How to build a garden feature wall?

[kanga25]

I need to replace a garden bed feature wall. A cement sheet was originally in place, but fell and broke in high winds. I am wanting to replace it with some type of timber. The length is approx 2.4m. Is there are suitable pine or merbau for this which is not too expensive? I have seen dressed pine 19mm x 140mm. Is this suitable or something else more suitable?

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @kanga25,

There are a variety of timber products you could use for this application. The main thing we need to do is ensure that they are either treated for outdoor use or naturally resistant to weathering.

Some good options include -

• 138 x 19mm 5.4m Chamfer Board H3 Treated Pine Primed FJ 126mm Cover LOSP
   
• 158 x 19mm 5.4m Chamfer Board H3 Treated Pine Primed FJ 146mm Cover LOSP
   
• 175 x 22mm 5.4m Weatherboard H3 Treated Pine Primed FJ Sawn LOSP

The profile of these boards is designed so that water will drain downwards and won't sit on any vertical edges.

Other options that don't have an angled profile in the same way include -

• 230 x 18mm 5.4m H3 Treated Pine FJ DAR Primed LOSP
   
• 187 x 18mm 5.4m H3 Treated Pine FJ DAR Primed LOSP

You could also use something like Timber Decking, which would be a relatively low-cost option.

Whatever you use, it would be best to use some decent screws. These 50mm Galvanised Countersunk Rib Head Timber Screws would be a good option.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[Dave-1]

Good Afternoon @kanga25 

I liek the idea of Merbou horizontal slats 90mm by 18mm I think. You dont need to do the whole lot tho, You could do the top say 2 feet and maybe a segmant in the middle. Spraypaint the fence a neautral colour first and then the slats. Top part slat, then 20mm gap then slat. Just depends on the look you want and the potential attachment poiunts for hangers or wire.

Here is my original design for my side fence. I was thinking of ripping a length of merbau down the center  to give it an overall lighter look. 

If you go horizontal then as I mentioned above you could get away with a couple feet up the top and a foot in the middle (to give it strength)

After thinking about it I think this style would suit your behind the fruit tree look.

Dave

[EricL]

Hello @kanga25 

I would also like to suggest having a look at this featured project - Hardwood and mesh trellis with planter boxes by @DIY4Knuckleheds. I noticed your standing posts and thought they’d make a great frame for mesh to support climbing plants. You could do one part timber and one part mesh as an alternative. 

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

Eric

[kanga25]

As cost is one of the most significant factors, the Merbau is probably going to be my preferred option.

[kanga25]

After several delays, finally got this project completed. Decided that the Merbau was the best option, then used some H3 pine timber at the top to finish off. Thank you for all your advice and suggestions.

 

 

[EricL]

Hello @kanga25 

Thank you very much for the update, the feature wall looks beautiful, and it's really changed the character of the area. The Merbau panels really blend in and works so well with your trees. It's so much more relaxing when compared to the industrial finish of the Colorbond fence.

Eric