Frequently Asked Questions

Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our products and services. From sheds, fencing, and decking to ordering, delivery and payment.

Bespoke Sizes available

Quality Products

Eco products

Member discount

Family owned

4 Yorkshire showrooms

Placing your order

You can place an order in three easy ways:

  • Online – Browse our website, add products to your basket, and check out securely.

  • By Phone – Call our friendly sales team to order directly.

  • In Store – Visit one of our depots to see products in person and place your order.

No, you can check out as a guest. However, creating an account allows you to track your orders, save delivery details, and view your order history as well as get a 5% discount on most items.

You can sign up here

Absolutely. Our team is always happy to help you choose the right fencing panels, posts, or gates. You can contact us by phone, email, or visit in person for guidance.

Get in touch

We accept major debit and credit cards, as well as Klarna, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay and direct bank transfer

Yes. Many of our fencing and gates can be made to measure. Simply speak with our sales team to discuss your requirements. Most of our sheds and garden buildings can also be made bespoke.

Yes, we offer local and nationwide delivery, starting at £30 for local items and £9.99 for smaller items nationwide. Delivery costs and times will be shown at checkout or confirmed when ordering by phone.

Yes. If you prefer, you can choose Click & Collect from one of our depots. You can choose a collection date at checkout and a preferred branch.

Lead times vary depending on the product and season. Standard items are usually delivered within 5–10 working days, while made-to-order products may take longer.

Choosing your fence

It depends on your needs:

  • Lap panels – Affordable and simple, great for standard boundaries.

  • Featheredge/closeboard – Stronger and more durable, ideal for security.

  • Picket fencing – Decorative and traditional, perfect for front gardens.

  • Decorative/slatted panels – Stylish, modern options for design-led spaces.

View our fencing range

In most UK areas, garden fencing is allowed up to 2 metres high at the back and 1 metre at the front (facing a highway) without planning permission. Always check with your local council if unsure.

  • Concrete posts – Long-lasting, low maintenance, and resistant to rot.

  • Wooden posts – Easier to handle, more natural-looking, and often cheaper.

  • Composite posts – Strong, low maintenance and rot-resistant.

The choice depends on your budget, style preference, and how long you want your fence to last.

View our fencing posts

Yes. Pressure-treated panels last longer as they resist rot and weather damage. All Atkinsons’ fencing comes pre-treated for maximum protection.

• Check posts and panels regularly for damage.

• Apply wood preservative or fence paint every few years.

• Keep soil, plants, and debris away from the base to prevent rot.

Yes, many panels are designed for DIY fitting. However, for larger projects or a professional finish, we recommend using Atkinsons’ installation service.

Yes, we offer eco-composite fencing and sustainably sourced timber options for customers looking for greener alternatives.

Choose your garden decking

The two most popular options are:

  • Timber decking – Natural, affordable, and versatile. Can be stained or painted to suit your style.

  • Composite decking – A blend of wood fibres and recycled plastic. Low maintenance, durable, and available in modern finishes.

View our decking range

It depends on your needs:

  • Timber decking – Traditional look, budget-friendly, but requires regular maintenance.

  • Composite decking – More expensive upfront but lasts longer, doesn’t need staining, and is resistant to rot and fading.

In most cases, no. You only need planning permission if:

  • The decking is raised more than 30cm above ground level.

  • It covers more than 50% of your garden.

  • Your property is in a conservation area or listed.
    Check with your local council if you’re unsure.

  • Timber decking – Treat annually with wood preservative or decking oil. Clean regularly to prevent algae build-up.

  • Composite decking – Just sweep and wash with soapy water. No staining or sealing required.

Yes. Many homeowners install decking themselves with basic tools. However, professional installation ensures a secure, long-lasting finish — especially for large or raised decks.

Yes. Decking should be installed on a solid, level base such as concrete pads, a timber frame, or a subframe to provide stability and drainage.

View our range of joists

Sheds and garden buildings

We supply a wide range, including:

  • Garden sheds – Apex, pent, and overlap designs for storage.

  • Workshops – Larger sheds for DIY projects and hobbies.

  • Summerhouses – Stylish spaces for relaxation and entertaining.

  • Garden offices – Insulated buildings perfect for working from home.

  • Pergolas & gazebos – Decorative structures for outdoor living.

     •   Apex shed – Has a traditional pitched roof with a central ridge, offering extra height inside.

  • Pent shed – Features a single-sloping roof, great for placing against a wall or fence, and often more modern in style.

Yes, our timber sheds and garden buildings are pressure-treated to help protect against rot, decay, and insect damage. We always recommend regular treatment to prolong lifespan.

Yes. A solid, level base such as concrete, paving slabs, or a timber frame is essential for stability, drainage, and preventing warping.

Many sheds and buildings are designed for DIY assembly with instructions provided. For larger or bespoke structures, we recommend professional installation.

Yes, Atkinsons provides an installation service on many sheds and garden buildings. This ensures your building is erected securely and quickly.

Most sheds and garden buildings fall under permitted development. You may need permission if:

  • The building covers more than 50% of your garden.

  • It’s higher than 2.5m near a boundary.

  • Your property is listed or in a conservation area.

 

Always check local planning rules if unsure.

We offer a wide range of standard sizes, from small storage sheds (6×4) up to large workshops and garden offices. Bespoke sizes may also be available on request.

Yes. Many people insulate their sheds, workshops, or offices with boards or foil-backed insulation, making them usable year-round.

Ready to talk about your next project?

Our accreditations

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