Fence Rails
(6 Products)Fence rails provide the essential horizontal support that gives strength and structure to closeboard and featheredge fencing. At Materials Market, we stock two of the most commonly used profiles: arris rails and cant rails. Both are pressure-treated for long-term outdoor durability and offer excellent support for vertical fencing boards.
Arris rails feature a triangular profile, ideal for use with notched or morticed posts in traditional closeboard fencing systems. Cant rails have a sloped rectangular face, designed for surface fixing featheredge boards. Both options are available in a range of lengths to suit standard fence bay sizes.
What Are Fence Rails?
Fence rails - specifically arris rails and cant rails - are the horizontal timber supports that run between fence posts, forming the structural backbone of closeboard and featheredge fencing. Vertical boards are fixed to these rails to create a solid, long-lasting fence line.
At Materials Market, we supply both:
- Arris rails: Triangular in profile, designed to slot into notched or morticed posts
- Cant rails: Angled rectangular rails used for face-fixing featheredge boards
They’re typically used in:
- Closeboard fencing systems
- Featheredge fencing for garden boundaries
- Privacy fences and perimeter screens
Depending on the height and exposure of the fence, you'll generally need two or three rails per bay - one at the top, one at the bottom, and a middle rail for additional support on taller or wind-exposed runs.
Types of Fence Rails
Arris Rails
- Triangular profile with a 45° angle
- Designed to fit neatly into notched or morticed posts
- Commonly used in closeboard fencing
- Sloped edges help shed rainwater, reducing the risk of rot
- Available in pressure-treated softwood for extended lifespan
Cant Rails
- Angled, rectangular profile with a sloped top
- Ideal for supporting featheredge boards
- Sloped face helps deflect water
- Suitable for fixing directly to fence posts or recessed brackets
- Also pressure-treated for long-lasting outdoor use
Choosing the Right Rail
- Use arris rails when working with traditional closeboard fencing using notched posts or mortice-and-tenon joints
- Choose cant rails if you prefer a flat fixing surface or are working with face-mounted featheredge boards
- Allow for 2-3 rails per fence bay, depending on the height and location of the fence
- Always use galvanised fixings to prevent corrosion and maintain structural performance
Benefits
- Structural Support: Arris and cant rails form the framework that supports vertical boards, ensuring your fence stays straight, stable, and secure over time.
- Rot-Resistant: All of our rails are pressure-treated to protect against rot, fungal decay, and insect attack - ideal for long-term outdoor use.
- Efficient Water Run-Off: Both arris and cant rails feature sloped or angled faces that help shed rainwater, reducing the risk of moisture damage and extending the life of the fence.
- Compatible With Standard Fencing Systems: Suitable for use with notched posts (arris rails) or face-fixing applications (cant rails) in closeboard and featheredge fencing.
- Flexible Installation: Available in common lengths and easy to cut to size on-site, making them adaptable for various fence layouts and post spacings.
- Trade-Trusted Timber: Sawn and treated to a high standard for reliable performance in both residential and commercial fencing projects.
Frequently Asked Fence Rails Questions
What Is the Difference Between Arris Rails and Cant Rails?
Arris rails have a triangular profile and are typically used in traditional closeboard fencing systems with notched or morticed posts. Cant rails have a rectangular profile with a sloped top surface, designed for face-fixing featheredge boards. Both offer strong, weather-resistant support and are pressure-treated for longevity.
How Many Fence Rails Do I Need Per Panel?
This depends on the height and exposure of the fence.
- Fences up to 1.2m (4ft) typically use 2 rails (top and bottom).
- Fences over 1.5m (5ft) usually require 3 rails (top, middle, and bottom) for added support and wind resistance.
Are Your Fence Rails Pressure Treated?
Yes. All our arris and cant rails are pressure treated to protect against rot, fungal decay, and insect attack. This treatment ensures suitability for long-term use in external environments.
Can I Use Cant Rails With Notched Posts?
Cant rails are generally designed for face fixing, not for slotted or notched posts. For morticed or notched post systems, arris rails are typically the correct choice due to their angled profile.
How Do I Fix Arris Rails to Fence Posts?
Arris rails can be fixed using:
- Birdsmouth joints in notched posts
- Mortice and tenon joints
- Arris rail brackets for surface mounting
Always use galvanised screws or nails to prevent rust and prolong the life of the installation.
What Size Are Fence Rails?
Common sizes include:
- Arris Rails: 75mm x 75mm (triangular)
- Cant Rails: 47mm x 100mm or similar
Lengths typically range from 2.4m to 3.6m, depending on the layout of your fence bays.
Can Fence Rails Be Cut to Size?
Yes, timber fence rails can be safely cut to length on-site using a saw. After cutting, it's best to treat any exposed ends with end grain preservatives to maintain their resistance to moisture and decay.
Are Cant Rails Suitable for Closeboard Fencing?
Yes, cant rails are commonly used in modern closeboard fencing where featheredge boards are fixed directly onto the rail face. Their angled top helps water run off, preventing pooling and timber degradation.
