Featheredge Profile

Featheredge boards

Featheredge boards are tapered in section, thick along one edge and thin along the other. They are fixed so each board overlaps the next, producing a weatherproof lapped surface. They are traditional in British fencing, and are also used for sheds, outbuildings, barns and rustic cladding.

Uses

• Close boarded fencing, with the boards nailed to arris rails.
• Garden sheds, stores and animal housing, see garden buildings.
• Low-cost exterior cladding where a traditional look is acceptable.

Finish and species

Featheredge is generally sawn on the face, which takes stains, paints and preservatives well. It is commonly supplied in treated softwood, but you can also look at durable timber in our fence and screens range. For a more refined wall cladding, compare it with external timber cladding profiles.

Fixing

Fix the thick edge over the thin edge of the board before it, with an overlap of about 20 to 25mm. Use two galvanised or stainless nails per board at each rail, placed through the thicker section so they miss the board underneath. Keep a tiny gap for movement, and leave the bottom of the boards clear of soil, ideally with a gravel board.

How much to order

Because of the overlap, coverage per board is narrower than the board width. Check the stated coverage, divide the wall or fence length by that, and add 10% for waste. Treat any cut ends with preservative.

Not sure which suits your project? See our cladding guide or ask for a sample through free timber samples.