Fencing Installation Guide
How to Measure for New Fencing
Accurate measurements will help you order the right number of fence panels, posts, gravel boards and fixings. This guide explains how to measure a boundary and plan a standard panel-fencing installation.
In this guide
What You Will Need
- Tape measure
- Stakes or marker pegs
- String line
- Notepad or phone
- A second person for longer boundaries
- Details of gates, corners and changes in ground level
Identify the Fence Line
Confirm where the new fence will run before taking any measurements. Place marker pegs at the beginning and end of each straight section, then run a string line between them. This gives you a clear reference and helps identify corners, changes in direction, sloping ground, gates and nearby obstacles.
Measure the Total Length
Measure along the planned fence line in metres. For boundaries with corners or changes in direction, measure each straight section separately and record the figures before adding them together. Do not measure diagonally across corners; follow the exact route where the fence will be installed.
Record Any Gates
Measure the full width of each gate opening and subtract it from the total fence length.
Remember that the space required may include:
- The gate itself
- Gate posts
- Hinges and latches
- Clearance for the gate to open
- A small fitting allowance
When replacing an existing gate, measure the complete opening between the supporting posts rather than measuring only the gate leaf.
Choose the Panel Width
Most traditional fence panels are approximately 1.83 metres, or 6 feet, wide, although the exact dimensions can vary between products.
Divide the available fence length by the width of the chosen panel to estimate how many panel spaces are required.
For example:
10 metres ÷ 1.83 metres = 5.46 panel spaces
This would normally require six panel spaces, with the final panel cut down to fit unless the layout can be adjusted.
Always check the actual product dimensions before placing your order.
Calculate the Number of Posts
For a straight run of fencing, you will normally need one more post than the number of panel spaces.
For example:
- 6 panels require 7 posts
- 10 panels require 11 posts
Additional posts may be required for:
- Corners
- Gates
- Changes in direction
- Separate sections of fencing
- Ends that meet a wall or building
Gate posts may also need to be larger or stronger than standard intermediate posts.
Allow for Gravel Boards
Gravel boards sit underneath fence panels and help prevent the timber from coming into direct contact with soil and moisture.
You will normally need:
- One gravel board for each fence panel
- The correct clips, brackets or cleats for the chosen post system
- A board that matches the width of the panel
Gravel boards are available in timber and concrete. Make sure the selected board is compatible with your fence panels and posts.
Check the Required Fence Height
Decide the finished height before choosing your posts.
The total height may include:
- Fence panel
- Gravel board
- Trellis or decorative top
- Clearance above ground level
The post must also extend far enough into the ground to provide proper support. The required post length will depend on the finished fence height, ground conditions and installation method.
Allow for Sloping Ground
If the ground slopes, decide whether the fence will:
- Follow the slope
- Step down in level sections
- Use panels or boards that can be cut to suit
Standard framed fence panels are usually installed in stepped sections. Closeboard fencing can often follow a slope more closely.
Measure each level change carefully and take photographs if you need advice before ordering.
Common Measuring Mistakes
Avoid these common problems:
- Measuring only the panels and forgetting the posts
- Failing to allow for gate posts
- Assuming every panel is exactly 1.83 metres wide
- Ignoring corners and changes in direction
- Measuring diagonally across a corner
- Ordering posts before deciding whether gravel boards will be used
- Forgetting that end, corner and gate posts may be different
- Measuring across a slope instead of following the fence line
Final Check Before Ordering
Before placing your order, review your measurements and confirm:
- Total fence length
- Number and width of gates
- Number of panel spaces
- Number and type of posts
- Number and type of gravel boards
- Finished fence height
- Corners, slopes and changes in direction
- Required fixings and post mix
It is also sensible to allow for a small amount of cutting and to order enough fixings and post mix to avoid delays during installation.
Need Help Checking Your Measurements?
Bring your measurements, photographs and a simple sketch into our Harlow store. Our team can help you calculate the fence panels, posts, gravel boards, post mix and fixings required for your project.
Before You Start
- Confirm the correct boundary line
- Note all gates and corners
- Check ground levels
- Photograph awkward areas
- Measure each straight run separately
Need Help with Your Measurements?
Bring your measurements, photographs and a simple sketch into our Harlow store. Our team can help calculate the panels, posts, gravel boards and fixings required.