Fencing Material Calculator
Instantly estimate the number of posts, panels, gravel boards, and concrete bags needed for your garden fencing project.
Calculate Your Fence Materials
Enter your total fence length and preferences below to instantly see a complete breakdown of the materials required for a sturdy, long-lasting garden fence.
Fencing Material Estimator
Get an instant breakdown of posts, panels, and concrete.
Understanding Fencing
Key concepts for a sturdy, long-lasting build
Post Spacing
Posts should be spaced to match the exact width of your panels (e.g., 1.83m for a 6ft panel). The posts are set into the ground, and panels slot between them.
Concrete Requirements
A standard 6x6ft post hole should be about 600mm (2ft) deep and 300mm (1ft) wide. One 25kg bag of rapid-set post concrete is typically sufficient per post.
Gravel Boards
Installing concrete or wooden gravel boards at the base elevates the main fence panels off the damp soil, preventing rot and extending the fence’s lifespan by years.
Gate Considerations
Gates require heavier, reinforced posts (often 4×4 inches or larger) and additional concrete to handle the swinging weight and prevent sagging over time.
Standard Fencing Specifications
Common dimensions and material requirements for standard garden fencing projects.
| Component | Standard Size | Post Hole Depth | Concrete per Post |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panel & Post | 1.83m (W) x 1.83m (H) | 600mm (2ft) | 1 x 25kg bag |
| Panel & Post | 1.52m (W) x 1.52m (H) | 600mm (2ft) | 1 x 25kg bag |
| Panel & Post | 1.22m (W) x 1.22m (H) | 450mm (1.5ft) | 0.5 – 1 x 25kg bag |
| Gate Post | Varies (Heavier duty) | 750mm (2.5ft) | 1.5 – 2 x 25kg bags |
| Gravel Board | 1.83m (W) x 150mm (H) | N/A (Sits on ground) | N/A |
Fencing FAQ
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about garden fencing, material estimation, and installation best practices.
Fence posts are typically spaced to match the width of the fence panels. For standard 6-foot (1.83m) panels, posts should be spaced approximately 1.83 meters apart (center to center). For 5-foot (1.52m) panels, space them 1.52 meters apart.
For a standard fence post set in a hole approximately 600mm (2 feet) deep and 300mm (1 foot) wide, one 25kg bag of rapid-set post concrete is generally sufficient. Larger gate posts or softer ground may require 1.5 to 2 bags.
While not strictly mandatory, gravel boards are highly recommended. They elevate the wooden fence panels off the damp ground, preventing rot, deterring pests, and significantly extending the lifespan of your fence.
Measure the total linear length of the area to be fenced. Divide this total length by the width of the fence panels you intend to use (e.g., 1.83m). Always round up to the nearest whole number to ensure full coverage, and add extra for gates.
Concrete provides the most rigid and secure hold, making it ideal for most garden fences, especially in windy areas or clay soil. Gravel (or crushed stone) is a good alternative for sandy soils as it allows for better drainage, reducing the risk of post rot, but requires more compaction effort.