How To Build A Venetian Fence

If you’re searching for a contemporary way to enhance your outdoor space, Venetian fencing might be just what you need. 

Just like the sleek lines seen in Venetian blinds, this fencing style features horizontal timber slats with uniform spacing between each one. Sleek and stylish, Venetian fencing has become a popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their gardens. 

This guide will walk you through all you need to know about how to build a Venetian fence, from planning to installing the final panel. 

What Is Venetian Fencing?

Before we get into the building process, let’s define what makes a fence ‘Venetian’. 

In short, Venetian style garden fencing is characterised by horizontal slats with narrow gaps between them. Unlike traditional vertical fencing, the horizontal panels create a contemporary look while allowing light and air to pass through. 

This slatted design isn’t just easy on the eyes, it’s also practical. The gaps between the slats can reduce wind resistance, making them sturdier than usual solid panels. This feature is valuable in exposed spaces, where strong winds can damage fencing. 

This design also provides a nice amount of privacy, protecting your space without completely closing it off. 

The inspiration for this fencing style can be traced back to Venetian blinds, but despite the name, these blinds didn’t originate in Venice. Surprisingly, their roots can be traced as far back as ancient Egypt, where early versions were crafted from bundled reeds to shield interiors from the sun. 

Venetian fencing keeps the original blinds' timeless slatted structure, now reimagined in robust timber for exterior use. Just like the blinds, these fences strike a balance between openness and privacy, offering coverage without cutting off too much light or fresh air. 

Unlike traditional vertical fencing, Venetian fencing has horizontal panels that allow light and air to pass through. 

Different Types of Venetian Fencing

Also known as slatted fencing, there are a few types of Venetian style fence panels that you can add to your garden.

1. Single Slatted Fencing

Single slatted fencing boasts a sleek finish, making it a nice choice for modern gardens. The gaps between the slats provide a light and airy feel, but due to these gaps, the fence offers less privacy compared to other styles.

It’s an excellent option when you want to create a boundary without completely closing off the space.

2. Double Slatted Fencing

Double-slatted fencing is similar to single-slatted but with overlapping slats, making it a great choice if privacy is a concern. 

This style works well in both traditional and modern gardens, adding a touch of sophistication while improving privacy. However, double-slatted fences are slightly more challenging to paint during further maintenance, due to their structure.

3. Hit and Miss Fencing

Hit and Miss fencing features slats on both sides of the fence, with each slat alternating between the front and back. 

This overlapping design gives extra privacy and a solid appearance compared to single slatted fencing, while allowing some air and light through. It’s a versatile option that can work well in contemporary and traditional garden settings.

Preparing For A Slatted Fence: What To Know Beforehand

Once you’ve chosen Venetian fencing as your style of choice, it’s time to consider how you’ll bring it to life.

First things first, measure carefully. Knowing the exact length of the area you’re working with will help you plan how many posts and slats you’ll need. 

If you’re using existing posts, be aware that softwood slats can naturally bow over time, especially across wider gaps. For any spans longer than 1.8 meters, we recommend adding intermediate posts to provide extra support and keep your fence stable. 

You’ll also need to decide on the height of your fence. For most domestic gardens, anything up to 2 meters is usually permitted, but it’s important to note that anything above 2m may require planning permission. A bit of extra research now can save time later on.

Keep in mind that while it might look simple on paper, building a Venetian fence isn’t a job to rush. The spacing between slats needs to be consistent from top to bottom, and every batten must be perfectly level for the fence to look professionally finished. 

It’s one of those tasks where attention to detail really shows, which is why it’s always best to bring in the experts. 

Start by measuring carefully. Knowing the exact length of the area you’re working with will help you plan how many posts and slats you’ll need. 

How To Build A Venetian Fence: The Process

We’d always recommend leaving Venetian fences to a garden designer, but here’s a quick overview of how to install Venetian style fence panels from scratch. 

1. Setting The Fence Posts

When you know the exact length of where you want to build your slatted fence, start by installing your posts if you’re not working with existing ones.

These form the foundation of your fence, so it’s essential to get them straight and properly secured with concrete. 

2. Adding The Slats

Begin at the bottom and work your way up. The first slat needs to be level, as this will guide the rest of the fence. 

Once it’s in place, use a placeholder (like spare timber offcuts) to create even gaps between the slats. These placeholders act as spacers to maintain the same distance between the slats as you work upward. 

With the placeholders in place, lay the second slat over them, press it firmly into position, and nail it in place. 

Once nailed, remove the place holders and set them on top of your newly installed slat. Continue this process, adding the next slat and repeating the procedure until you reach the top of the fence posts.

3. Finishing Touches

To enhance the wood’s natural beauty and protect it from the elements, stain your fence with an oil, stain or specialist timber paint. 

This brings out the rich grain of the wood and helps extend the lifespan of your fence.

An oil stain or specialist paint can make your fence look great and protect it from the elements.

Why Let The Pros Handle It?

Slatted fencing may appear straightforward, but achieving that crisp, modern finish takes experience. 

From post placement and levelling to spacing consistency and timber treatment, a professional touch ensures the job is done right and built to last.

At The Garden Guys, we can help you install custom Venetian fencing that looks stunning and stands up to the elements. Whether you’re refreshing a single boundary or planning a full garden transformation, our garden design service is tailored to you and your needs. 

If you’re ready to add that sophisticated slatted look to your garden, contact us today! We’re ready to talk through your ideas and help bring your vision to life.