3 reasons why you need a fence plinth 

Did you know that using a whipper snipper to trim the grass along your fence can damage the protective treatment? This damage accelerates the rotting process by allowing moisture to penetrate the inside of the timber, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. Fortunately, there's a simple solution to prevent this issue: installing a fence plinth. Here are three compelling reasons why you need one.

What is a fence plinth?

An under-fence plinth is a solid length of material, typically timber, installed at the bottom of a fence, directly beneath the palings. It acts as a protective barrier between the fence and the ground, keeping the palings away from any moisture that may sit on the earth and giving you a flat surface to use a whipper snipper or line trimmer against. Popular choices for plinths include hardwood, pine, and concrete sleepers, which are commonly used in retaining walls due to their durability and treatment for in-ground use. These materials are favoured because they resist rot and decay, extending the life of your fence by protecting it from damage caused by yard maintenance tools like whipper snippers.

Why do I need an under-fence plinth?

Installing an under-fence plinth offers several benefits that can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. Here’s why you should consider adding one to your fence.

• Protect your treated timber from early rot: Once the treatment on the outer layer of the timber is removed, it becomes vulnerable to moisture and pests. This leads to internal rotting or pest damage, compromising the structural integrity of the wood. A fence plinth provides an extra layer of protection, preventing these issues.
• Save time and money on repairs and maintenance: A fence is an investment meant to last for years. Constantly replacing palings and posts due to moisture and pest damage can become expensive. A plinth acts as a barrier against these elements, reducing the need for frequent repairs. If a plinth does need replacing, it's an easy and budget friendly fix compared to replacing the entire fence.
• Create a cohesive look and feel for your fence: Whether you’re building a lapped and capped pine fence or a regular butted fence, a plinth enhances the overall design. It provides a clean, flat edge for trimming, preventing damage to the fence itself. This not only maintains the fence's appearance but also ensures it stays functional and durable.

By adding a fence plinth, you ensure your fence remains sturdy and looks good for years to come, while significantly cutting down on maintenance costs and efforts.

Do I need to change the height of my fence posts?

Yes, installing a fence plinth will add height to your fence. Since the palings will need to sit above the plinth to avoid damage, you'll need to adjust the height of your posts accordingly. Here’s how to do it:

You’ll need to account for the width of the plinth or sleeper you choose. For example, if you’re using a standard 2.4m post with 1.8m palings, you’ll need to increase the post height to ensure the top of the palings still align with the top of the posts.

Most sleepers range between 500-750 mm in width. However, you don’t need to add this full width to the fence post height because a portion of the post will be set in the ground. For instance, you’ll want a post that is around 2.7m long instead of the standard 2.4m - this will give your post an extra 300 mm to sit in line with the palings whilst still staying secure in the ground.

Now that I know I need a fence plinth, which one do I buy?

We sell a diverse range of landscaping supplies where you’ll be able to find the right sleeper for your fence. You can visit our warehouse in Narangba to click & collect your order or place an order online for next-day delivery.