Garden fencing typically costs £30–£90 per linear metre installed, depending on the fence type, height, and ground conditions. Featheredge and closeboard fencing sit at the higher end due to labour time; pre-made panel fencing is the cheapest and quickest option.
Average Fencing Costs Per Metre (Installed)
| Fence Type | Cost Per Metre (installed) | Typical Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Overlap panel | £30–£45 | 8–12 years |
| Featheredge (close board, vertical boards) | £50–£75 | 15–25 years |
| Closeboard (framed, individual boards) | £55–£90 | 20–25 years |
| Trellis topper (added to any fence) | +£10–£20/metre | — |
| Post and rail (agricultural style) | £25–£40 | 10–15 years |
Prices assume a standard 1.8m height on reasonably level, accessible ground. Add £10–£20 per metre for sloping gardens, difficult access, or if old fencing needs removing and disposing of first.
Featheredge vs Panel vs Closeboard: What's the Difference?
Overlap panels are pre-made sections you buy ready to install — quick and cheap, but generally the least durable option. Panels are more prone to storm damage since wind can catch the whole section at once.
Featheredge fencing uses individual tapered boards overlapped vertically and nailed to horizontal rails, built in place rather than bought pre-made. It's more labour-intensive (hence the higher cost) but far more durable and repairable — if one board is damaged, it can be replaced individually rather than replacing a whole panel.
Closeboard fencing is similar to featheredge but uses a full timber frame with gravel boards at the base, making it the sturdiest and longest-lasting option — often the choice for boundary fences shared with a neighbour, or gardens exposed to strong winds.
What Affects the Price?
Height. Fencing above 1.8m sometimes requires planning permission (especially near a public road), and taller fences use more material and take longer to install.
Post type. Concrete posts cost more upfront than timber but last far longer and won't rot at ground level — usually worth the extra cost over the fence's lifetime.
Ground conditions. Rocky or clay soil, or existing concrete/hardcore underground, can significantly slow down post installation and add labour cost.
Removal of old fencing. If your old fence needs taking down and disposing of first, this is usually charged separately — always ask if it's included in the quote.
How Long Does Fence Installation Take?
A standard garden boundary (10–15 metres) typically takes 1–2 days for panel fencing, or 2–4 days for featheredge or closeboard fencing due to the additional build time per section.
Getting an Accurate Quote
A proper fencing quote should specify:
- Fence type, height, and post type (timber or concrete)
- Whether old fence removal and disposal is included
- Number of linear metres being fenced
- Whether a trellis topper or gate is included if requested
Compare Fencing Contractor Quotes
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