FAQs
Fencing
What types of timber fencing options are available?
Wooden fences offer a cost-effective means to enhance the security and privacy of your property. There is a diverse selection including various timbers, styles, and colours to cater to your specific preferences and budgetary constraints.
Whether you seek a traditional or modern look, the range of fencing options is designed to meet your requirements for both aesthetics and functionality.
Bespoke designed fencing can be done with steel, concrete, brick and timber, with options including:
- Traditional picket fencing
- Privacy screening
- Decorative panel fencing
- Boundary fencing
- Custom gates and entranceways
- Contemporary horizontal slat designs
What types of fencing materials are most suitable for Kapiti's coastal climate?
For coastal areas like Kapiti, we recommend treated timber or composite materials that withstand salt-laden air and moisture. Each offers different benefits: treated pine provides durability at a reasonable cost, garapa hardwood offers natural weather resistance with minimal maintenance and composite materials provide exceptional longevity with virtually no maintenance. Our team will assess your specific location and recommend the most appropriate material for your property’s microclimate.
How long does fence installation typically take?
Most residential fence installations are completed within 2-5 working days, depending on the size, complexity, and site conditions. Factors such as access, ground type, and weather can affect timeframes. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed timeline specific to your project.
Do I need council consent for my new fence?
In most cases, boundary fences under 2 metres in height don’t require specific building consent. However, road-facing fences, properties in special zones, or heritage areas may have additional requirements. Our team stays current with Kapiti Coast District Council regulations and can advise on any permits needed for your specific location.
What maintenance is required for timber fencing?
Maintenance requirements vary depending on the fence material. Timber fences may require staining or painting every few years to protect them from moisture and UV rays.
Regular cleaning and inspections will help prolong the life of your fence, especially in Kapiti’s climate.
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- Annual inspection for signs of rot, warping, or loose boards
- Cleaning with appropriate wood cleaner yearly
- Reapplication of stain or sealant every 2-3 years
- Prompt repair of damaged sections
- Vegetation control to prevent moisture retention
- Checking post stability following severe storms
Decking
What types of decking materials do you use?
We work with a variety of high-quality materials including treated pine, garapa, kwila hardwood, and premium composite decking. Each offers different benefits in terms of appearance, durability, maintenance requirements, and cost. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the best options for your specific needs and local conditions.
How long does a deck installation typically take?
Project timelines vary depending on size, complexity, and weather conditions. A standard residential deck typically takes 1-2 weeks from start to finish. Larger or more complex designs may require additional time. We’ll provide a detailed timeline during your initial consultation.
Do I need council consent for my deck?
In many cases, yes. Decks over certain heights (typically 1.5 meters above ground level) or attached to a dwelling generally require building consent from the Kapiti Coast District Council. Our team can handle the entire consent process for you, ensuring all requirements are met.
How long will my new deck last?
With proper maintenance, timber decks typically last 15-25 years, while quality composite decking can last 25-30+ years. Factors affecting longevity include material choice, local weather exposure, usage, and maintenance. We specifically choose materials suited to withstand Kapiti’s coastal conditions to maximise it’s life span.
What maintenance is required for decking?
Timber decking generally requires cleaning and resealing every 1-2 years to maintain its appearance and protect against weathering. Composite decking requires significantly less maintenance. Typically just occasional cleaning with soap and water. We’ll provide specific care instructions for your deck upon completion.
Can you add features like built-in seating or lighting to my deck?
Absolutely. We specialise in custom deck features including built-in seating, planter boxes, privacy screens, pergolas, and integrated lighting. These elements can transform a basic deck into a complete outdoor living space tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.
Retaining Walls
How do I know if my property needs a retaining wall?
Retaining walls are typically necessary when you have significant changes in elevation, soil erosion issues, or want to create flat, usable areas on sloped sites. If you notice soil washing away during rain, unstable slopes, or have limited flat space on your property, a retaining wall might be the solution. We can assess your site and recommend appropriate options.
What's the best retaining wall material for the Kapiti Coast?
The ideal material depends on your specific site conditions, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Treated timber works well for many smaller applications, while concrete blocks or natural stone provide greater durability for larger walls. In our coastal environment, we ensure all materials are suitable for exposure to salt air and local weather conditions.
Do I need consent for my retaining wall?
Retaining walls over 1.5 meters in height or those affecting drainage patterns typically require building consent from the Kapiti Coast District Council. Walls supporting structures or near property boundaries may have additional requirements. Our team handles all consent applications, ensuring your wall meets regulatory standards.
How long will my retaining wall last?
Properly constructed timber retaining walls typically last 15-20 years, while concrete and stone walls can last 50+ years with minimal maintenance. Factors affecting longevity include material quality, construction methods, drainage provisions, and site conditions. We build all our walls to maximise durability in Kapiti’s coastal environment.
How do you ensure retaining walls don't fail over time?
Successful retaining walls depend on proper design, quality materials, and excellent drainage. We incorporate appropriate foundations, backfilling techniques, and drainage systems in every wall we build. For taller walls, we often include engineering consultation to ensure structural integrity for decades to come.
Can retaining walls include other landscape features?
Absolutely. We specialise in multi-functional retaining walls that incorporate features like built-in seating, planter boxes, lighting, steps, and even water features. These integrated designs maximise your investment by combining necessary structural elements with attractive, usable landscape features.
Tree Management
How often should trees be pruned?
Pruning frequency depends on tree species, age, health, and location. Generally, most established trees benefit from professional pruning every 3-5 years. Young trees may require more frequent formative pruning, while trees near structures or power lines might need annual maintenance. We can establish a customised maintenance schedule based on your specific trees.
How do I know if a tree needs to be removed?
Signs that might indicate removal is necessary include significant deadwood, large cracks in the trunk, fungal growth at the base, leaning that has worsened over time, or proximity to structures that cannot be resolved through pruning. Our arborists can assess tree health and structural integrity to determine if removal is the safest option.
Do I need council permission to remove trees on my property?
In some cases, yes. The Kapiti Coast District Council has regulations regarding the removal of significant or protected trees, particularly native species or those above certain heights. Our team is familiar with local regulations and can advise on necessary permissions or handle the application process on your behalf.
What is the best time of year for tree work?
While emergency work can be done anytime, general maintenance is often best performed during winter dormancy for deciduous trees. However, different species have different optimal pruning times. Removals can typically be scheduled year-round, though we consider nesting birds and other wildlife factors when timing work.
How do you handle tree removals in tight spaces?
For trees in confined areas near buildings or in gardens with limited access, we employ specialised techniques such as sectional dismantling, where the tree is carefully removed in small sections. Our experienced team uses appropriate rigging methods and equipment to ensure safe removal without damaging surrounding structures or landscaping.
What happens to the tree waste after pruning or removal?
We offer complete cleanup services with all our tree work. Depending on your preference, we can remove all debris from your property, chip suitable material for use as mulch in your garden, or cut larger wood into firewood lengths. We always aim to recycle tree waste whenever possible as part of our environmental commitment.
