Calculate how many fence panels, posts and gravel boards you need for your fence line.
Enter the total length of your fence line, the panel width, and the post width. The tool returns how many panels, posts and gravel boards (called “kickboards” in the US) you need. Remember you always need one more post than panels — a 10-panel run needs 11 posts to close both ends.
| Region | Width |
|---|---|
| UK standard | 1.83 m (6 ft) |
| US stockade/privacy | 8 ft (2.44 m) |
| Post width (timber/concrete) | 4 in / 100 mm |
A 30 m run with 1.83 m panels and 100 mm posts: each bay uses 1.83 + 0.10 = 1.93 m, so 30 ÷ 1.93 ≈ 16 panels and 17 posts. Add a gravel board under each panel to keep the timber (lumber) off wet ground.
Tip: set posts in concrete or a fast-setting “postcrete” mix, allowing about a quarter to a third of the post length below ground for stability in exposed spots.
Divide the fence length by the panel width plus one post width (the bay width), then round up. This calculator does it automatically and adds the extra end post.
In the UK, standard fence panels are 1.83 m (6 ft) wide and come in heights from 0.9 m to 1.83 m. Posts are typically 100 mm (4 in) square.
You need 6 posts for 5 panels – one between each panel plus one at each end.
In the UK a fence up to 2 m generally needs no planning permission, dropping to 1 m where it borders a road or footpath used by vehicles. Always check local rules and any covenants.
Gravel boards are recommended — they keep the panel off the wet ground and are cheaper to replace than a whole panel if they rot.
