If you measure your fence line properly, ordering is simple. You work out the total length of each straight run, choose your panel width, then count panels and posts. Add gravel boards if your panels will sit near soil, and measure gate openings separately.
This guide shows you an easy, reliable way to measure for fence panels, fence posts, gravel boards and garden gates. It is written for UK gardens and typical 6ft (1.83m) panel bays.
What you need before you start
Use a tape measure, a notebook, a pencil, and a few pegs or markers. A long tape makes life easier on bigger gardens. If you can, run a string line along the boundary. It helps you spot bends and keeps measurements honest.
Step 1: measure the fence line in straight sections
Measure where the new fence will sit, not the old fence. Old fences often wander. If your boundary changes direction, split it into straight sections and measure each one separately.
- Straight run: measure end to end, then double check.
- Corner or kink: measure up to the corner, then start a new measurement for the next run.
- Curves: break it into short straight measurements along the line.
Write down each section length and note any obstacles like sheds, trees, or raised beds that may affect where posts can go.
Step 2: choose the panel width you are building around
Most panel fencing is planned around 6ft (1.83m) wide bays. That width sets your post spacing and makes counting easy. If you are mixing widths, plan it on paper first so you do not end up with a thin, awkward gap at the end.
If you are still choosing a style, browse our fence panels range. For a classic look you might choose overlap, while closeboard is a popular upgrade for strength and privacy.
Step 3: work out how many fence panels you need
For each straight section, divide the section length by your chosen panel width.
Panels needed = section length ÷ panel width
Round to a whole number and check it makes sense on the ground. If the maths leaves a small leftover gap, it is usually better to adjust the layout so the odd bay lands somewhere less visible, such as behind a shed, rather than squeezing panels in and forcing posts out of line.
| Fence run length | Panel width | Panels needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11.0m | 1.83m (6ft) | 6 panels | Leaves ~0.02m spare, normally fine |
| 10.2m | 1.83m (6ft) | 5 panels | Plan a narrower end bay or adjust layout |
Step 4: count your fence posts
On a simple straight run, the rule is:
Posts needed = number of panels + 1
Then add extra posts for anything that breaks the run.
- Corners: allow a post for each direction change.
- Gates: allow two posts for the gate opening.
- Steps in height: allow posts where panel heights change.
If you want long life and a solid feel, many customers choose concrete fence posts. Timber posts are also a good choice when you want a fully timber look, especially with matching panels and rails.
Step 5: decide whether you need gravel boards
Gravel boards sit under the panel. They lift timber off wet ground and help protect the bottom edge. They also tidy up small dips in the soil.
For most panel fencing, plan one gravel board per panel bay. On uneven ground you may need to step the boards. If your garden is exposed or you want minimum maintenance at ground level, concrete gravel boards are a practical option.
Step 6: measuring for a garden gate opening
Measure gates separately. Start by choosing the gate size and where it will sit. Then measure the opening you can realistically fit, allowing space for hinges and a clean swing. Gates put extra strain on posts, so treat gate posts as a priority for strength and fixing.
Have a look at our garden gates range, then plan posts and fittings to suit.
Step 7: allow for slopes and steps
If the ground slopes, decide whether you want the fence to follow the slope (raked) or step down in level sections. Most panel fences are stepped. Note where the slope starts and ends, and mark any places where you need the top of the fence to stay consistent for privacy.
A simple tip is to run a string line at your intended top height and step back. You will quickly see whether stepping will look tidy.
Step 8: do not forget fixings, cement and fittings
Once you have panel and post counts, list the extras. Most installs need fixings for panels and rails, plus gate hinges and latches. If you are setting posts, you will also want cement products or postmix. For brackets, bolts, hinges and latches, see our ironmongery range.
Quick measuring checklist
- Measure each straight run where the new fence will sit.
- Choose your panel width, then divide each run to get panel counts.
- Count posts as panels + 1, then add corners and gate posts.
- Plan one gravel board per bay if panels sit near soil.
- Measure gate openings separately and allow for swing clearance.
If you want a simple place to start, browse fence panels first, then match them with the right fence posts, gravel boards and fittings.
