Fence Calculator

Work out exactly how many panels, posts, gravel boards and post mix bags you need — and get a 2026 material cost estimate.

Calculate Fencing Materials

Enter your fence run length and style to get your full materials list and cost estimate.

Measure the total run of fencing required

Your Fencing Materials

Panels Needed
panels
Posts Needed
concrete posts
Gravel Boards
boards
Post Mix Bags
× 20kg bags
Est. Total Cost
materials only

Get Your Free Home Improvement Checklist

We'll send you a printable pre-project checklist covering fencing, groundwork and brickwork — so nothing gets missed.

Where to Buy Fencing Materials

Compare prices at the UK's leading retailers before ordering panels, posts and post mix.

RetailerWhat to BuyWhy We Recommend
B&Q Closeboard & overlap panels, concrete posts, gravel boards Widest panel selection in the UK, click & collect nationwide
Wickes Featheredge panels, timber posts, fence paint & treatment Trade-grade quality, good bulk pricing for larger fence runs
Amazon UK Post mix (Postcrete), fence screws & clips, fence paint Best prices on consumables and accessories, fast Prime delivery

UK Fence Panel Costs Reference (2026)

Fence panel prices vary by type and height. Use this table as a quick reference when planning your project.

Panel Type 0.9m (3ft) 1.2m (4ft) 1.5m (5ft) 1.8m (6ft)
Closeboard£22£25£28£32
Overlap£16£18£20£24
Featheredge£28£30£33£38
Concrete Post£6£7£8.50£10
Gravel Board£5.50 each (standard 1.83m length)
Post Mix (Postcrete)£5 per 20kg bag (2 bags per post)

Note: Prices are approximate 2026 trade/retail averages. Costs vary by region, supplier, and panel quality. Always get at least 3 quotes before purchasing in bulk.

How to Use This Fence Calculator

Step 1: Measure Your Fence Run

Measure the total length of fencing you need in metres. If you have multiple fence runs (e.g. two sides of a garden), add them together. Remember to account for any gates — subtract the gate width from your total fence length.

Step 2: Choose Your Fence Height

The most common fence height in the UK is 1.8m (6ft) for rear garden boundaries. Front garden fences are typically 0.9m–1.2m. Remember that fences over 2m require planning permission, and fences next to a highway must be under 1m without permission.

Step 3: Select Your Panel Type

Closeboard panels are the most popular for garden boundaries — strong, durable, and good value. Overlap panels are the cheapest option and suit sheltered gardens. Featheredge panels are premium and offer the best wind resistance as each board is individually nailed to the rails.

Step 4: Review Your Results

The calculator gives you the exact number of panels, posts, gravel boards and post mix bags needed. Gravel boards sit between the ground and the panel to prevent timber rot — they are strongly recommended. Post mix (postcrete) sets posts firmly in 5–10 minutes without mixing concrete.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many fence panels do I need per metre?
Standard UK fence panels are 1.83m (6ft) wide. You need approximately 1 panel every 1.83 metres. For example, a 10-metre fence run requires 6 panels (10 ÷ 1.83 = 5.46, rounded up to 6). You will also need one more post than panels — so 6 panels means 7 posts.
Do I need concrete posts or wooden posts?
Concrete posts are the most popular choice in the UK for panel fencing because they last 20+ years and do not rot. Wooden posts are cheaper initially but typically need replacing after 10–15 years. This calculator uses concrete post prices as the default. If you prefer timber posts, expect to pay around 30–40% less per post.
How deep should fence posts be?
Fence posts should be set a minimum of 600mm (2ft) into the ground for a 1.8m (6ft) fence. For exposed or windy locations, increase this to 750mm. The total post length should be the fence height plus the buried depth. Posts should be set in post mix (postcrete) or concrete for stability.
Do I need planning permission for a fence in the UK?
In most cases, you do not need planning permission for a fence up to 2 metres high. However, if your fence is next to a highway, the maximum height without permission is 1 metre. Listed buildings, conservation areas and new-build estates may have additional restrictions. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt.
What is the best type of fence panel?
Closeboard (also called featherboard) panels are the strongest and most durable option, ideal for exposed gardens. Overlap panels are the most affordable and suit sheltered locations. Featheredge panels offer a premium look with individually nailed boards for maximum wind resistance. For most UK gardens, closeboard panels offer the best balance of durability and value.
How long does a fence last in the UK?
A well-installed fence with concrete posts and quality panels typically lasts 15–20 years. Overlap panels may need replacing after 8–12 years, while closeboard and featheredge panels can last 15–20 years with annual treatment. Concrete posts and gravel boards can last 25+ years. Using gravel boards to keep timber panels off the ground significantly extends panel life.