Fencing is a great way to give yourself some privacy in your garden, and it also serves as an indicator of your property’s boundary. And while it might not be the most exciting thing to spend money on, a new fence can improve the look of your garden and add kerb appeal if it can be seen from the road.
But how much does a new garden fence cost, and what are your options? We go through everything in this guide.
How much should you expect to pay for fencing?
Fencing costs in the UK can vary depending on the material, size and style of the fence, as well as labour charges. On average, you can expect to pay between £30 and £70 per foot for fence panels or boards, excluding installation costs. Fencer rates for installation typically range from £100 to £300 per day, depending on your location and the complexity of the job.
Here’s a breakdown of common fencing costs:
|
Fence Type |
Average Cost (excluding installation) |
|
Wooden fencing |
£50 per metre |
|
Lap panel |
£40 per panel |
|
Closeboard |
£50 per panel |
|
Picket |
£60 per panel |
|
Metal/Aluminium |
£72 per panel |
|
Composite |
£150 per panel |
|
Concrete posts |
£25 each |
|
Timber posts |
£18 each |
|
Fencer hourly rate |
£28 |
|
Fencer day rate |
£204 |
Factors affecting the cost of fencing
Several factors can influence the overall cost of your fencing project:
- Material: Premium materials like composite or wrought iron cost significantly more than basic timber options, but they may last longer as they are more durable
- Height and length: Taller fences and longer perimeters increase material and labour costs, though you may see a reduction in cost per metre if you are having a lot of fence panels installed
- Ground conditions: Uneven or rocky terrain can make installation more complex, increasing the time the fencer takes to fit your fencing and therefore increasing labour costs
- Extras: Gates, decorative panels and finishes, like staining or painting, will cost more.
- Removal of old fencing: Disposing of old fencing can cost an additional £100–£200, as your fencer will have to pay to dispose of it.
- Location: Labour charges are often higher in urban areas, particularly in London and in the South East. Prices are usually lowest in Scotland, the North West and Wales.
At HaMuch, we use our database of hourly and daily rates from fencers across the UK to estimate how much your fencing project will cost. Take a look at our fencing cost table and find your nearest town or city to get a more accurate idea of how much fencing costs in your area.
What is the cheapest fence to have installed?
Lap panel fencing tends to be the cheapest fencing option, costing around £40 per panel. Pair it with timber posts and gravel boards at around £20 each and a 10-metre length of fencing will come in at around £1,000. However, lap panel fencing isn’t as durable as other types.
Picket fencing can also be cost-effective for low-height boundaries as you don’t need extra posts, but it won’t offer you any privacy. This could cost as little as £650 for 10 metres.
Remember, cheapest doesn’t often equal best. Choosing a cheaper product may leave you having to spend more on maintenance or replacing sooner, which will become more expensive in the long term. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of each fence type and choose the best you can afford.
Types of fencing
There are many types of fencing to choose from, and some suit some areas better than others. Here are some of the most common types of fencing and their benefits:
Lap panel
Lap panel fencing is one of the most affordable and widely used types of fencing in the UK. It consists of horizontal wooden slats that overlap each other within a sturdy frame. These panels are typically pre-assembled, making installation straightforward and budget-friendly.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Ideal for homeowners looking for an affordable fencing option
- Easy installation: Pre-assembled panels reduce labour time and complexity
- Customisable: Can be painted or stained to match your garden aesthetic
Cons:
- Less durable: Susceptible to damage from strong winds and heavy rainfall
- Limited lifespan: Wood can rot or warp over time without regular maintenance
- Lower privacy: Gaps can develop as the wood ages and warps
Closeboard
Closeboard fencing, also known as featherboard fencing, is a robust option designed for longevity and privacy. It is constructed using vertical overlapping wooden boards nailed to horizontal rails and sturdy posts, creating a solid barrier. This type of fencing is popular in gardens where privacy and durability are essential.
Pros:
- Durable: Withstands harsh weather conditions better than lap panel fencing
- Better privacy: Its solid construction prevents visibility through gaps
- Customisable: Can be treated, stained or painted to suit your garden
Cons:
- Higher cost: More expensive than lap panel fencing due to its sturdy construction
- Time-consuming installation: Requires more skill and effort to install correctly
- Maintenance required: Regular treatment is needed to prevent rot and extend its lifespan
Picket
Picket fencing is a decorative option often associated with traditional or cottage-style gardens. Made of evenly spaced vertical wooden slats attached to horizontal rails, it is typically used in front gardens to create a welcoming and charming boundary.
Pros:
- Attractive design: Adds character and kerb appeal to your property
- Defines boundaries: Perfect for marking property lines without obstructing the view
- Customisable: Available in various heights and finishes to match your style
Cons:
- Limited privacy: Not suitable for those seeking a high degree of seclusion
- Lower durability: Requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting or weather damage
- Low height: Typically shorter, making it less suitable for back gardens
Metal
Metal fencing, which can include wrought iron, steel or aluminium, is a durable and secure option that works well in both residential and commercial settings. It is often used for its strength and low maintenance, making it a popular choice for long-term use.
Pros:
- High durability: Resistant to weathering, pests and rot
- Low maintenance: Requires little upkeep compared to wooden fences
- Secure: Difficult to break or climb, making it ideal for security purposes
Cons:
- Expensive: Higher upfront costs than wood or composite fencing
- Less privacy: Open designs like wrought iron provide minimal privacy
- Prone to rust: Although modern treatments can reduce it, rust can develop if not maintained
Composite
Composite fencing is made from a blend of wood fibres and plastic, offering the appearance of wood with the durability of synthetic materials. It’s a modern choice for those looking for a low-maintenance option.
Pros:
- Long-lasting: Highly resistant to rot, pests and weather damage.
- Low maintenance: Requires no painting, staining, or frequent repairs
- Eco-friendly: Often made from recycled materials, making it a sustainable option
- Aesthetic appeal: Mimics the natural look of wood while offering modern colour options
Cons:
- High initial cost: More expensive upfront than wooden fencing
- Limited customisation: Can’t be painted or stained like wood - the colour you choose is what you are left with
- Weight: Heavier than traditional fencing materials, which can make installation more challenging
Once you’ve decided what type of fence you want, it can help you to get accurate quotes if you estimate roughly how much fencing you need.
How to estimate how much fencing you need
It’s easy to estimate how much fencing you need:
- Measure your boundary: Use a tape measure to calculate the perimeter where the fence will be installed. If you don’t know the width or height of fencing panels you want yet, this measurement should be enough to give to a fencer to allow them to give you a quote.
- Account for posts: You’ll need one fence post per panel, plus one extra for the end. Posts vary between 70mm-200mm in width, so consider the size you want. Then, deduct the total width of all the posts from your perimeter measurement.
- Calculate the number of panels: Divide the total fence perimeter by the width of the panels you want.
Don’t worry if you can’t get an accurate measurement for your fencing. A good fencer should visit your home to measure up before they give you a quote.
Your fence and your neighbours
How to tell which fence is yours
You may be able to find out which fence you are responsible for in your property deeds. Look for a ‘T’ mark on the boundary line:
- If the ‘T’ points into your property, it’s your responsibility.
- If a ‘T’ points into both properties, both neighbours are responsible.
It’s a common myth that the fence that you’re responsible for is the one on the left side of your garden as you face it. This has been passed down over the years because it’s very rare to have boundary responsibilities noted on your property deeds.
Unfortunately, this does mean that a lot of disputes occur between neighbours over fences. It’s always best to discuss your plans for new fencing with your neighbours before you go ahead.
Do you have to pay for half a neighbour’s fence?
Another commonly shared myth is that you have to pay for half of your neighbour’s fence. Unless your property deeds show that both you and the neighbour are responsible for the fence, you’re not legally obliged to pay for half of your neighbour’s fence.
However, many neighbours decide to share the cost of a fence to help avoid disputes and ensure each party gets a fence they’re happy with.
Do you need planning permission for a new fence?
There are some planning rules you need to follow with fencing:
- Height restrictions: Planning permission is required for fences taller than 2 metres. If you live next to a highway, you usually need planning permission for a fence that's over 1 metre high to ensure visibility for drivers and pedestrians
- Listed buildings: You usually need planning permission if your property is a listed building or in the curtilage of a listed building
- Conservation areas: If you live in a conservation area, your local authority may have restrictions on the materials, design and colours you can use for your fence
If you’re unsure about whether you need planning permission for your fence, it’s best to contact your local authority before you start the work to prevent any fines or orders to remove your fence.
What is cheaper - a fence or a wall?
In general, fencing is cheaper than building a wall. A basic brick wall costs around £150–£200 per metre, which is much more than most wooden fencing options that sit at around £50 per metre, or £70 with installation.
However, walls are more durable and require less maintenance in the long term. So if you plan to be in your home for many years, it may make sense to build a wall that will last longer and need less upkeep.
What time of year is fencing cheapest?
Fencing can often be cheaper in the winter months, usually November to February. This is because demand is lower, so fencers may run discounts to try to attract business.
However, you’re more likely to face delays to your project in the winter, as weather conditions can affect installation.
Can I install a fence myself?
If you’re confident in your DIY skills, you can save on labour costs by installing a fence yourself. However, it’s a good idea to enlist a friend to help you if you’re going to have a go. Here are a few things you should consider before starting your fencing project:
- Prepare properly: Ensure the ground is even and that the land is free from obstructions
- Use high-quality materials: Choose a good-quality fence panels and consider using concrete posts and gravel boards
- Have the right tools: You’ll need a post-hole digger, spirit level and saw as the bare minimum
- Follow local regulations: Check boundary, planning and height restrictions before you start
If you want to install more complex wooden fencing or composite or metal fencing, we’d always recommend hiring a professional fencing contractor as there is more that can go wrong during installation.
Ready to refresh your garden with a new fence? Post your job on HaMuch now to get in touch with reliable fencers in your area.