A custom wood fence or privacy screen is a sure way to make your outdoor space more enjoyable and secure. With the expertise of a skilled carpenter, you can strike the perfect balance between style and function.
Any fence or privacy screen built by Donnelly Woodworking can be customized to suit your needs and style while also considering the land and environment we’re building in. Whether you’re looking for a simple, budget-focused design or a more decorative and ornate option, I can make it happen.
It’s important that your new fence or privacy screen meets our local building codes and regulations – the last thing you want is to have to build something twice. I know the rules, and can help you navigate any zoning or permitting requirements.
When it comes to building a fence or privacy screen, the only corners I cut are on lumber. My structures are built to last, so you can enjoy increased all of the benefits of a beautiful, functional structure for years to come.
Wood is a classic and versatile fencing material that can be customized to suit different design styles and preferences.
The options with a wood fence are almost limitless!
There’s the classic picket fence, rustic split rail fence, overlapping board-on-board fences, effecient panel fences, solid with lattice fences, and recycled wood (driftwood, repurposed wooden siding, mill ends).
And all that before we even discuss the species of wood!
Metal-clad fencing is a unique and stylish custom fencing option, offering a very durable material at a reasonable cost per foot.
When combined with a thoughtful wood frame, metal-clad fences combine the durability of metal with the natural beauty of wood.
They’re long-lasting and can truly enhance the look and function of your property boundaries – what more can you ask of a fence?
Fibre cement board fences are extremely durable, and require very little maintenance.
Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres, the boards are durable and long-lasting, resulting in a fence that is resistant to rot, pests, and fire.
As the boards are available in a variety of colours and styles (including textures that mimic wood grain), they do not require painting or staining like traditional wood fences.
James Hardie is probably the most common brand of fibre cement boards, often known as HardiePlank, HardieFence, or HardiePanel. Allura is another brand common in Canada.
Most commonly made from wood, lattice is a type of decorative screen that can be used to provide privacy while also adding a touch of class and style to your property.
Lattice and screen designs offer a blend of aesthetics and functionality, ideal for those seeking to enhance their outdoor living spaces. These decorative elements not only elevate the beauty of your garden or patio but also serve practical purposes.
For instance, they can function as a support structure for climbing plants, creating a natural green wall that brings life and colour to your garden. Moreover, they can be used to delineate spaces within your garden, providing a sense of enclosure and intimacy without the need for solid walls.
Whether you prefer the intricate patterns of classic lattice work or the modern appeal of horizontal slatted screens, I can customize a design to complement your home’s architecture and landscape design.
When built right, solid concrete is a solid choice for retaining earth. But that doesn’t mean they have to be all function and no form.
Concrete walls can also stand alone and be formed into beautiful arches and irregular shapes.
If you’re looking for something that endures, properly batched and placed concrete will last several lifetimes.
Composite fencing is a modern fencing option that combines the durability of plastic with the natural beauty of wood.
Of course, as a carpenter who thrives on the authenticity of craftsmanship, my heart lies with real wood. There’s just an irreplaceable charm in working with the character found in natural materials.
However, composite may be the right choice for those seeking a balance between practicality and style.
Here are some of the questions I am most commonly asked about building fences and privacy screens.
Yes I do! I can build your gate to any specific style or size that meets your preferences and needs.
When an unforeseen detail or specific added request comes up, I provide an additional quote for approval or work on a verbal time-plus-material agreement with documented expenses and labour. However, my exact approach depends on the amount of additional work required and the relationship with the client.
When compared to building a custom wood fence, yes, a fence built using prefabricated panels will be less expensive. Although in my experience, the prefab panels are made with much lesser quality materials and slapped together as quickly as possible. While you might save up-front, the product is mediocre at best, and never stands the test of time.
Generally speaking, all my projects are supply and install so you don’t need to worry about sourcing materials. This also allows me to hand-select materials whenever possible, ideally allowing their inherent characteristics to guide the creative process.
