Bamboo Fence Basics

Get information about installing a bamboo fence and the types of bamboo fencing available.

A bamboo fence is a beautiful addition to any yard, garden, or patio. Depending on the style you choose, bamboo can create a smooth, elegant look. On the other hand, if you’re looking for that easy, tropical feel, bamboo is ideal.

Bamboo provides homeowners with the opportunity to turn a tired looking yard into a wonderful new area. Feel refreshed and revitalized just spending time in your tranquil haven. Enjoy entertaining friends with backyard get-togethers in your beautiful new outdoor space.

As well as being aesthetically pleasing, bamboo fencing is becoming increasingly popular because of its versatility and variety. And that’s a good thing because it is also one of the most eco friendly fencing products out there. The importance of this fact can’t be discounted in today’s world.

Bamboo provides a very viable alternative to the use of hardwood in the construction of fences. Instead of the hundreds of years it takes to regenerate a hardwood forest after logging, bamboo takes only a few years to regrow.

That’s because bamboo is a type of grass, so it grows back quickly. And the harvesting of bamboo canes can be done without damaging the environment. It’s easy to see why bamboo is considered a natural renewable resource.

If you’re thinking about installing a new bamboo fence or bringing a new look to an existing fence, here is some basic information. 

Types Of Bamboo Fencing

There is a huge variety in the types of bamboo fencing available and just about any kind of bamboo will work for any application. Basically, you just need to choose the one that has the most appeal to you.

You can mix and match dozens of bamboo fence styles, in many different hues and colors. Most commercially made bamboo comes premade in fence panels or in rolls. Usually they are made from poles or canes ranging from ½" to 1" in diameter, held together with a galvanized type of wire. It’s best if this wire is stainless steel so it won’t rust and stain your fence over time.

If you prefer you can get untreated bamboo poles and canes and build your own fence. Doing that allows you to completely customize the appearance and overall style of your fencing.

Another option is woven bamboo panels or rolls. This type of fencing may use smaller canes which are woven together into bundles, or split bamboo canes. Both types are held together with galvanized wire.

An advantage of using poles and cane fencing is that these can be expected to last on average about 20 years. Woven or split bamboo fencing will last only about 10 years.

Bamboo Fencing Installation

Bamboo can be installed either on a new fence or over an existing fence.

To install over an existing chain link fence, it’s a simple matter to wrap rolls of bamboo fencing or bamboo fence panels along the fence. Attach by tieing heavy duty stainless steel wire at regular intervals.

The same method is done over a wooden fence, except that you would use stainless steel heavy duty staples in place of the wire.

Bamboo can also be used on new fence construction for a natural, clean appearance. It requires a little more work than installation on an existing fence because you will have to build the frame that will support this stand-alone fence.

Wooden fence poles first have to be set in the ground at regular intervals to support the bamboo fence panels or rolls. It’s important to use wood for these posts because bamboo deteriorates rapidly when it comes into direct contact with the ground. To avoid a gap at the bottom of your fence, either lay a wooden board along the bottom or use wire mesh.

There’s nothing quite like a unique bamboo fence to help create the peaceful, relaxing setting you are looking for.