RAPTOR ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION LTD
Leaning posts, gates that won’t latch or failing external timber need a practical fix — we assess post condition, ground and access then recommend repair, replacement or a new installation. Send clear photos and your postcode so we can advise whether a site visit is needed; we set out what the job will involve in writing before any work is agreed.
AN INTRODUCTION / 08
Start by describing the problem and attaching clear photos.
A fallen panel or a gate with a rotten post needs inspection to assess what’s visible and set out practical options: repair where it will last, replace when it won’t, or build bespoke gates and timber features. Describe access, ground slope and whether the fence sits on a shared boundary so we can outline the next steps and a sensible scope for a site survey.
EXPLORE THE OPTIONSOUR SERVICES / 08
From a small fence repair to new boundary fencing or general carpentry around the garden, we handle the practical timberwork. We check post foundations, board condition, gate hangings and whether slopes or hidden services affect installation, then provide clear written recommendations and a breakdown of what is included in the price.
Planning a new fence to improve privacy or secure the garden starts with checking ground levels, boundary lines and vehicle or pedestrian access. We set posts to suit site conditions and attach panels or matched boarding so the fence stands true and resists movement, and we discuss timber choices, post types and fixings so you know how the fence will perform and what routine treatments extend its life.
ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SERVICEDamaged panels, loose posts or sagging gates are assessed to find the most practical fix. Repairs range from replacing individual boards and resetting posts to reinforcing existing frames and replacing cappings or rails; we aim to use materials that match the existing fence where possible and explain whether a repair is a durable solution or a temporary measure.
ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SERVICEWhere a fence is beyond economical repair, replacing it restores security and appearance. We remove old panels, dispose of waste and install new posts and panels suited to the site conditions; on sloping ground we advise stepped or raked solutions, and where access is tight we propose modular installation to reduce disruption. The replacement is set out in writing with any likely extras made clear.
ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SERVICEStructural timber elements such as framing, door or window cills are repaired or replaced to a measured brief. We cut and fit timber on site, ensure load-bearing members are properly fixed and protected, and explain when further specialist input may be necessary.
ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SERVICEGarden gates, pergola frames, decking substructures and other external timber items are built and repaired to withstand outdoor exposure. We discuss timber species and preservative options, recommend fixings suitable for damp conditions and coordinate dimensions and attachment details where elements connect to the house or existing landscaping.
ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS SERVICEOUR PROCESS / FOUR STAGES
Proceeding with the project follows a practical sequence: initial information and photos, a focused site survey when needed, agreed materials and methods, then installation or repair with an on-site check at completion. We set out what’s included and any likely extras before work starts so everything is clear in writing.
Contact us with photos and the postcode and we’ll check obvious access issues, boundary ownership and ground slope. When images don’t give enough detail we arrange a site survey to measure lengths, test post condition and locate buried services; the survey highlights challenges such as narrow access, hidden rubble or root systems that affect foundations and helps us prepare an accurate written recommendation.
Choosing timber types, post options and panel styles follows the survey findings and your priorities for cost, appearance and maintenance. We explain trade-offs — treated softwood for affordability, hardwood for lower maintenance — and recommend corrosion-resistant fixings; once you approve the written specification we confirm what work and materials are included.
On approval we prepare the site, set posts to suit soil and slope, and fix panels, boards or gates using galvanised or stainless fixings where water exposure is likely. Repairs focus on securing remaining good timber and replacing failed components with matching sections when practical; for sloping sites we use stepped or raked fittings so the finished fence looks consistent and functions properly.
After completion we carry out a walk-round to check alignment, gate operation and post stability, and we point out any maintenance items such as areas to re-treat or where water collects. You’ll receive simple care guidance and a note of what to watch for so small issues can be addressed before they become larger problems.
WHY CHOOSE RAPTOR / WHAT MATTERS
Expect practical, workmanlike options rather than vague promises: a written plan after any survey and recommendations based on what will perform and be maintainable for your situation.
Post condition, board decay and fixings determine whether a repair will restore strength. We inspect for rot, test post soundness and choose repair methods that bring the structure back to a reliable state, explaining the pros and cons of softwood, hardwood and preservative options so you can pick materials that match how you use the garden and the maintenance you’ll do.
Want to know exactly what you’re paying for? We put recommendations and materials into a written scope showing inclusions and likely extras so you can compare options or approve the specification with confidence and fewer surprises.
Site realities — access, slope and neighbour boundaries — dictate the construction details. We recommend post depths, panel types and stepped or raked installations that suit the location so the finished fence remains stable and functional.
INSIGHT / Informed Decisions for Timber Projects
Thinking about a fence or timber project? These chapters cover boundary responsibility, material choices and how carpentry links to larger work.
Before replacing or repairing a fence, confirm who is responsible for the boundary and what sits beneath the surface. Check any documented boundary agreements and speak with neighbours to avoid disputes over ownership or cost sharing. On-site, look for posts set into previous concrete, buried debris or tree roots — these affect foundation choices and the effort to remove old posts. For limited side access consider panels carried in smaller sections or preassembled modules. Note slopes and terraces: stepped panels keep a consistent top line while raked panels follow the slope. Finally, locate underground services before digging post holes to avoid damaging cabling, pipes or irrigation; having this information up front helps produce a realistic recommendation that matches site logistics and expectations.
Match timber choice and fixings to the exposure and maintenance you will commit to. Pressure-treated softwoods are economical but rely on periodic retreatment or staining to remain weather-resistant; hardwoods resist decay better and often need less frequent maintenance but cost more. For in-ground posts consider concrete setting for stability or post supports with gravel footings to improve drainage; the right choice depends on soil and how the fence will be used. Use galvanised or stainless fixings in damp locations and consider capping or trim to prevent water ingress on top rails. For gates and load-bearing elements specify heavier framing and robust hinges fixed into sound posts.
Coordinate fencing and timber work early with any larger building projects to avoid wasted effort. Protect existing fences and gates during construction and agree storage points for materials and waste. For projects that touch structural timber — replacing supports beside an extension or adapting joists near an external wall — ensure carpentry measurements align with other trades so doors and paths remain usable and drainage is not impeded. Consider sequencing: installing a new fence before paving can avoid cutting newly-laid surfaces, but leaving heavy machinery access clear during major works may mean delaying final installation. When timber ties to masonry or roofing, check attachment details and ensure fixings and flashings prevent water from sitting against timber.
AREAS WE SERVE
Hertford and nearby towns such as Ware, Hoddesdon and Welwyn Garden City are within our fencing and carpentry enquiry area. Tell us where the job is and we’ll explain whether a site visit is recommended and what information to prepare.
DISCUSS YOUR LOCATIONSTART THE CONVERSATION
Send us a few photographs and your postcode using the form, or give us a call. We will come back to you, arrange a survey where one is needed, and set out in writing what we recommend and why before any work is agreed.
QUESTIONS / FENCING & CARPENTRY
Questions about cost drivers, access limits or deciding between repair and replacement are common — these answers explain what to prepare before you enquire.
ASK ANOTHER QUESTIONWhen posts are loose, several adjacent boards are rotten, or the fence keeps leaning after storms, replacement often proves more cost-effective than repeated piecemeal repairs. We check post condition and how many panels are affected; for small, local damage we may repair, but we’ll explain the likely lifespan of a repair versus a full replacement so you can weigh cost against longevity.
Steep or uneven ground does affect installation method and material waste. Solutions include stepped panels or raked panels and careful post positioning; each option has trade-offs in appearance and cost. Tell us about the slope and send photos so we can advise which approach will best match your site and budget before arranging a survey.
Send your postcode, 3–5 photos of the fence run (one from a distance and a couple of close-ups), an estimate of total length and height, and a note on access or shared boundaries. That lets us identify obvious constraints and decide whether a detailed site visit is needed to produce a reliable written recommendation.
Planning rules vary with location and fence height. Many domestic fences under typical height limits do not require permission, but elevated or boundary-altering structures can. Mention any concern about planning when you enquire and we’ll explain what to check and whether you might need to contact the local planning authority.
Clear a safe access route and remove temporary obstructions so we can inspect the full fence line. Mark any visible underground features or recent changes and note neighbour agreements if the boundary is shared. Preparing photos and rough measurements beforehand speeds up the visit and reduces follow-up queries.
Yes, but these features affect foundation choices and may require altered post positions or alternative fixings. Flag any known cables, pipes or strong roots when you enquire and we will factor those into the recommendation and explain practical options to avoid damaging services while keeping the fence stable.
