We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
Back Rails
Create a strong and durable framework for your closeboard or featheredge fence with our high-quality timber back rails. A back rail, also known as a fence backing rail, is a rectangular rail that runs horizontally between fence posts. It provides the essential structure needed to securely fix your vertical featheredge boards, creating a robust and long-lasting fence.
Choosing the Right Back Rail For Your Fence
The Foundation of a Strong Fence
Our fence backing rails are the ideal choice for building a traditional fence. Unlike arris rails, which have a triangular profile, these rectangular rails offer a flat surface, making them simple to work with and fix to posts. A backing rail is also commonly used along the very top of the featheredge boards as a solid fixing point for a capping rail, ensuring a neat and professional finish.
Durable, Treated Timber
Every treated fencing back rail we stock is pressure treated to protect it from rot and insect attack, ensuring it will stand the test of time in all weather conditions. We offer our back rail selection in both a natural green and a classic brown finish to perfectly match the rest of your fencing components.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the main difference between a back rail and an arris rail?
The main difference is the shape. A back rail is rectangular, providing a flat face for fixing. An arris rail is triangular. Back rails are often considered easier to install for DIY projects as they can be fixed directly to the face of any flat post with screws, whereas arris rails often require specific brackets or morticed posts.
- How many back rails do I need for my fence?
This depends on the height of your fence. For fences up to 1.2m (4ft), two rails (bottom and top) are usually sufficient. For fences 1.5m (5ft) and above, it is standard practice to use three fence backing rails (bottom, middle, and top) to ensure the fence is strong and the featheredge boards are fully supported without warping.
- How do you fix a back rail to a fence post?
Because they have a flat profile, back rails are very simple to fix. You can screw them directly into the face of timber posts using appropriate exterior-grade screws. For concrete posts, you can use multi-purpose bolts or specialised brackets to secure the rail.
Delivering Across London & The South East
Our dedicated delivery fleet serves a wide area, including London, the South East, and the Home Counties. We deliver to all locations within Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, and West Sussex.
Find your nearest branch for collections or local delivery information.