Removing an old gate or fence and replacing it with a new one can have a dramatic effect on a garden. By the same token, re-painting a fence can improve the whole surrounding aspect.

New fences for old
The range of different fences now available is extremely wide; a few of them are shown here. Several fences, such as ranch-style and spike-chain fencing, have a modern, open style, whereas solid fencing creates a blocked-off effect that lends itself well to older-style properties.

Picket fencing has a cottage-garden feel to it, as well as a 'colonial' appearance, and can look very appealing. Additionally, it can be 'personalized' by shaping the tops of individual palings.

Brick boundary walls are not always as long-lived as one might think; their durability much depends on the depth and detailed preparation of their foundations. Also, where the tops of walls are left bare and uncapped, water will soon permeate the bricks; frost is then able to cause further damage.

The following ideas will help you extend the life of existing fences and walls or improve your garden altogether by suggesting replacements.

Extending the life of a fence
Whatever type of material you use for your fence, in relative terms it will be expensive. If you follow these tips, it will last longer and look better in the garden:

- When installing posts, ensure they are upright and that the top of the concrete holding them in place is smooth and at an angle that sheds water away from the post.

- Use pressure-treated wooden posts impregnated with rot-resistant chemicals.

- Do not allow the bases of fencing panels to rest on the soil. Preferably, there should be a gap of 5-7.5cm (2-3in).

- Use only galvanized nails to secure fencing panels to posts. If ordinary nails are used, they rust, and during storms the entire panel may break away from the post and be smashed.

- Nail wooden caps to the tops of wooden posts to prevent water entering the wood. Alternatively, cut the tops of posts at an angle.

- Paint fences with wood preservatives. Coat both sides of the fence and ensure that preservative reaches into joints.

- Regularly clear away soil, debris and plants from the bases offences; if left, it encourages wood to decay.

Gates for all gardens
Well-proportioned gates that harmonize with a house and garden always enhance a property and its value. There are many types of gate to choose from, in both single and double styles. Gates are nearly always made out of either wood or metal. Wood is the most adaptable of materials and can be used to create many styles in gates; some have an open and slatted nature, while others are close-boarded. Those constructed of soft woods are usually painted, while hardwood types require oiling or varnishing. The joints on old wooden gates eventually become loose, although the wood usually remains sound. Apart from taking the gate apart and re-gluing the joints, metal angle-brackets can be quickly screwed into place to hold the wood together.

Metal gates are usually made of wrought-iron, which lasts for many years. Their shapes are varied and some have a highly ornate appearance; avoid using very ornate types in plain gardens. A coating of paint every few years extends the gate's life and improves its appearance.