Acoustic Fencing and Visual Screening

Q: What is the difference between reflective and absorptive acoustic fencing?

Reflective barriers are hard surfaces that bounce sound waves back away from the protected area. Absorptive barriers (often used around industrial plant or rail lines) are designed to "soak up" the sound to prevent it from echoing back across the source area. For most residential and commercial boundaries, reflective timber systems are the standard choice.

Developed for housing boundaries, roadside projects, commercial estates and mixed-use developments, these systems deliver reliable noise control with minimal maintenance. The result is a durable, sustainable and visually appealing barrier that protects people and property from unwanted noise intrusion.

Beyond noise reduction, these systems act as effective visual screens, offering immediate privacy and helping to soften the impact of infrastructure or unsightly plant machinery.

Key Features

Noise Mitigation: Dense timber construction eliminates gaps to reflect or absorb sound waves.
Visual Privacy: Solid panels provide a complete screen, ideal for residential boundaries or security applications.
Durable Construction: Pressure-treated timber ensures longevity even in exposed roadside or coastal environments.
Aesthetic Appeal: Designed to blend naturally with landscaping while defining a clear, professional boundary.

Davison Fencing were incredibly and easy to work with from start to finish. Their communication was clear, the process was smooth, and the quality of their workmanship is outstanding. I’m extremely pleased with the final result and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable, high quality fencing contractor.

Construction Manager, Willmott Dixon

Frequently Asked Questions

How does acoustic fencing actually work?

Acoustic fencing works by acting as a sound barrier that interrupts the path of noise from the source (like a road or factory) to the receiver (like a house). The fencing is constructed with no gaps and high mass, which either reflects the sound back towards the source or absorbs it, depending on the specific system specified.

What is the difference between reflective and absorptive acoustic fencing?

Reflective barriers are hard surfaces that bounce sound waves back away from the protected area. Absorptive barriers (often used around industrial plant or rail lines) are designed to “soak up” the sound to prevent it from echoing back across the source area. For most residential and commercial boundaries, reflective timber systems are the standard choice.

Can acoustic fencing be used for residential gardens?

Yes. While they are often used on large highways or commercial sites, we frequently install acoustic fencing for housing developments. They are particularly effective for new builds situated near busy roads, providing homeowners with a quieter garden and complete privacy.

How high does the fence need to be?

To be effective, an acoustic fence must break the “line of sight” between the noise source and the listener. The higher the fence, the better the performance. We can advise on the optimal height based on the topography of your site and the location of the noise source.