What affects the cost of a new fence
No two fences cost the same. Here’s what makes the price go up or down, so you know what to expect before we come out.
We don’t put a single price per metre on the website, because the same fence can cost quite different amounts in two gardens. These are the things that make the difference. We go through all of them on a free, no obligation site visit.
Length and height
The longer the run, the more posts, rails and boards it needs, so length is the biggest factor. Height matters too: a 1.8m fence uses more timber than a 1.2m one and needs posts set deeper. Bear in mind the 2 metre rule for back gardens and 1 metre next to roads.
The type of fence
Fence panels are usually the quickest and cheapest way to screen a garden. Closeboard is built in place, so it usually costs more upfront but is stronger and easier to repair. We compare the two in closeboard or panels? Post & rail is lighter on materials, while security fencing, acoustic fencing and bespoke joinery are priced job by job.
Posts and gravel boards
Posts are where a fence wins or loses, so they’re worth getting right. Concrete posts don’t rot and suit exposed or damp spots. Timber posts give an all-timber look; ours are treated to highway spec for ground contact (see our timber). Gravel boards along the bottom add a little to the cost but keep the boards off the soil and are cheap to replace.
The old fence and the ground
- Taking down the old fence, digging out old posts and concrete, and taking it all away all add time.
- Slopes mean stepping panels down, or building closeboard to follow the ground.
- Tree roots, buried concrete or hard ground can make post holes slower to dig.
Access
If we can get materials straight to the fence line, the job is quicker. A long carry through a narrow side passage, up steps or through the house takes more time and labour.
Gates and extras
A gate adds its own cost for the gate, the heavier posts it hangs on, and the fittings. Trellis tops, arches and pergolas add to it too.
Ways to keep it down
- If the posts are sound, sometimes only a few panels or boards need replacing. We’ll tell you honestly. See fence repairs.
- Happy to put it up yourself? Buy the materials from our yard at Seal.
- Use our fence planner to work out roughly how many posts and panels you need.
Quick answers
How much does a new fence cost?
It depends mainly on the length and height, the type of fence, the posts, removing the old fence, the ground and access. We give free, no obligation estimates after a site visit. Call 01732 762677.
Is closeboard more expensive than fence panels?
Closeboard usually costs more upfront because it is built in place, but it is stronger and single boards or rails can be replaced.
Does taking away my old fence cost extra?
Taking down an old fence, digging out the old posts and concrete and taking it away adds time, so it is part of the estimate. We will include it if you need it.
Can I buy the materials and put the fence up myself?
Yes. Fence panels, posts, gravel boards and rails are available to collect from our yard at Seal, Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.