How easy is it to install composite fencing? A friendly guide to DIY installation

Did you know that you can transform your outdoor space effortlessly with composite fencing? Our innovative panels slot together seamlessly, giving you a flawless finish without the need for nails or screws. Whether you’re installing at home or for a business, composite fencing is not only easy to set up but also eco-friendly.

However, the type of ground you’re working with can impact the installation process. This guide will walk you through the installation of Select Living composite fencing on various surfaces, including soft ground, solid flat ground, and slopes.

By the end of this blog you will know whether you’re confident enough to install the fencing yourself, or if you would want to get an approved installer to make your life a little bit easier!

Why choose composite fencing?

Composite fencing, or WPC (wood plastic composite), is a material made from 90% recycled materials—wood fibres and plastic. Composite is considered eco-friendly because using these recycled materials means that no new trees are cut down, and waste plastic is kept out of our environment.

Composite is usually chosen over wooden and PVC fencing because it offers a blend of durability and low maintenance, and is perfect for the eco-conscious homeowner. You can read more about how composite fencing compares in our blog here.

How easy is it to install composite fencing?

The ease of installation depends on how confident you are with DIY projects and the type of ground you’ll be working on. If you’re a seasoned DIYer, you’ll find that our easy-to-follow installation guide makes the process straightforward and enjoyable. You can download the full, detailed guide here.

However, if your fence will be installed on a slope, you might want to consider hiring a professional. Fitting fencing on a gradient requires cutting the fence boards to match the angle of the ground—a task that might be best left to the pros. 

Before you get started

Shopping List

To get started, you’ll need more than just our fencing set. Here’s a handy list of tools you will need:

• Hammer drill (if using a bolt system) with masonry drill bits
• Postcrete (if using a ground spike system)
• Mitre saw
• Circular saw
• Spirit level
• Shovel
• Ratchet
• Tape measure
• Safety glasses and personal protection equipment (PPE)
• Rubber mallet

If you don’t have all these tools, it might be worth getting an approved installer to help out. Or, if you’re looking to install the fence yourself, but don’t fancy expanding your toolkit there is always the option of hiring equipment from your local hardware supplier!

Planning your fencing project

Before you start, measure the area where your fencing will be installed. For those using Select Living composite fencing, divide the length of your fencing area by 1860mm to figure out how many fencing sets you’ll need. 

It’s also essential to determine whether you’ll be using a bolt system (for solid flat ground) or ground spikes (for soft surfaces). 

Installing your fencing: step-by-step

Installing fencing posts on solid flat surfaces

When installing on surfaces like concrete or masonry, you’ll use a bolt system:

1. Position the post support, ensuring it is level and square.
2. Mark where the bolts will fix the support to the ground using the pilot holes.
3. Secure the post support firmly with expansion bolts.
4. Slide the post over the support so that it’s held securely in place, with the support concealed.
5. Measure between posts to ensure they are 1860mm apart for the fencing boards to fit snugly.

Installing fencing posts on soft surfaces

For soil or grass surfaces, use ground spikes:

1. Measure where the first post will be and dig a 50mm deep hole.
2. Insert the ground spike, ensuring it’s level.
3. Fill the hole with postcrete, then insert the spike into the postcrete.
4. Ensure the post is straight before the postcrete sets.
5. Slide the post over the spike, ensuring it’s secure and concealed.
6. Measure between posts to maintain the 1860mm distance.

Installing fencing on mixed surfaces

If your fence will span both solid and soft surfaces, make sure you have enough of each fixing mechanism. Follow the above steps for the respective surface types.

Installing fencing boards

1. Insert the bottom tray and secure it by screwing into the posts.
2. Hold the first board between the posts, flat edge down, and slot it into the grooves.
3. Slide the board to the bottom, ensuring it locks into the tray.
4. Stack the boards (up to seven), locking them together as you go.
5. Fit and secure the top tray by screwing it into the posts.

Installing post covers

Finally, insert the top post covers onto the fence posts.

Installing fencing on a gradient

For slopes, there are two methods:

1. Mitre the boards at each end to match the slope, so the panels run parallel with the ground.

2. Cut the bottom board to mirror the gradient, keeping the panels horizontal.

Easy maintenance post-installation

The best part about composite fencing is how low maintenance it is. Once installed—whether by you or a professional—it requires minimal upkeep. A quick clean now and then is all it takes to keep your fence looking great.

Conclusion

If you want to tackle the installation yourself, we highly recommend downloading our full comprehensive guide. It provides all the detailed instructions you’ll need beyond this overview. Download it for free here—it's packed with easy-to-follow steps and illustrations.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help make your fencing project as smooth as possible.