How to use James Hardie Axon for fence?

[bow2021]

Hi there,

Seen some good inspo on the community for fencing and thinking of using James Hardie axon for cladding to make our garden area look me pleasing to the eye. Have a wooden fence at the moment but was thinking I will just put in new posts and build a new structure for the fibre cement panels in front of it. Had the idea of using colorbond c shape steel posts and attaching wooden frame to them as they are cheaper than timber and also straighter. Is this a bad idea? Would they take the weight. I’m not going to be resting the fibre cement on the floor then attaching as it’s in front of a plant bed. So completely freestanding attached to posts and frame. 
just need to know if this is a bad idea? 
cheers. 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @bow2021,

It's great that you're looking into using James Hardie Axon cladding for your fence, as it’s a stylish and durable choice. However, regarding your idea of using Colorbond C-shaped steel posts for the frame, I’d advise caution.

James Hardie Axon cladding is 9mm fibre cement, which is heavier than Colorbond fencing panels. As such, the Colorbond posts may not be able to support the extra weight, as they aren't designed to handle the load that fibre cement panels carry. Colorbond posts, while great for fencing panels, are not particularly structurally sound and can be a bit flimsy. Their strength comes from being used with multiple posts along a long span, or often when attached to immovable structures like a house wall.

For your project, I'd recommend using solid H4-treated timber posts. These are designed to handle the weight of fibre cement cladding and will provide the stability and support you need for a freestanding structure. This way, you’ll ensure that your fence remains secure and durable over time. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[bow2021]

Thanks @MitchellMc  I was thinking this could be a bit a dodgy, appreciate the advice and the link for the posts, that really helps. Would it also be  possible to utilise the current fence and maybe add more posts between to put the frame on? Or did you think just make something freestanding that doesn’t touch the other fence? Just trying to save money really on the posts as they are quite pricey and looking to put them in every 1200mm at least  for the panels. 

[EricL]

Hello @bow2021 

Would it be possible for you to post a photo of your fence? This will give our members a better idea of your fences current condition. We can then make recommendations if it is strong enough or if you'll need new posts for your fencing plans. 

Eric