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Garden Fencing Guide

Fence Panel Types and Costs

Lap panel (horizontal overlapping boards): £15–35 per panel, the most common and affordable type. Feather edge close board: £40–80 per 1.8m section, more durable and formal. Hit and miss: £50–100 per section, allows air flow, good for windy locations. Slatted (horizontal): £60–150 per section, modern appearance. Trellis tops: add £5–15 per panel to any fence. Concrete posts and gravel boards (concrete base) significantly extend fence life but add 30–40% to material cost.

Fence Posts — Depth and Spacing

A post should be buried to approximately one-third of its total length. For a 1.8m high fence, use 2.4m posts with 600mm in the ground. Spacing: 1.83m between post centres is standard for UK panels. Posts can be set in concrete (post mix), driven with a post driver (for soft ground, preserves post bottom), or set in spike holders (metal spikes driven into ground — easier, but less secure in windy locations). Never use untreated timber posts — they will rot within 2–3 years.

Gravel Boards

Gravel boards sit at the bottom of the fence, between posts, protecting the panel base from ground moisture and rot. Without a gravel board, fence panels are often in contact with soil and rot from the bottom within 3–5 years. A gravel board extends panel life by 5–10 years. They cost £5–15 each for concrete or treated timber versions. Concrete gravel boards last indefinitely; timber should be pressure-treated to at least UC3 standard.

DIY vs Professional Installation

DIY fencing is one of the most achievable garden projects — the main tool requirement is a post hole auger or digger, a level, and basic carpentry tools. The biggest challenge is achieving perfectly plumb posts. Professional fitting costs £40–80 per metre including materials, or £15–25 per metre labour only. For a 20-metre fence, expect professional fitting of £300–500 in labour alone. Getting 3 quotes is advisable — fencing prices vary significantly by region and contractor.