How to use James Hardie Axon for fence?

bow2021

Hi there,

Seen some good inspo on the community for fencing and thinking of using James Hardie axon for cladding to make our garden area look me pleasing to the eye. Have a wooden fence at the moment but was thinking I will just put in new posts and build a new structure for the fibre cement panels in front of it. Had the idea of using colorbond c shape steel posts and attaching wooden frame to them as they are cheaper than timber and also straighter. Is this a bad idea? Would they take the weight. I’m not going to be resting the fibre cement on the floor then attaching as it’s in front of a plant bed. So completely freestanding attached to posts and frame.
just need to know if this is a bad idea?
cheers.

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Comments

MitchellMc

Hi @bow2021,

It's great that you're looking into using James Hardie Axon cladding for your fence, as it’s a stylish and durable choice. However, regarding your idea of using Colorbond C-shaped steel posts for the frame, I’d advise caution.

James Hardie Axon cladding is 9mm fibre cement, which is heavier than Colorbond fencing panels. As such, the Colorbond posts may not be able to support the extra weight, as they aren't designed to handle the load that fibre cement panels carry. Colorbond posts, while great for fencing panels, are not particularly structurally sound and can be a bit flimsy. Their strength comes from being used with multiple posts along a long span, or often when attached to immovable structures like a house wall.

For your project, I'd recommend using solid H4-treated timber posts. These are designed to handle the weight of fibre cement cladding and will provide the stability and support you need for a freestanding structure. This way, you’ll ensure that your fence remains secure and durable over time.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

bow2021

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/50319#Comment_50319

Thanks @MitchellMc I was thinking this could be a bit a dodgy, appreciate the advice and the link for the posts, that really helps. Would it also be possible to utilise the current fence and maybe add more posts between to put the frame on? Or did you think just make something freestanding that doesn’t touch the other fence? Just trying to save money really on the posts as they are quite pricey and looking to put them in every 1200mm at least for the panels.

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/87268#Comment_87268

Hello @bow2021

Would it be possible for you to post a photo of your fence? This will give our members a better idea of your fences current condition. We can then make recommendations if it is strong enough or if you'll need new posts for your fencing plans.

Eric

bow2021

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/109127#Comment_109127

No worries @EricL have attached a picture. The fence is brand new, few months old.

we did want to try and extend the height about 600mm as our neighbours windows look directly into our courtyard area.

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/122268#Comment_122268

Hello @bow2021

I propose checking your council rules and regulations in your area in regards to maximum fence height and coverage. Adding a 600mm extension is a lot and could go past the established height rules. It would be best to check before you make any modifications. As a possible alternative, I suggest installing independent posts and using Coolaroo 3.66m Beech 90% UV Heavy Duty People Cover Shade Cloth across the posts.

This will prevent people from looking into your yard but will still allow a certain amount of sunlight to pass through. It's weatherproof, UV protected and can be stapled onto timber, plus it is very light and will not stress the posts you install it onto. I use the same thing on my garage entrance, and no one can see through it.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

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