The single biggest question homeowners ask before replacing a fence is "how much should this cost per metre?". The honest answer is that it depends on the panel type, the height, the posts and your access — but the ranges below reflect typical 2026 UK prices for a supplied-and-installed fence.
Average fencing cost per metre (2026)
| Fence type | Cost per metre (installed) |
|---|---|
| Lap / overlap panel (timber) | £90 – £120 |
| Feather edge / closeboard (timber) | £110 – £150 |
| Slatted / contemporary (timber) | £120 – £180 |
| Composite fencing | £120 – £200 |
| Picket fencing | £70 – £110 |
As a rule of thumb, budget around £100–£130 per metre for a standard 1.8m closeboard fence with concrete posts and a gravel board. Use our fence cost calculator for a tailored ballpark.
What affects the cost of fencing?
- Length and height — taller panels (1.8m vs 1.2m) use more material and labour.
- Panel type — closeboard and slatted cost more than budget lap panels.
- Posts — concrete posts and gravel boards cost more upfront than timber but last far longer.
- Removal of the old fence — disposal of the old fence and posts (especially concrete-set posts) adds labour.
- Ground and access — sloping gardens, rubble, tree roots or restricted rear access all push the price up.
Labour vs materials
On a typical job, materials make up roughly 50–60% of the cost and labour the rest. A two-person team will usually install 15–20 metres of fencing in a day. Removing and disposing of an old fence can add half a day to a day depending on how the original posts were set.
How to get an accurate price
Online averages only get you so far. The best way to know your real price is to compare two or three quotes from local installers who have seen the job. Get free quotes and we'll match you with vetted fencers covering your postcode.