How to Dispose or Get Rid of Old Fence Panels

How to Dispose or Get Rid of Old Fence Panels

If your fence panels are coming to the end of their life, whether due to age, storm damage or a garden redesign, you may be wondering what to do with them. Removing old fencing is often harder than it looks, and getting rid of it responsibly can be just as challenging. In this guide, we look at the most practical and environmentally responsible ways to dispose of old fence panels, with tips to help you avoid unnecessary stress or costs.

Reuse or Repurpose

Before you start looking into disposal options, consider whether any parts of your old fence panels can be repurposed. Solid timber sections may still have life in them. Gardeners often find creative uses for old fencing, from raised beds to compost bin structures and wildlife shelters. Repurposing saves money, reduces waste and can add rustic charm to your garden.

You could also offer them for free via local community groups or online marketplaces such as Freecycle or Facebook Marketplace, or put on a driveway with a sign stating ‘free’. One person’s waste is often another’s project material.

Take Them to Your Local Recycling Centre

Most Household Waste Recycling Centres accept old fencing, but it’s essential to check with your local council first. Fence panels are usually classed as DIY or construction waste, and some centres limit the volume you can dispose of or charge a small fee.

You’ll need a suitable vehicle to transport them, as standard car boots often aren’t up to the task. Laying the panels flat and cutting them down in advance can help save space and protect your vehicle.

Book a Council Bulky Waste Collection

Many councils offer a collection service for bulky waste, including old garden fencing. You’ll likely need to pay a fee, and availability can vary, so booking in advance is recommended. Be aware that you may need to carry the fence panels to the kerbside yourself, and some services will only take certain types of materials.

Hire a Skip

If you’re removing a large number of fence panels or carrying out a full garden renovation, a skip can be a convenient solution. Skips allow you to dispose of all your waste in one go, and the hire company will take it away for you.

However, this option can be costly. Additionally, if the skip needs to go on the road, you may require a permit. Always check whether the skip provider accepts treated timber, as not all do.

Use a Man & Van Rubbish Clearance Service

If you want a quicker and more flexible option, a man and van rubbish clearance service can collect and dispose of your old fence panels on your schedule. This service includes loading and transport, saving you time and effort.

Important: Ensure the person or company you hire has a valid waste carrier licence. This protects you legally and ensures your fence panels won’t end up being fly tipped. You can check their licence with the Environment Agency. If waste is disposed of illegally, the homeowner can be held liable.

If You’re Hiring a Fence Installer

If you're replacing old fencing with new fence panels, and using a contractor or fencing installer, confirm from the start who is responsible for disposing of the old materials. Many professional installers include this in their service, but not all do.

Clarify in writing whether they’ll remove and dispose of the old panels, posts and fixings. If not, you’ll need to make your own arrangements. Again, any waste disposal should be done by someone licensed to carry it.

If you are looking for a trusted professional, read about our Approved Installer Scheme.

Avoid Burning Fence Panels

Burning old fence panels might seem like a quick solution, but it’s not safe or environmentally responsible. Most timber used for fencing is pressure-treated to prevent decay, which means it contains preservatives and chemicals that release toxic fumes when burned.

Burning treated wood is illegal in many areas, and doing so can lead to complaints, fines and health risks. Choose a legal disposal method that’s safer for you and better for the environment.

Choose New Fence Panels with a Long Guarantee

If you're dealing with the hassle of disposing of old fencing, it makes sense to think ahead. Next time, choose new fence panels that are built to last.

At Jacksons Fencing, we manufacture high quality timber fence panels that come with a 25 year guarantee against rot and insect attack. This level of longevity means you won't need to worry about replacing or disposing of them again for decades.

While premium fencing may cost more initially, it can save thousands over time. You're also making a more sustainable choice. Since treated timber must go to landfill, installing longer-lasting fencing means you’ll be contributing to landfill far less often; once every 25 years instead of every 10 to 15 years on average.

Final Thoughts

Disposing of old fence panels doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re repurposing them for your garden, using your local recycling centre or hiring a licensed waste disposal service, there are plenty of responsible ways to deal with unwanted fencing.

Planning ahead and investing in long-lasting fence panels can make a real difference. Not only does it save time and money in the future, but it also reduces your environmental impact.

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