Common Mistakes Putting Up a Fence (UK): Posts, Panels, Gates
Fences fail at the posts. A 10 m run of 1.8 m panel fence with one 0.9 m gate takes 5 panels and 7 posts of 2.4 m. Put your own run into the fence panel calculator.
Mistake 1: miscounting posts
You need a post at each end and between panels, so posts outnumber panels by one, plus gate posts:
| Fence length | Panels | Posts |
|---|---|---|
| 5 m | 3 | 5 |
| 10 m | 5 | 7 |
| 15 m | 8 | 10 |
| 20 m | 11 | 13 |
| 30 m | 16 | 18 |
Mistake 2: forgetting the gate
A gate takes space and a post. For 10 m:
| Gates | Panels | Posts |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 6 | 7 |
| 1 | 5 | 7 |
| 2 | 5 | 8 |
Mistake 3: posts that are too short
Part of the post is in the ground:
| Panel height | Post length |
|---|---|
| 0.9 m | 1.5 m |
| 1.2 m | 1.8 m |
| 1.5 m | 2.1 m |
| 1.8 m | 2.4 m |
Mistake 4: setting posts without a line or level
- Set a string line, and place posts to the panel width, measured from the real panels.
- Dig deep enough, and set each post in concrete: see the concrete calculator for the amount.
- Brace the posts until the concrete sets, and keep panels off the soil with gravel boards.
Mistake 5: ignoring boundaries and rules
Panels are a standard width, so measure the run and see where the last panel falls before you set the first post. A short gap at the end is better closed with a cut panel or a gate than with a flimsy filler. Order the gravel boards, caps and post fixings with the panels so that the job is not held up by a missing part.
Check who owns the boundary, tell your neighbours, and keep to the height limits where planning rules apply. For one list of panels, posts and concrete, use the fence materials calculator. Estimates only.
Frequently asked questions
How many fence panels for 10 m?
With 1.83 m panels and one 0.9 m gate, 5 panels and 7 posts of 2.4 m.
How tall can a garden fence be?
Generally 2 m at the back or side, and 1 m next to a highway, without planning permission, but it varies. Check with your local planning authority first.
How deep should fence posts go?
About a quarter to a third of the post, in a firm footing. A 1.8 m fence uses a 2.4 m post for this reason.
Who owns the fence?
It depends on the deeds, so check them, and talk to your neighbour before you start.
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Estimates only. Quantities depend on your materials, site and supplier. Confirm important numbers before you order, and check the Building Regulations and any planning rules for anything structural or close to a boundary.