape.

2. Create a Dogleg Around the Tree

A more creative approach is to create a dogleg in your fence around the tree. This involves angling the fence around the tree, thus preserving more of your ground whilst maintaining a continuous boundary.

Pros:

• Maximise Space: You retain more usable space in your garden.
• Aesthetic Appeal: This method can be visually interesting and integrate the tree into your landscape design.

Cons:

• Potential Root Disturbance: There is a risk of damaging tree roots, depending on how close you place the posts to the tree.
• Boundary Line Placement: The dogleg must be created on your side of the boundary, which means you may still lose some ground.

Steps for Creating a Dogleg Fence:
1. Plan the Route: Determine the path of your fence around the tree, ensuring you have enough posts to support the structure. Remember, the dogleg must be on your side of the boundary line.
2. Mark Post Locations: Mark where each post will go, maintaining a consistent distance from the tree to avoid damaging roots.
3. Install Posts and Rails: Install the posts and connect them with rails, following the planned route around the tree.

 3. Use Multiple Posts to Outline the Tree

Another approach is to use multiple posts to outline the tree, creating a more intricate and closely fitted boundary that keeps most of your ground whilst preserving the true boundary line. This method also requires careful consideration of the tree's trunk and roots, which can still result in some loss of ground around the tree.

Pros:

• True Boundary: Maintains the actual boundary line of your property.
• Space Preservation: Keeps most of your ground intact whilst accommodating the tree.

Cons:

• Installation Challenges: Positioning multiple posts around the tree can be more complex and time-consuming.
•  Potential Root Disturbance: Increased number of posts might disturb more roots.
• Ground Loss: You may still lose some ground around the tree due to the need to navigate around the trunk and roots.

Steps for Outlining the Tree:
1. Assess the Tree's Shape: Carefully examine the tree's trunk and root spread to determine the best positioning for your posts.
2. Mark Post Locations: Mark several points around the tree where the posts will be installed, ensuring they form a smooth outline.
3. Install Posts and Connect Rails: Place the posts as marked and connect them with rails, ensuring the fence smoothly follows the tree's contour.

4. Use the Tree as Part of the Fence

If you want to keep the true boundary line, you can incorporate the tree into your fence. This involves running the fence up to one side of the tree and then starting again on the other side. With this method, you're at the mercy of the trunk and roots when positioning your posts.

Pros:

• True Boundary: You maintain the actual boundary line of your property.
•  Unique Design: This method creates a unique, natural look that highlights the tree.

Cons:

• Installation Challenges: Positioning posts close to the tree can be difficult due to the trunk and roots.
• Potential Tree Damage: There is a risk of damaging the tree if posts are placed too close to the trunk or if roots are cut.
• Ground Loss: Similar to the multiple post method, you may still lose some ground around the tree.

 Steps for Incorporating the Tree:
1. Assess the Tree: Determine the best approach for integrating the tree into your fence. Ensure the tree is healthy and won't be harmed by the fence.
2. Place Posts Carefully: Position your posts as close to the tree as possible without disturbing the trunk or major roots.
3. Construct the Fence: Build the fence up to the tree on both sides, securing it firmly.

Why Choose Sheridan Fencing for your Boundary Line?

At Sheridan Fencing, we believe in providing personalised solutions to meet your specific needs. Here's why you should consider working with us:

• Expert Consultation: We discuss all options with you before proceeding, helping you decide how much ground you wish to lose—or not. Our goal is to ensure you are fully satisfied with the outcome.
• Professional Experience: With years of experience in the fencing industry, we have the expertise to handle complex situations involving trees and other obstacles on the boundary line.
• Quality Workmanship: We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality fencing solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
• Local installers for Medway, Gravesend, Maidstone,Sittingbourne and North Kent.
  

Frequently Asked Questions About boundaries with Trees on The Line (FAQ)

1. Q: Which method is the most cost-effective?
  A: Generally, fencing in front of the tree is the most cost-effective as it requires the least amount of materials and labour. However, this may not always be the best solution depending on your specific needs and the value you place on your garden space.

2. Q: Will any of these methods damage the tree?
  A: All methods can be implemented with minimal risk to the tree if done correctly. However, methods that involve placing posts near the tree (such as outlining the tree or using it as part of the fence) require extra care to avoid damaging roots.

3. Q: Do I need permission from my neighbour to implement any of these methods?
  A: If the tree is on the boundary line, it's always best to discuss your plans with your neighbour. For the dogleg method or using the tree as part of the fence, you'll definitely need to reach an agreement as these methods affect the boundary line.

4. Q: What if the tree grows larger over time?
  A: This is an important consideration. Methods like fencing in front of the tree or creating a dogleg allow more space for growth. If you use the tree as part of the fence or outline it closely, you may need to adjust the fence in the future as the tree grows.

5. Q: Can these methods be used with any type of fencing material?
  A: Most of these methods can be adapted to work with various fencing materials. However, some materials may be more flexible or easier to work with when creating curves or angles around trees.

6. Q: What if there are multiple trees along my boundary line?
  A: You can use a combination of these methods depending on the placement and size of each tree. We recommend a professional assessment to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

7. Q: How does this affect property value?
  A: Properly executed fencing that integrates trees can enhance your property's aesthetic appeal and potentially increase its value. However, losing significant garden space might have a negative impact. Consider the balance between boundary clarity and garden aesthetics.

8. Q: Are there any legal considerations I should be aware of?
  A: Yes, there can be. It's important to ensure you're not encroaching on your neighbour's property. Additionally, some trees may be protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Always check with your local council before making any significant changes involving trees.

Conclusion

Dealing with a tree on your boundary line can be challenging, but it also offers an opportunity to create a unique and functional fencing solution. Whether you choose to fence in front of the tree, create a dogleg around it, outline it with multiple posts, or incorporate the tree directly into your fence, each method has its own benefits and drawbacks. By considering these options carefully and planning accordingly with Sheridan Fencing, you can maintain your property boundary whilst preserving the natural beauty of your tree.

Remember, at Sheridan Fencing, we're here to help you navigate these decisions and implement the best solution for your specific situation. Don't hesitate to reach out with any other questions you might have!


Sheridan fencing - Dave Relf