Fence Fundamentals - Your Guide to Custom Built Fences

Why Custom Built Fences Are the Perfect Solution for Your Property

Custom built fences offer Melbourne homeowners the perfect blend of security, privacy, and style that standard pre-fabricated options simply can't match. Unlike mass-produced fencing panels, custom solutions are designed specifically for your property's unique dimensions, aesthetic requirements, and functional needs.

Key benefits of custom built fences include:

• Perfect fit - Built to your exact measurements and site conditions

• Design flexibility - Choose materials, height, style, and features that match your vision

• Improved property value - Custom fencing significantly boosts kerb appeal and market value

• Superior durability - Quality materials and expert craftsmanship ensure long-lasting performance

• Functional customisation - Address specific needs like privacy, security, or challenging terrain

Whether you're looking to improve your home's street appeal, create a private backyard retreat, or secure your property boundaries, custom fencing delivers solutions that standard options simply can't provide. The investment in bespoke design pays dividends through improved functionality, aesthetic appeal, and property value.

I'm Jake Bunston, and I've been designing and installing custom built fences across Melbourne for over 7 years through Make Fencing. My hands-on experience has taught me that every property is unique, and the best fencing solutions are those custom specifically to each homeowner's needs and vision.

What Are Custom Built Fences and How Do They Differ from Standard Options

Think of custom built fences as the difference between a custom suit and something off the rack. While both do the job, one is crafted specifically for you, and the other is made to fit "most people" – which often means it doesn't quite fit anyone perfectly.

Custom built fences are bespoke solutions designed from the ground up for your specific property. Every measurement, material choice, and design detail is custom to your unique requirements, site conditions, and aesthetic vision. It's personalised fencing at its finest.

Standard pre-fabricated panels, on the other hand, come in predetermined sizes and styles. They're designed for quick installation and mass appeal, but they often require compromises. Got a sloped block? Tough luck. Want a specific height that matches your home's proportions? You'll need to make do with what's available.

The beauty of custom solutions lies in their ability to work with your property, not against it. Whether you're dealing with challenging terrain, heritage requirements, or simply want something that reflects your personal style, custom fencing adapts to your needs rather than forcing you to adapt to its limitations.

This property-specific approach means your fence can seamlessly integrate with existing landscaping, complement your home's architecture, and address functional requirements like privacy, security, or wind protection. It's the difference between a fence that looks like it was added as an afterthought and one that looks like it was always meant to be there.

Key Advantages of Choosing Custom Built Fences

When Melbourne homeowners invest in custom built fences, they're not just buying a boundary marker – they're investing in their property's future. The benefits extend far beyond the obvious aesthetic appeal.

Improved property value is perhaps the most compelling advantage. A well-designed custom fence doesn't just look good; it signals quality and attention to detail that potential buyers notice. It's the kind of improvement that pays dividends when it comes time to sell.

The perfect fit advantage cannot be overstated. Custom fences eliminate those awkward gaps, unsightly joins, and "close enough" compromises that plague standard installations. Your fence fits your property like it was always meant to be there – because it was designed specifically for that purpose.

Design flexibility opens up a world of possibilities. You're not limited to whatever happens to be in stock or available in standard sizes. Want a specific colour that matches your home's trim? No problem. Need integrated planters or decorative elements? Absolutely doable. Custom fencing puts you in the driver's seat.

Material choice becomes genuinely meaningful when you're not restricted to pre-selected options. You can choose materials based on your climate, maintenance preferences, budget, and aesthetic goals. Whether that's beautiful cedar for a natural look or powder-coated aluminium for low maintenance, the choice is yours.

The longevity of custom installations typically exceeds standard options because they're built with superior construction methods and materials chosen specifically for your conditions. When something is made to last in your specific environment, it usually does.

Neighbourhood appeal matters more than many people realise. Custom fences can be designed to improve the character of your street while still reflecting your personal style. They can comply with heritage overlays, match local architectural styles, or simply lift the overall aesthetic of your area.

Finally, the functional benefits of custom solutions often surprise homeowners. Custom fencing can address specific challenges like noise reduction, wind protection, privacy from particular angles, or security concerns that standard options simply can't tackle effectively.

Materials and Design Options for Custom Built Fences

One of the biggest advantages of choosing custom built fences is the freedom to select exactly the right materials and design elements for your Melbourne property. Unlike standard fencing options that limit your choices, custom solutions let you balance durability, aesthetics, budget, and maintenance requirements to create something truly perfect for your home.

The material you choose will largely determine your fence's longevity, appearance, and upkeep needs. Melbourne's variable climate—from scorching summer days to wet winters—means selecting materials that can handle our unique conditions is crucial for long-term satisfaction.

Wood Fencing Materials

There's something timeless about timber fencing that just works with Melbourne homes. Whether you're complementing a heritage Victorian terrace or adding warmth to a modern build, wood offers best versatility and natural appeal.

Cedar stands out as the premium choice for good reason. This beautiful timber naturally resists rot, insects, and moisture damage—essential qualities for Melbourne's unpredictable weather. Cedar ages gracefully, developing a lovely silver-grey patina if left untreated, or holds stains and paints beautifully if you prefer a more polished look.

Pine offers excellent value for larger boundary fences or budget-conscious projects. While it requires treatment for optimal durability, treated pine can last decades with proper care. It's readily available and works well for both privacy screens and decorative applications.

For those wanting the absolute best, redwood delivers premium performance with exceptional natural resistance and stunning appearance. It's an investment piece that can last generations with minimal maintenance.

The beauty of timber custom built fences lies in their customisation potential. You can choose decorative picket tops, horizontal slat designs, or even mix materials for visual interest. The downside? Timber does require regular maintenance—typically staining or painting every few years—to maintain its appearance and weather resistance.

Metal Fencing Options

Metal fencing brings together security, style, and remarkably low maintenance requirements. It's particularly popular for Melbourne's coastal suburbs where salt air can be tough on other materials.

Aluminium has become increasingly popular for its lightweight nature and complete rust resistance. Available in dozens of powder-coated colours, aluminium fencing suits everything from ultra-modern homes to classic Federation styles. It's especially practical for sloped sites where its flexibility really shines.

Wrought iron remains the gold standard for elegance and security. Perfect for heritage properties or statement front fences, wrought iron can be crafted into intricate patterns or kept beautifully simple. Modern powder coating techniques mean today's wrought iron fences resist corrosion far better than their predecessors.

Steel and tubular steel options offer exceptional strength with clean, contemporary lines. These materials are virtually maintenance-free once properly powder coated, making them ideal for busy homeowners who want security without ongoing upkeep.

Metal fencing does come with higher upfront costs, particularly for custom wrought iron work. The materials can also get quite hot during Melbourne's summer months, and some styles offer less privacy than solid timber or composite panels.

Modern Synthetic Materials

For homeowners who want the look of traditional materials without the maintenance headaches, synthetic options have come a long way in recent years.

Vinyl fences offer impressive durability and colour retention. Modern vinyl won't rot, warp, or attract termites, and it handles Melbourne's UV exposure remarkably well. Available in various colours and textures—including convincing wood-look finishes—vinyl provides excellent value over its lifespan.

Composite materials blend recycled wood fibres with plastics to create fencing that looks natural but performs like synthetic materials. These products resist weather, pests, and fading while requiring only occasional cleaning to look their best.

The trade-off with synthetic materials is typically higher initial investment and somewhat less flexibility for highly ornate or intricate custom designs. However, for most residential applications, they offer an excellent balance of performance, appearance, and convenience that many Melbourne homeowners find appealing.

Planning and Installation Process for Custom Built Fences

Getting your perfect custom built fence isn't just about picking materials and colours—it's about working with professionals who understand your vision and can bring it to life seamlessly. At Make Fencing, we've refined our process over more than a decade to ensure every project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Our consultation process begins with understanding exactly what you want to achieve. Whether you're looking to boost privacy, improve security, or simply create stunning kerb appeal, we'll discuss your goals, budget, and design preferences in detail. This isn't a rushed sales pitch—it's a genuine conversation about how fencing can transform your property.

The site assessment comes next, where our team visits your property to measure, photograph, and evaluate your terrain. Every block has its quirks—sloping ground, existing trees, challenging access, or unusual boundary shapes. We identify these factors early so your fence design works perfectly with your property's unique characteristics.

During the design phase, we create a custom solution that ticks all your boxes. This involves recommending the best materials for your climate and usage, finalising details like heights and gate positions, and selecting finishes that complement your home's architecture. You'll see exactly what your fence will look like before we start building.

Project management is where our experience really shows. We coordinate permits, schedule materials delivery, and manage the installation timeline to minimise disruption to your daily routine. Our experienced installation team constructs your fence with precision, ensuring every post is perfectly aligned and every panel fits seamlessly.

Quality control is the final step before handover. We inspect the finished fence thoroughly, checking that workmanship meets our high standards and that you're completely satisfied with the result. After all, your fence will be protecting and beautifying your property for decades to come.

Permits and Regulations You Need to Know

Melbourne councils take fencing regulations seriously, and getting it wrong can be costly. Building permits are typically required for fences over certain heights—usually 1.2 metres for front boundaries and 2.0 metres for side or rear boundaries, though this varies by council area.

Height restrictions differ significantly depending on your location and property type. Front fences often have lower maximum heights than side or rear fences, particularly in heritage areas or character overlay zones. Some councils are stricter than others, especially in areas like Brighton or Toorak where streetscape character is protected.

Boundary requirements can be tricky to steer. Your fence must be placed on or within your property boundary, which means checking title plans and sometimes discussing arrangements with neighbours. Victoria's Fences Act outlines specific requirements for cost-sharing and notification when fences are shared between properties.

Council consent may be required for certain fence types, particularly brick or masonry fences, or those adjacent to main roads. Some councils also have specific requirements for heritage properties or areas with neighbourhood character overlays.

The good news? We handle all the compliance paperwork for you. Council approval can take several weeks to months, so we factor this into your project timeline from the start. No nasty surprises, no delays—just a smooth process that gets your fence approved and installed properly.

Professional Installation vs DIY Considerations

We get it—there's something appealing about rolling up your sleeves and building your own fence. But custom built fences demand a level of precision and expertise that goes well beyond weekend DIY projects.

Safety concerns are significant when working with heavy materials, power tools, and potentially underground utilities. Professional installers have the training and insurance to handle these risks safely. Expertise requirements include understanding soil conditions, proper foundation work, and sometimes complex earthworks—skills that take years to develop.

Liability issues are worth considering too. If your fence fails and causes injury or property damage, you could be legally responsible if it wasn't installed by qualified professionals. Most insurance policies also provide better coverage for professionally installed fencing.

Tool and equipment requirements go far beyond basic hand tools. Quality fence installation often requires post-hole diggers, concrete mixers, levels, and specialised hardware—equipment that's expensive to buy for a one-off project.

Time investment is another factor. What might take our experienced team a few days could stretch into weeks for a DIY project, especially when you factor in learning curves and inevitable setbacks.

Warranty coverage is perhaps the most compelling reason to choose professional installation. Our workmanship guarantee means you're protected if anything goes wrong—something you simply can't get with DIY installation.

For small repairs or basic maintenance, DIY can make sense. But for boundary fencing, pool fencing, or any custom built fence project, trusting the experts delivers better results, faster completion, and genuine peace of mind.

Cost Factors and Investment Value of Custom Built Fences

Custom fencing is an investment in your home’s value, security, and enjoyment. Costs will vary based on several factors:

• Material Choice: Timber is typically less expensive than metal, vinyl, or composite, but requires more maintenance. Wrought iron and custom steel are premium options.

• Design Complexity: Decorative elements, curves, stepped heights, or integrated gates increase both materials and labour costs.

• Site Conditions: Sloped blocks, rock, tree roots, or limited access can add to installation time and expense.

• Fence Height & Length: Bigger fences cost more—simple maths!

• Labour: Skilled trades are more expensive, but deliver lasting quality.

• Permits & Compliance: Council fees and permit costs may apply, especially for non-standard designs or heights.

Typical Ranges: Expect to pay from $70–$200 per linear metre for custom fencing. This range depends heavily on the materials you choose and the complexity of the design. While the initial cost might be higher than standard, pre-built fence panels, the long-term benefits—like increased longevity, reduced maintenance needs, and improved curb appeal—make custom fencing a truly smart investment for your property.

How Custom Fencing Increases Property Value

Custom fences are more than just a boundary—they’re a statement. Here’s how they add value:

• Kerb Appeal: A beautifully designed fence sets the tone for your property, impressing buyers and visitors alike.

• Security & Privacy: Buyers and renters prioritise homes with secure, private outdoor spaces.

• Architectural Integration: Custom designs can perfectly match your home’s style, from Victorian terraces in Fitzroy to modern townhouses in Bayswater.

• Neighbourhood Standards: Upmarket suburbs often set a high bar for fencing—custom solutions help you meet (or exceed) local expectations.

• Investment Returns: Studies show that quality fencing can return up to 50–70% of its cost in resale value, especially when it improves street appeal and functionality.

Maintenance and Longevity of Custom Built Fences

A well-built custom fence is designed to last, but a little maintenance goes a long way. Here’s what to expect by material:

• Timber: Regular staining or painting every 2–3 years protects against UV and moisture. Keep soil and mulch away from the base to prevent rot. Replace damaged boards promptly.

• Metal: Powder-coated aluminium and steel are virtually maintenance-free—just wash down occasionally to remove dirt and cobwebs. Check for scratches and touch up paint if needed to prevent rust.

• Vinyl & Composite: Hose off to remove dust, leaves, or cobwebs. No need for painting, and resistant to insects and rot.

• Brick: Inspect mortar joints every few years; pressure wash if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals.

Lifespan Expectations:

• Timber: 10–25 years (with proper care)

• Aluminium/Steel: 25–50+ years

• Vinyl/Composite: 20–40 years

• Brick: 50+ years

Regular maintenance doesn’t just extend your fence’s life—it keeps your home looking its best year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Built Fences

How long does it take to design and install a custom fence?

The timeline for custom built fences really depends on your project's complexity and local council requirements. Most Melbourne homeowners can expect the entire process to take anywhere from 4 to 13 weeks from start to finish.

Here's how it typically breaks down: Design and quoting usually takes 1-2 weeks, while council permits can be the wildcard—sometimes just a few days, other times up to 8 weeks depending on your local council and fence specifications. Material fabrication generally takes 1-3 weeks, especially for custom metalwork or specialty timber treatments.

The actual installation is often the quickest part—most residential projects are completed within 1-4 days. Larger properties or complex designs with multiple gates and features might take a week or so.

We always keep you in the loop throughout the process, so you'll know exactly where things stand. The good news is that most of the waiting happens before we even start digging, so once installation begins, you'll see your new fence take shape quickly.

What warranty options are available for custom fence installations?

Every custom built fence we install at Make Fencing comes with our comprehensive workmanship warranty of at least 12 months. This covers any issues related to our installation, from post alignment to gate operation.

But here's where it gets even better—many of the materials we use come with their own manufacturer warranties that can extend 10-25 years or longer. Powder-coated steel often carries 15-20 year warranties against corrosion, while composite materials frequently come with 25+ year guarantees against fading and structural issues.

The specific warranty coverage depends on your chosen materials and design. During your consultation, we'll explain exactly what's covered and for how long. We stand behind our work—if something goes wrong due to our installation, we'll make it right without any hassle.

How do I choose the right contractor for my custom fencing project?

Choosing the right contractor for your custom built fences can make the difference between a fence that lasts decades and one that becomes a headache. After over a decade in Melbourne's fencing industry, I've seen what separates the good contractors from the great ones.

Experience matters enormously—look for contractors who've been designing and installing custom fences for at least several years. They should have a solid portfolio of work similar to what you're envisioning, and be able to show you examples of how they've handled challenges like sloped blocks or heritage overlays.

Transparent communication is crucial. Your contractor should provide detailed, itemised quotes with no hidden fees, explain the permit process clearly, and keep you updated throughout the project. They should also demonstrate knowledge of local council requirements—every Melbourne council has different rules, and experienced contractors know these inside out.

Don't forget to check recent reviews from other Melbourne homeowners and ask about warranty coverage. A contractor who's confident in their work will offer solid guarantees and stand behind their installations.

At Make Fencing, we pride ourselves on friendly service, quality craftsmanship, and clear honest advice. We're always happy to chat about your project and provide recommendations based on your specific needs and budget.

Conclusion

Choosing custom built fences is about more than just marking your boundaries—it’s about shaping a space that’s secure, stylish, and truly your own. Whether you’re after the inviting warmth of timber, the sleek strength of steel, or the effortless upkeep of composite, a custom fence from Make Fencing ensures your property gets the perfect fit and finish every time.

At Make Fencing, we bring over a decade of experience to every Melbourne project—big or small, residential or commercial. Our team prides itself on genuine, friendly service and a customer-first approach. We’ll guide you from the very first sketch right through to the final inspection, always with clear communication and a focus on quality. No jargon, no headaches—just practical advice and beautiful results that last.

If you’re ready to lift your outdoor space, boost your property’s street appeal, or simply enjoy some extra peace of mind, we’re here to help. Learn more about our custom fencing services or get in touch today for a relaxed, obligation-free chat about your ideas.

Make Fencing is Melbourne’s trusted partner for custom built fences, gates, and standout feature fencing. We’re proud to serve Bayswater, Melbourne, and nearby suburbs, designing and building fencing solutions that bring real value, security, and style to every property.

Let’s make your fence the best feature on your street—crafted for you, by locals who care.