Fence panels, posts and postcrete calculator
Estimate panels, posts and an initial postcrete allowance for one straight run, with gates, corners and system-specific details kept separate.
20 LAUNCH TOOLS
Choose a calculator
When to use it
Use for an initial schedule for one straight, uninterrupted, gate-free run after checking the boundary, permissions, services and the chosen fencing system. Measure other runs separately.
How it works
Panels = run ÷ panel width, rounded up to a whole panel; the visible allowance is then applied and rounded up. For this single straight run, posts and the initial postcrete-bag allowance each equal the final panel count plus one.
Worked example
Assume one straight 8.4 m run with no gate or corner, 1.2 m stock panels and 0% allowance. 8.4 ÷ 1.2 = exactly 7 panels, so the calculator returns 7 panels, 8 post positions and an initial 8-bag postcrete allowance. Check the actual post and panel dimensions, end arrangement, foundation detail and product yield before ordering.
Measurement guidance
Clear fence run in metres after excluding gate openings, the actual panel width in metres and a separate panel allowance percentage.
Buying and specification checks
The last stock panel may need cutting. The post count shares intermediate positions within one straight run only. Corners, ends shared with another run, gates, level changes, special posts, gravel boards, fixings and supports are outside the calculation. One postcrete bag per post is only a starting allowance: use the chosen product yield, hole sizes and system requirements.
Set out each run and check the system
A straight-run count needs a boundary, opening and post-position schedule before it becomes an order.
- Confirm where the fence is intended to go before measuring or removing anything. In England and Wales most title plans show general rather than exact boundaries, so check the register, deeds and other records, speak to the neighbour where appropriate, and obtain suitable legal or surveying advice if the line or responsibility is disputed.
- Record every straight run separately with fixed start and end points. Mark corners, gate openings, level changes and joins to existing work; subtract clear gate openings from panel runs, then combine schedules carefully so a shared corner or end post is not automatically counted twice.
- Check the permissions that apply to the site. Planning Portal's England guidance includes height conditions of no more than 1 m next to a highway used by vehicles or its footpath, and no more than 2 m elsewhere, with listed-building, Article 4 and planning-condition exceptions. Other UK nations and local constraints differ, so verify the current position before work.
- Check service records and locate underground services before driving stakes or excavating post holes. Use the selected manufacturer's system details for actual panel and post dimensions, wind exposure, special posts, foundations, fixings, gravel boards and gates; there is no universal post depth or bag yield suitable for every site.
Common mistakes
- Measuring through a gate opening or combining runs across a corner
- Counting a shared corner or end position twice when combining separate schedules
- Treating title-plan lines, a universal post depth or one bag per post as a confirmed specification
FREE TOOL AND PROJECT PACK
What the free calculator provides
The free calculator counts whole panels, post positions and an initial postcrete allowance for one straight uninterrupted run from the measurements and assumptions you enter. It does not settle the boundary, plan gates or corners, select the system or specify foundations.
What the dedicated pack adds
The Fencing Project Pack helps plan and retain the wider domestic fencing project before ordering and through completion.
- Boundary, permissions, site, services, exposure, access and measured-layout checks.
- System selection, component schedule, quote comparison, ordering and delivery controls.
- Set-out, post, panel, gate, snagging, care and retained fence-passport records.
19-page printable digital workbook (PDF). Immediate digital delivery with 90-day access; no subscription.
Practical FAQs
How should I count corners, ends and separate runs?
Calculate each straight uninterrupted run separately. Then make a position schedule for terminal, intermediate and corner posts and remove any duplicated shared position only when the chosen system genuinely shares it.
How do gates affect the panel and post count?
Exclude the clear gate opening from the panel run and schedule the gate, gate posts, clearances, ironmongery and supports separately to the selected system and manufacturer's details.
Does the postcrete result tell me how many bags to buy?
It is only a one-bag-per-post starting allowance. Actual quantity depends on the product yield, hole size, ground, post and manufacturer's or installer's method, so calculate it from those confirmed inputs.
Does the calculator confirm the boundary or whether planning permission is needed?
No. It only counts components from dimensions you enter. Check property records and the current rules and constraints for the location; get suitable advice if the exact boundary, ownership or permission is uncertain.
Planning guidance, not a quotation or a substitute for project-specific design and competent advice.