Fence panel calculator
Work out how many fence panels and posts you need for a fence run, from its total length and your chosen panel width.
Result
Fence panels needed
Posts needed
How to use this calculator
- Measure the total length of the fence run.
- Enter the panel width — standard UK panels are usually 1.8m or 1.83m (6ft).
- Read the number of panels and posts to order.
Assumptions
- Assumes a straight fence run with no gates or corners, which each need an extra post.
- Panel width defaults to 1.83m (6ft), a common standard size — always confirm your chosen product's exact width.
Technical details: what the fields mean
- Fence length
fenceLength - Total length of the fence run to be covered.
- Panel width
panelWidth - Width of a single fence panel — check the specific product, as this varies slightly by manufacturer.
Methodology
Panels required = ceil(fence length ÷ panel width). Posts required = panels + 1, since each panel shares a post with its neighbour.
Worked example
12m fence run, 1.83m panels
Inputs: fenceLength=12, panelWidth=1.83
Result: 7 panels, 8 posts
Practical guidance
- Add an extra post for every gate opening or corner in the run — this calculator assumes a single straight line.
- Concrete posts in to a third of their length below ground for a stable fence, especially in exposed or windy locations.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting that a corner or gate needs an additional post beyond the straight-run total.
- Rounding down the panel count instead of up, leaving a gap at the end of the run.
FAQs
How many fence panels do I need for 12m?
With standard 1.83m panels, 7 panels and 8 posts.
How many posts do I need for a fence?
One more than the number of panels, since each panel shares a post with its neighbour — plus extras for corners or gates.