Bamboo fencing, an option for outdoor beauty

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Bamboo fencing offers a natural and sustainable option for visually appealing outdoor spaces. It’s durability, eco-friendliness, and versatility make it an excellent choice for a variety of uses.

Installation

According to Sadat Ssewanyana, a designer, an individual’s preference determines the style and design of bamboo fencing. Before installing an appropriate fence, Ssewanyana says one must first measure its height and length, and thereafter prepare the necessary materials and tools.

These include a bamboo cutter, a tape measure, hacksaw, bamboo, a welding machine, and angle metal frames. For modern bamboo fences, a welded-angle metal frame and posts are designed, where bamboo panels are placed vertically and fastened with a welding machine so that they cannot be pulled out of the metal frame.

Bamboo fencing offers a natural and sustainable option for visually appealing outdoor spaces. (Courtesy photo)

“We construct the bamboo fencing off the ground to shield it from soil moisture that could damage it. Therefore, we elevate the fence by either installing it on a raised platform or using metal posts. However, if the fencing is to be in contact with the ground in order to provide additional protection, it is considered necessary to set up a pressure-treated wood or water-proof barrier between the bamboo and the soil,” Ssewanyana points out. 

Durability, cost

The fence is durable when appropriately treated and well-maintained through varnishing to ensure it can withstand weather conditions over time. Bamboo fencing is a cost-effective option compared to other alternatives such as perimeter walls, wood, or metal. The total cost of the project will depend on how much fencing a homeowner needs, the colour and style of bamboo, as well as the height of the fence.

Challenges

• If the fence is not treated properly and well-maintained periodically, it is prone to rotting, especially if it is not appropriately protected against moisture and insects or pests’ damage.
• Some bamboo panels may not match the architectural style and design of the house or the surrounding area. Therefore, before installing various bamboo styles and designs in his or her residential or commercial space, a homeowner must consider the design and style of the structures.
• Harsh weather conditions, such as exposure to sunlight, can occasionally affect the durability of the fencing. Also, the fence can lead insecurity if it is not well-installed. It may end up being weak and easy to pull down.

Bamboo fencing offers a natural and sustainable option for visually appealing outdoor spaces. (Courtesy photo)

Maintenance tips

• Ssewanyana recommends regular inspections for signs of damage, such as splits or cracks. These should be repaired immediately, to prevent any potential damage.
• If there is loose debris or dirt, one can use a soft brush or broom, which prevents the spread of dirt and grime.
• Gently scrub the bamboo’s surface with a mild detergent and water mixture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools, as they can damage the natural fibres of the fencing.
• Consider re-applying a protective coating periodically to maintain the bamboo’s natural beauty and resistance to the elements and to prevent it from fading in order to enhance its durability.
• Trim any overhanging branches or overgrown vegetables near the fence which can lead to moisture buildup and potential damage.
• Avoid placing heavy objects or leaning ladders against the fencing to ensure its lifespan.
• Add plants or climbing vines near the fence to enhance its natural beauty and blend it into the surrounding landscape.

Expert advice

Peter Kisibo Katantanzi, a construction engineer from Mukono says using bamboo is a slightly new trend that Ugandans are considering. Also, bamboo is hard to find, which makes it a bit costly, compared to other construction materials such as sand, cement, and blocks, which are readily available.

Katantanzi adds that there are few people who have the technical skills to install bamboo as a sustainable building material for construction projects. Therefore, a homeowner who is interested in installing bamboo at his or her residential place must be very careful when searching for a bamboo designer.