Not so long ago, wicker fences were the main way to separate private possessions. Emphasized antiquity and the natural origin of raw materials allow wattle to organically fit into the countryside landscape. For this reason, they are in demand in large areas near and between settlements, as well as in parks and various natural sites. If you need to create a rustic setting or the atmosphere of an old courtyard, you should first take care of the appearance of the fence. Depending on the direction of the rods, wicker fences are divided into horizontal and vertical. The first option is usually more dense and it takes a lot more branches. Live wattle is also popular. They look fresher, and sometimes additionally decorated with hedges from lush plants. Wattle grass refers to the type of structures that can be done without special education.
Ordinary wattle is a light barrier of shoots and flexible branches. In this fence, chaotic lines and a makeshift structure stand out. The material is used in its natural form, almost without undergoing processing. Wicker fences are mainly decorative structures, because they are rarely erected to a height of more than 1.5 m. There are also high modifications, but this option is not always justified, since large dimensions do not solve the problem of fragility of the material itself, and there will be more in a large fence cracks and they will in principle become larger.
The above nuances imply frequent repair of the fence, as well as greater openness of the site for viewing by strangers. The main advantages of wattle are the low cost and ease of consumables. Wicker fences are relevant to this day and are combined with many styles of site design.
Where to use wattle
So they protect small land plots. Wattle fence is also used as additional fences inside a private property. Low options are also erected along the paths. They are often used to separate gardens, vegetable gardens and flower beds from the rest of the space. With a wattle fence, the territory of two neighboring sites is perfectly delimited. Low and medium fences will not cast a big shadow in any direction. Branches are great for erecting partitions used for zoning the territory. So equip summer and playgrounds, arbors, terraces. Fences are also used to decorate the zone for barbecue.Low wicker fences can be seen in themed restaurants. Wattle is an important element in expressing ethno-style. At the dachas and other properties, the wicker fence is perfectly combined with other wicker items - chairs, rocking chairs and tables.
Material selection and calculation
Such fences are usually woven of willow or hazel. These plants have long, smooth and flexible branches with virtually no transverse processes. This raw material is symmetrical, this is an important plus. Sometimes reed stalks are used, since they bend well, but the design is fragile. Bamboo is especially durable, but it will have to be ordered. To create wickerwork, a vine without bark is used. The calculation of the required amount of material is made "by eye". One armful is enough for a fence with a height and length of 50 cm. This value is not constant and may deviate in the direction of decrease or increase, since the diameter of the rods can be different, and the density of weaving is selected individually. Tyn can be erected from young branches of many shrubs and trees, but only at a certain length - from 1 meter. In this case, the work will be more difficult, and the weaving itself will be chaotic.
Other nuances:
As a support, large, even branches of 4 cm in diameter are used. The use of metal rods, boards, a round beam is appropriate if they do not spoil the overall picture and do not stand out much.
The step between the crossbars is usually 0.3-0.5 meters.
Types of weaving fences
Weaving options are distinguished by several criteria. Depending on the height, it can be high (the height of the fence is more than 2 m), medium (1-2 m) and low (below 0.7 m). The first type of weaving involves the creation of capital structures, for example, an external fence. The second is used to separate zones and separate small summer cottages. The third type is associated with the creation of decorative partitions, fencing flower beds and paths.Depending on the principle of connecting the elements, horizontal, vertical and inclined weaving are distinguished, as well as the less common round and checkerboard. In the first case, we are talking about laying long rods perpendicular to the vertical supports. In the second, horizontal veins act as the basis for the vertical distribution of branches. The inclined version implies a diagonal placement in increments of up to 0.3 m. According to the installation method, weaving is distinguished on poles, made immediately on supports, and in sections, when the weaves are woven separately and then placed between the pegs.
Step-by-step instruction
Wattle is constructed in several steps:
Preparation of materials: branches of various thicknesses separately for the base and for the canvas.
Preparation of tools.
Settlements in the territory.
Foundation creation.
Installation of rods on the base.
Elimination of deficiencies immediately after the creation of the fence.
The first step is to decide on the choice of raw materials. The final decision must first be influenced by the planned configuration and purpose of the wicker structure. Materials need to be collected or purchased. The first option is preferable, since collecting the stems does not take much time. However, in the year there are two small periods of time for this. Harvested branches are sorted by thickness. Large branches for supports are necessarily processed. Then, the exact location for installing the base is determined. The pegs are driven into the prepared ground to the desired depth. Further actions depend on the chosen weaving option. Two main methods: horizontal and vertical. The first is used more often. When the wattle becomes dense enough, it remains only to decorate. There are few traditional decor options, literally two or three, but there are much more ways to decorate the fence.
Materials and tools for the construction of the fence
First of all, you need to determine what kind of plant will serve as the basis for obtaining the elements of the future design. It is recommended to choose between willow and hazel. Even, flexible and long branches are needed. The minimum allowable thickness is about 1 cm. The role of the support is assigned to branches with a diameter of at least 4 cm. Instead, it is permissible to use a round beam, as well as iron rods, although this option is undesirable due to a violation of the natural look. Rods need to be collected in early spring or in the fall months. They will need to be softened in water and cleaned of bark. In addition, you need to collect tools. To create a wicker fence, such devices as nails, a screwdriver, construction line or thread, wire, sledgehammer or large hammer, tape measures, a wooden hammer, hacksaw for metal and pruning shears are necessary.
Foundation preparation
The base can be made from almost any wood species. From the material you will need to get pointed pegs for introduction into the soil. Install them at the same distance from each other. The recommended depth of driving the supports into the ground starts from 20 cm and increases depending on the height of the planned structure to 50 cm. An ideal structure will withstand strong winds and land subsidence. The minimum allowable diameter of the pegs is 4-5 cm. Larch pillars are one of the most durable. If the pegs are made in the classical version (i.e., from wood), then they are treated with impregnations, antiseptics and varnishes. These measures are directed against decay and fragility. Slices need additional carbonization. Under the base, it is necessary to make a drainage of sand and gravel. The height of the wattle fence is determined based on the purpose and individual wishes.
Bar preparation
The procurement of material is carried out in autumn or early spring. The movement of juice at this time is minimal and the plant does not have a large number of leaves. Priority is given to the most even and long stems.If the fence will not be built soon, the branches are dried. For standard wattle, shoots are selected within a 3-centimeter width. Wider bars reinforce the fence. Shortly before weaving begins, the branches are soaked in water to give flexibility and remove bark. The duration of this stage of work is about a week, but in the case of freshly cut rods, it decreases to several days. For processing branches, a crotch is used. You can also use pliers or wire cutters. The end of the branch is placed between the clamps and extends to itself. If the shoot is well wet, removing the bark will pass without difficulty. Ideally cleaned branches are best covered with stain and antiseptic. You can adjust their color. However, if you plan to build a large fence, it will take too much time.
Horizontal wattle
The supporting elements of the horizontal version are pillars driven into the ground. The base should consist not only of pegs, but also of sand and gravel drainage. Even thick columns are introduced into the soil with an interval of 1-1.5 m between adjacent elements. If the branches for forming the section are very thin, then the minimum distance of 1 m is selected. We take the rod by the thick edge and start it by the second pole, continue the extreme stake around the branch and move the figure-eight along all the supports. It is desirable that one vine is enough to cover at least three pegs. Each subsequent row starts from the opposite edge. You should observe uniformity in the placement of thick and thin rods, and so on throughout the fence. The thickness of the wattle fence at different points should not differ much. When the structure reaches the desired height, you will need to do the trimming of the length of the rods.
To make the rows of rods more dense, you should knock on them with a wooden hammer in the direction from top to bottom.
Vertical wattle
The installation technique of the base is initially similar to the horizontal version.Support poles are driven in the same way. Parallel to the ground, you will need to install at least 3 planks of rods of approximately the same thickness as the pegs, or less. They are tied or nailed to the supports. The total number of planks depends on the height of the fence - they should be placed no further than 25 cm from each other. So that the fence has a neat appearance, a crossbar is placed on the upper side, which is removed after completion of work. Rods vertically attached to the support strips are the same height as the fence. With thick edges, these branches rest against the ground and after that are intertwined with horizontal supports. Top rods need to be fixed. A wire is designed for this task. Alternatively, you can use a thin rope or weave a few horizontal rods.
Dressing
Previously, wicker fences were planted with sunflowers and cornfields. Such a decoration is considered classic. Modern options involve planting fresh flowers, as well as the use of artificial ones. A flower arrangement can be created from nasturtiums, chrysanthemums, asters, daisies. Wicker fence canvas - a suitable place for climbing plants. The monotonous row of a shop from boards, cuts and stumps diversifies. It is customary to hang pots on the tops of the support posts. Similarly, you can use small stuffed animals, boots, etc. You can approach the decoration more thoroughly. For example, pick up and place several dozen large decorative stones of different colors near the wattle fence, place 1-2 flowerpots with saturated green vegetation and a wheel from an old wagon on them. Get a spectacular and inexpensive composition. A wicker arch can be erected next to the gate.
We plant live wattle
Such a fence will grow up and in thickness. Branches that have become too high are cut or directed lower. Living wattle practically does not protect the territory, however it can be made a zone separator inside the site.To collect live wattle of a vertical direction, you will first need to prepare the soil. To do this, select places under the support posts. We select the distance between the elements within 1-1.5 meters. Then the supports (4-5 centimeters thick) are driven into the ground by 40 or 50 cm. To facilitate this process, the lower ends of the supports should first be sharpened. Next, we fix the transverse logs. Using a wire, we install thinner rods in several rows (3 is enough at a height of 1.5 meters). Then the time comes to plant branches. Immerse shoots up to 3 cm thick in the soil by 30 cm. The distance between the stems should not be less than 10 and more than 30 cm. Live wattle will grow and make the composition more dense.
Twigs should be placed with a slight slope, so that if necessary it was easier to change the composition.
Plastic wattle
A great alternative to an ordinary wicker fence is a plastic fence. This type of fencing is not “scary” time. They are also attractive in appearance - they look modern and original. Plastic can have high strength, which will protect the product from minor mechanical stress. One of the most popular materials is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Fences, partitions and other objects are made from it. PVC is resistant to corrosion, decay, extreme temperatures and their extremes, direct sunlight. Dirt is easily washed off from a plastic fence; special solutions will not be needed. Plastic constructions are lightweight, so transportation and installation will be quick and without complications. To put such a fence under the force of an untrained person. A fundamentally important feature of a material such as PVC is fire resistance.
Cons of installing a fence made of plastic:
from a strong impact on it there will remain defects that will be clearly visible;
high price.
Wicker fence from the boards
Stages of independent creation of fencing from boards:
Initial calculations;
Drawing a marking and installation of support columns;
Installation of fencing;
Finishing
Weaving using boards provides for the creation of various faces and transitions. The result is an interesting "design" building. To install wattle with your own hands, you first need to make calculations. The first step is the angular marking of the fence. At the corners of the allotment, you will need to install poles and provide for the gates and gates (they are usually combined). Then, the step is calculated between the supports. If the pillars are concrete or wooden 8–10 cm thick, you can place them with a 3-meter spacing, thin supports (5–7 cm) up to 2.5 m. Next, preparatory work is carried out: marking is made, poles are installed. The main stage is the installation of the boards themselves. You need to mount first from the bottom, alternately bending the boards. Two people are required to complete this task. The boards are fastened to the posts using galvanized nails. Work is carried out immediately around the perimeter: first, the first row is laid everywhere, then the second, etc.
How to care for a finished fence
The service life of wicker fencing reaches 5-7 years. After this period, the fence will begin to decay quickly. The main factor worsening his condition is dampness and, as a result, decay of the lower part of the fence and base. It will extend the life of the elementary care, which consists in preventing the accumulation of water under the fence. In this place, dense vegetation and tall grass are also undesirable, as humidity is increased in the thickets. As protection, it is recommended to use matte varnishes and antiseptic agents. They form a moisture barrier for the aboveground part of the enclosure. Among varnish compositions, preference should be given to matte ones, because after using glossy varnish the fence will take on an unnatural appearance. Processing should be carried out at least 1 time per year - then the chances of increasing the service life will be higher.
Conclusion
The history of the construction of wicker fences begins from the distant past. Nowadays, wattle is an original architectural form, which is very popular. Wicker fencing can be found in large private estates, cottages, next to gazebos, barbecues, flowerbeds, gardens, in restaurants and open-air museums. Despite the small number of types of weaving, the appearance of structures can vary greatly. Living wattle and solid board fencing are examples of original structures. For the average layman, the erection of a fence is a relatively simple task. First you need to collect the branches and sort them into 2 categories. From the thick base is erected, thin perform the function of the fence directly. You can go further and make a live wattle fence with subsequent adjustment of the length of the branches and the direction of their growth. The fence should be decorated in a rustic style.
Not so long ago, wicker fences were the main way to separate private possessions. Emphasized antiquity and the natural origin of raw materials allow wattle to organically fit into the countryside landscape. For this reason, they are in demand in large areas near and between settlements, as well as in parks and various natural sites. If you need to create a rustic setting or the atmosphere of an old courtyard, you should first take care of the appearance of the fence. Depending on the direction of the rods, wicker fences are divided into horizontal and vertical. The first option is usually more dense and it takes a lot more branches. Live wattle is also popular. They look fresher, and sometimes additionally decorated with hedges from lush plants. Wattle grass refers to the type of structures that can be done without special education.
Content
Features
Ordinary wattle is a light barrier of shoots and flexible branches. In this fence, chaotic lines and a makeshift structure stand out. The material is used in its natural form, almost without undergoing processing. Wicker fences are mainly decorative structures, because they are rarely erected to a height of more than 1.5 m. There are also high modifications, but this option is not always justified, since large dimensions do not solve the problem of fragility of the material itself, and there will be more in a large fence cracks and they will in principle become larger.
The above nuances imply frequent repair of the fence, as well as greater openness of the site for viewing by strangers. The main advantages of wattle are the low cost and ease of consumables. Wicker fences are relevant to this day and are combined with many styles of site design.
Where to use wattle
So they protect small land plots. Wattle fence is also used as additional fences inside a private property. Low options are also erected along the paths. They are often used to separate gardens, vegetable gardens and flower beds from the rest of the space. With a wattle fence, the territory of two neighboring sites is perfectly delimited. Low and medium fences will not cast a big shadow in any direction. Branches are great for erecting partitions used for zoning the territory. So equip summer and playgrounds, arbors, terraces. Fences are also used to decorate the zone for barbecue.Low wicker fences can be seen in themed restaurants. Wattle is an important element in expressing ethno-style. At the dachas and other properties, the wicker fence is perfectly combined with other wicker items - chairs, rocking chairs and tables.
Material selection and calculation
Such fences are usually woven of willow or hazel. These plants have long, smooth and flexible branches with virtually no transverse processes. This raw material is symmetrical, this is an important plus. Sometimes reed stalks are used, since they bend well, but the design is fragile. Bamboo is especially durable, but it will have to be ordered. To create wickerwork, a vine without bark is used. The calculation of the required amount of material is made "by eye". One armful is enough for a fence with a height and length of 50 cm. This value is not constant and may deviate in the direction of decrease or increase, since the diameter of the rods can be different, and the density of weaving is selected individually. Tyn can be erected from young branches of many shrubs and trees, but only at a certain length - from 1 meter. In this case, the work will be more difficult, and the weaving itself will be chaotic.
Other nuances:
Types of weaving fences
Weaving options are distinguished by several criteria. Depending on the height, it can be high (the height of the fence is more than 2 m), medium (1-2 m) and low (below 0.7 m). The first type of weaving involves the creation of capital structures, for example, an external fence. The second is used to separate zones and separate small summer cottages. The third type is associated with the creation of decorative partitions, fencing flower beds and paths.Depending on the principle of connecting the elements, horizontal, vertical and inclined weaving are distinguished, as well as the less common round and checkerboard. In the first case, we are talking about laying long rods perpendicular to the vertical supports. In the second, horizontal veins act as the basis for the vertical distribution of branches. The inclined version implies a diagonal placement in increments of up to 0.3 m. According to the installation method, weaving is distinguished on poles, made immediately on supports, and in sections, when the weaves are woven separately and then placed between the pegs.
Step-by-step instruction
Wattle is constructed in several steps:
The first step is to decide on the choice of raw materials. The final decision must first be influenced by the planned configuration and purpose of the wicker structure. Materials need to be collected or purchased. The first option is preferable, since collecting the stems does not take much time. However, in the year there are two small periods of time for this. Harvested branches are sorted by thickness. Large branches for supports are necessarily processed. Then, the exact location for installing the base is determined. The pegs are driven into the prepared ground to the desired depth. Further actions depend on the chosen weaving option. Two main methods: horizontal and vertical. The first is used more often. When the wattle becomes dense enough, it remains only to decorate. There are few traditional decor options, literally two or three, but there are much more ways to decorate the fence.
Materials and tools for the construction of the fence
First of all, you need to determine what kind of plant will serve as the basis for obtaining the elements of the future design. It is recommended to choose between willow and hazel. Even, flexible and long branches are needed. The minimum allowable thickness is about 1 cm. The role of the support is assigned to branches with a diameter of at least 4 cm. Instead, it is permissible to use a round beam, as well as iron rods, although this option is undesirable due to a violation of the natural look. Rods need to be collected in early spring or in the fall months. They will need to be softened in water and cleaned of bark. In addition, you need to collect tools. To create a wicker fence, such devices as nails, a screwdriver, construction line or thread, wire, sledgehammer or large hammer, tape measures, a wooden hammer, hacksaw for metal and pruning shears are necessary.
Foundation preparation
The base can be made from almost any wood species. From the material you will need to get pointed pegs for introduction into the soil. Install them at the same distance from each other. The recommended depth of driving the supports into the ground starts from 20 cm and increases depending on the height of the planned structure to 50 cm. An ideal structure will withstand strong winds and land subsidence. The minimum allowable diameter of the pegs is 4-5 cm. Larch pillars are one of the most durable. If the pegs are made in the classical version (i.e., from wood), then they are treated with impregnations, antiseptics and varnishes. These measures are directed against decay and fragility. Slices need additional carbonization. Under the base, it is necessary to make a drainage of sand and gravel. The height of the wattle fence is determined based on the purpose and individual wishes.
Bar preparation
The procurement of material is carried out in autumn or early spring. The movement of juice at this time is minimal and the plant does not have a large number of leaves. Priority is given to the most even and long stems.If the fence will not be built soon, the branches are dried. For standard wattle, shoots are selected within a 3-centimeter width. Wider bars reinforce the fence. Shortly before weaving begins, the branches are soaked in water to give flexibility and remove bark. The duration of this stage of work is about a week, but in the case of freshly cut rods, it decreases to several days. For processing branches, a crotch is used. You can also use pliers or wire cutters. The end of the branch is placed between the clamps and extends to itself. If the shoot is well wet, removing the bark will pass without difficulty. Ideally cleaned branches are best covered with stain and antiseptic. You can adjust their color. However, if you plan to build a large fence, it will take too much time.
Horizontal wattle
The supporting elements of the horizontal version are pillars driven into the ground. The base should consist not only of pegs, but also of sand and gravel drainage. Even thick columns are introduced into the soil with an interval of 1-1.5 m between adjacent elements. If the branches for forming the section are very thin, then the minimum distance of 1 m is selected. We take the rod by the thick edge and start it by the second pole, continue the extreme stake around the branch and move the figure-eight along all the supports. It is desirable that one vine is enough to cover at least three pegs. Each subsequent row starts from the opposite edge. You should observe uniformity in the placement of thick and thin rods, and so on throughout the fence. The thickness of the wattle fence at different points should not differ much. When the structure reaches the desired height, you will need to do the trimming of the length of the rods.
Vertical wattle
The installation technique of the base is initially similar to the horizontal version.Support poles are driven in the same way. Parallel to the ground, you will need to install at least 3 planks of rods of approximately the same thickness as the pegs, or less. They are tied or nailed to the supports. The total number of planks depends on the height of the fence - they should be placed no further than 25 cm from each other. So that the fence has a neat appearance, a crossbar is placed on the upper side, which is removed after completion of work. Rods vertically attached to the support strips are the same height as the fence. With thick edges, these branches rest against the ground and after that are intertwined with horizontal supports. Top rods need to be fixed. A wire is designed for this task. Alternatively, you can use a thin rope or weave a few horizontal rods.
Dressing
Previously, wicker fences were planted with sunflowers and cornfields. Such a decoration is considered classic. Modern options involve planting fresh flowers, as well as the use of artificial ones. A flower arrangement can be created from nasturtiums, chrysanthemums, asters, daisies. Wicker fence canvas - a suitable place for climbing plants. The monotonous row of a shop from boards, cuts and stumps diversifies. It is customary to hang pots on the tops of the support posts. Similarly, you can use small stuffed animals, boots, etc. You can approach the decoration more thoroughly. For example, pick up and place several dozen large decorative stones of different colors near the wattle fence, place 1-2 flowerpots with saturated green vegetation and a wheel from an old wagon on them. Get a spectacular and inexpensive composition. A wicker arch can be erected next to the gate.
We plant live wattle
Such a fence will grow up and in thickness. Branches that have become too high are cut or directed lower. Living wattle practically does not protect the territory, however it can be made a zone separator inside the site.To collect live wattle of a vertical direction, you will first need to prepare the soil. To do this, select places under the support posts. We select the distance between the elements within 1-1.5 meters. Then the supports (4-5 centimeters thick) are driven into the ground by 40 or 50 cm. To facilitate this process, the lower ends of the supports should first be sharpened. Next, we fix the transverse logs. Using a wire, we install thinner rods in several rows (3 is enough at a height of 1.5 meters). Then the time comes to plant branches. Immerse shoots up to 3 cm thick in the soil by 30 cm. The distance between the stems should not be less than 10 and more than 30 cm. Live wattle will grow and make the composition more dense.
Plastic wattle
A great alternative to an ordinary wicker fence is a plastic fence. This type of fencing is not “scary” time. They are also attractive in appearance - they look modern and original. Plastic can have high strength, which will protect the product from minor mechanical stress. One of the most popular materials is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Fences, partitions and other objects are made from it. PVC is resistant to corrosion, decay, extreme temperatures and their extremes, direct sunlight. Dirt is easily washed off from a plastic fence; special solutions will not be needed. Plastic constructions are lightweight, so transportation and installation will be quick and without complications. To put such a fence under the force of an untrained person. A fundamentally important feature of a material such as PVC is fire resistance.
Cons of installing a fence made of plastic:
Wicker fence from the boards
Stages of independent creation of fencing from boards:
Weaving using boards provides for the creation of various faces and transitions. The result is an interesting "design" building. To install wattle with your own hands, you first need to make calculations. The first step is the angular marking of the fence. At the corners of the allotment, you will need to install poles and provide for the gates and gates (they are usually combined). Then, the step is calculated between the supports. If the pillars are concrete or wooden 8–10 cm thick, you can place them with a 3-meter spacing, thin supports (5–7 cm) up to 2.5 m. Next, preparatory work is carried out: marking is made, poles are installed. The main stage is the installation of the boards themselves. You need to mount first from the bottom, alternately bending the boards. Two people are required to complete this task. The boards are fastened to the posts using galvanized nails. Work is carried out immediately around the perimeter: first, the first row is laid everywhere, then the second, etc.
How to care for a finished fence
The service life of wicker fencing reaches 5-7 years. After this period, the fence will begin to decay quickly. The main factor worsening his condition is dampness and, as a result, decay of the lower part of the fence and base. It will extend the life of the elementary care, which consists in preventing the accumulation of water under the fence. In this place, dense vegetation and tall grass are also undesirable, as humidity is increased in the thickets. As protection, it is recommended to use matte varnishes and antiseptic agents. They form a moisture barrier for the aboveground part of the enclosure. Among varnish compositions, preference should be given to matte ones, because after using glossy varnish the fence will take on an unnatural appearance. Processing should be carried out at least 1 time per year - then the chances of increasing the service life will be higher.
Conclusion
The history of the construction of wicker fences begins from the distant past. Nowadays, wattle is an original architectural form, which is very popular. Wicker fencing can be found in large private estates, cottages, next to gazebos, barbecues, flowerbeds, gardens, in restaurants and open-air museums. Despite the small number of types of weaving, the appearance of structures can vary greatly. Living wattle and solid board fencing are examples of original structures. For the average layman, the erection of a fence is a relatively simple task. First you need to collect the branches and sort them into 2 categories. From the thick base is erected, thin perform the function of the fence directly. You can go further and make a live wattle fence with subsequent adjustment of the length of the branches and the direction of their growth. The fence should be decorated in a rustic style.