Bamboo Fencing
Friday, July 8th, 2011
We recently came across an article discussing the benefits and appeal of bamboo fencing. It was a great resource to learn about this and also determine if it was a good option for most home owners. Since we read this from the perspective of Patio Scenes, we couldn’t help but think of a job completed a couple of months ago. This particular homeowner decided that they like the bamboo fencing look, but didn’t really want to deal with the installation of it. They were also dealing with privacy issues around their pool as well as older florida glass which was starting to deteriorate and wear with time.
The solution? A chairrail scene mimicking a bamboo fence. It solved all of the problems they were having around their pool enclosure, all while creating the look they were wanting.
“If you’re looking to create a truly unique outdoor space, then bamboo fencing is one material to consider. Rolled bamboo fencing is often used both inside and outdoors. When used outside, it can create a really distinctive look around deck areas or backyards. Indoors, rolled bamboo is often seen on walls where it makes an eye catching display. It also serves a useful purpose as a temporary wall or divider.
A rolled bamboo fence is strong yet resilient. You might be surprised to learn that the heavyweight bamboo is as strong as cedar. Bamboo will last for as long as twenty years if properly maintained. Do that by treating it the same way as a wood product is treated.
When used outdoors for fencing, rolled bamboo has to be supported on a frame. As easy as that is, it’s even easier when it’s applied over an existing fence. Or you can make it part of new fencing construction.
If it’s being applied on a fence that’s already in place, the roll will have to be attached. The easiest way to attach it to wooden fencing is by stapling stainless steel or galvanized heavy duty staples to the fence. Staples like these won’t rust or mark up your fencing. But be sure that you apply the staples on top of the existing wire holding the rolled fencing together, to hide the staples.
With a chain link fence, simply wire the bamboo roll to the chain link. Do this at intervals of about four or five inches. Apply it to the top, bottom and middle of the fencing. Using galvanized wire is a good idea as it won’t deteriorate. Attach this galvanized wire to the wire running through the roll for extra strength.
If you will be using rolled bamboo for a new fencing project, make a frame to support the bamboo. You’ll need to use only wood posts to put in the ground. Then you’ll add the top and the bottom rails and run smaller wooden boards horizontally as well. The bamboo material will be attached to these rails. Attach it in the same way that you would for an existing wooden fence.
Bamboo fencing rolls can be trimmed to ensure a better fit using pruning sheers or a miter saw. Since bamboo is a type of grass and not wood, don’t allow any part of the bamboo to touch or be buried in the ground. That’s because bamboo deteriorates quickly when it comes in direct contact with the ground. That’s also why it’s necessary to use wood for framing and posts.
There are many different styles of rolled bamboo fencing, ranging from solid to split bamboo, as well as many unique styles of woven bamboo. What you decide upon will depend on the look you’re trying to achieve. One thing is certain and it’s that bamboo is one of the most versatile types of fencing available today.”
