How to Build a Fence: The Ultimate Guide for Your DIY Garden Project

A well-built fence is more than just a boundary — it’s a crucial part of your outdoor space. Whether you're seeking privacy from neighbours, increased home security, or a stylish border for your landscaping, garden fencing is one of the most effective garden improvement projects you can undertake.

Compared to a brick wall, wooden fence panels are cost-effective, attractive, and easier to install, making them perfect for anyone taking on a DIY garden task. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to build a fence from scratch, incorporating expert advice, safety precautions, and useful tips along the way.

Why Build a Wooden Fence?

Wooden fencing is the most popular choice for UK gardens, and for good reason. It’s versatile, easy to work with, and, with proper treatment, can last many years. Best of all, it can be tailored to suit any garden style — from rustic to contemporary.

Most DIY garden fence projects are straightforward when the boundary line is clear and the ground is relatively level. However, if you're working with uneven terrain or establishing a new boundary, the process can be more involved. In either case, with the right approach, tools, and materials, even novice DIYers can get the job done.

Plan and Prepare: What to Do Before You Start

Safety First

Before you grab your fencing tools, take time to plan safely:

• Scan for underground cables and pipes using a cable avoidance tool (CAT). Many electrical installations will include a warning marker or tape near hidden cables.

• If you find cables and your fence is going over concrete, use fence post supports designed to bolt to the surface. These supports eliminate the need for digging while securing your posts in place.

• If there are cables beneath soft ground, consider adjusting your fencing layout to avoid the risk.

• Always wear protective gear like rigger gloves, a dust mask, and safety goggles — especially when mixing concrete or using power tools.

Timing Your Project

While you can install a fence at any time of year, the best seasons are early spring or late autumn. These milder conditions make it easier to dig and less disruptive to your plants. Plus, spring allows time for any displaced greenery to recover in time for summer.

Materials & Fencing Tools Checklist

Having the right fencing tools and materials on hand makes the job smoother and safer:

Tools You'll Need:

• Tape measure

• Digging spade or auger

• Club hammer & sledgehammer

• Spirit level

• Builders line (x2)

• Power drill with twist bits

• Panel saw

• Claw hammer

• Fence post rammer (for spike supports)

• Trowel

• Cartridge gun for silicone sealant

• Workbench

• Bucket (for soaking post caps)

• Bamboo canes (for marking holes)

Materials Checklist:

• Fence panels

• Wooden fence posts

• Fence post caps

• Fence post supports (if not setting posts in concrete)

• Timber (for temporary props)

• Bricks (to support panels during fitting)

• Fence clips

• Gravel boards and gravel board clips

• Galvanised clout nails or decking screws

• Pre-mixed concrete

• Silicone sealant

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Fence

Step 1: Mark and Dig Your Post Holes

• Clear the area of rocks, weeds, and plants. Pot up any shrubs you want to save for replanting.

• Stretch a long tape measure along the intended fence line and use bamboo canes to mark the centre of each post hole.

  • Tip: For standard 1.83m wide fence panels and 100mm wide posts, place your canes 1.93m apart (centre to centre).

• Dig holes using a spade or auger to about 450mm deep (or deeper for soft ground).

• Build temporary timber props to support your first post. Drive them into the ground and screw them to the post so it remains upright.

• Set the final post using the same method, then run builders line between both to guide alignment and height.

Tip: Installing a fence on flat ground with clear boundaries is simpler than doing so on uneven or undefined land. Plan accordingly to save time and avoid missteps.

Step 2: Adjust Fence Panels if Needed

Not every fence run divides neatly into full panels. Here’s how to trim one to size:

• Remove the vertical battens (struts) on one side.

• Reposition the end and centre battens to suit the required width.

• Use a panel saw to cut the panel flush with the new frame positioning.

• A workbench will help secure the panel while you work.

Step 3: Install Fence Panels and Posts

Fence panels and posts should be installed alternately to ensure accuracy:

• Use bricks to temporarily raise each fence panel 50–75mm off the ground — this prevents water damage from ground moisture.

• If using fence clips, attach them to the posts first, then slide the panel into place and fix it with screws or nails.

  • Fence clips allow for easier panel removal later, making maintenance more manageable.

• Drill pilot holes in the panel battens to avoid splitting before fixing them to posts with galvanised nails.

• Use a spirit level often to make sure panels remain level and in line with the posts.

Step 4: Fit Gravel Boards (Optional but Recommended)

Gravel boards are an important part of extending the life of your fencing:

• Leave a 150mm gap below the fence panels and measure the span between posts.

• Cut gravel boards to size and fix them using either galvanised screws or gravel board clips.

• This helps protect panels from moisture, mud, and splashes — a simple but smart garden improvement.

Step 5: Concrete the Fence Posts

Once the fence panels are fixed:

• Check each post is aligned with your top and bottom builders line.

• Use a spirit level to make sure posts are vertical.

• Mix and pour concrete into the holes until it’s just above ground level.

• Use a trowel to shape the surface, angling it away from the post to let rainwater drain off.

Pro Tip: Wash your hands thoroughly after using cement, as wet concrete can cause skin irritation or burns. Also, don’t let cement dry on your fencing tools — scrub it off with a stiff brush right after use.

Step 6: Fit Post Caps

Post caps aren’t just decorative — they help prevent rot:

• Soak them in water before fitting to reduce the risk of wood splitting.

• Apply a bead of silicone sealant underneath each cap to block moisture.

• Nail them to the top of each post to finish the job.

Step 7: Protect and Paint

Once the fence is in place and fully set, apply a wood preservative or paint to protect it from fungi, insects, and the elements. This not only prolongs the life of your fence but enhances its appearance and ties it into your overall DIY garden design.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

For most properties, fences under 2 metres in height don’t require planning permission. However, if your fence borders a highway or you’re extending an existing structure over 1 metre high, consult your local council before starting the job. It’s always better to check first than to undo hard work later.

Ready to Build Your Fence?

From measuring up and digging post holes to positioning fence clips and pouring concrete, this guide gives you everything you need to know about how to build a fence successfully.

With the right planning, the right fencing tools, and a little help from a friend, you can create beautiful, functional garden fencing that transforms your outdoor space. So roll up your sleeves — your next DIY garden project starts now!