Fence Panel Calculator

Last updated: June 2026

Total fence length

Panel width

Include gate?

Fence panels

Fence posts

Gate posts

Postcrete bags

16 bags

Shopping list

Item	Quantity
Fence panels	7
Fence posts	8
Post holes to dig	8
Postcrete bags	16

Formula

Effective length = total length minus gate width. Panels = ceiling(effective length / panel width). Posts = panels + 1, plus 2 dedicated gate posts if a gate is included.

About this calculator

Calculate how many fence panels, posts, post holes, and postcrete bags are needed for a straight fence run. It uses standard UK panel planning assumptions and allows for a gate.

Fence panel method

The calculator uses metric dimensions and practical UK planning assumptions. Results are estimates, so check product labels, site conditions, and supplier guidance before ordering materials.

effective length = total fence length - gate width
panels needed = ceiling(effective length / panel width)
posts needed = panels + 1, plus 2 gate posts if included

How to use the fence panel calculator

Choose the project type or measurement mode where the calculator offers one.
Enter all dimensions in metric units.
Add allowances such as coats, waste, pattern repeat, roll width, or bag size where relevant.
Review the main highlighted result first.
Check secondary results such as packs, bags, rolls, posts, or tin combinations.
Round up to supplier pack sizes and confirm the label coverage before buying.

Worked examples

Standard fence run

Input: 12m fence, 1.83m panels, no gate

Calculation: 12 / 1.83 = 6.56.

Result: 7 panels and 8 posts.

Fence with gate

Input: 12m fence, 0.9m gate, 1.83m panels

Calculation: Effective panel length = 11.1m. 11.1 / 1.83 = 6.07.

Result: 7 panels, 8 fence posts, plus 2 gate posts.

UK standard panel sizes

A common UK fence panel width is 1.83m, often described as 6ft. Heights vary. Posts, gravel boards, slopes, and awkward corners can change the final materials list.

Postcrete estimate

The calculator uses two bags of postcrete per post as a simple planning estimate. Soil type, hole size, post size, and exposure can change the amount needed.

Common mistakes

Mixing centimetres, millimetres, and metres without converting first.
Ordering exact quantities with no allowance for cuts, waste, damage, or uneven surfaces.
Forgetting that products are sold in tins, packs, bags, rolls, or boards rather than exact calculated quantities.
Using average deductions or coverage rates when the project has unusual shapes, textures, slopes, or access limits.
Not checking manufacturer instructions before final ordering.

Home improvement estimate disclaimer

This calculator is for general DIY planning only. It is not a substitute for a professional survey, structural design, building control advice, manufacturer instructions, or installer measurement.

Actual product coverage and pack sizes vary by supplier.
Site conditions can change material quantities.
Structural, roofing, electrical, gas, and regulated building work may need qualified advice.

Frequently asked questions

Why are posts panels plus one?

A straight run needs one post at each end and one between each panel, so posts are usually panel count plus one.

Do gates need extra posts?

Yes. A gate normally needs dedicated posts strong enough to carry the gate and latch hardware.

Does this handle corners?

No. Corners and direction changes need manual checking because post positions change.

Should I round fence panels up?

Yes. You normally buy whole panels and cut or adjust the last bay if needed.

Does this include gravel boards?

No. If using gravel boards, usually plan one per panel bay, subject to your fence design.

Related calculators

Decking Calculator
Gravel Calculator
Concrete Calculator

What does this mean?

This calculator is designed to help you understand the likely number before you make a decision or start an application.

Your result should be checked against official UK guidance, especially if your circumstances include dependants, exemptions, prior leave, or a complex immigration history.

Treat the figure as a planning tool rather than legal advice. Where the answer affects an application deadline or major payment, speak to an authorised adviser.