Fencing Checklist
Fence Job Order List: What To Buy Before You Start
Panels are only part of the job. Posts, gravel boards, postcrete, fixings and the small bits are usually what stop a fence job halfway through.
A good fence order starts with the full run, not just the number of panels. Measure the length, check the height, count the bays, then order the posts, boards, postcrete and fixings to match.
Start With The Fence Run
Before ordering, measure the total length of the fence line and work out how many bays you need. A standard fence bay is usually one panel between two posts, but real gardens are rarely perfect.
Check for slopes, corners, old concrete, tree roots, awkward access and any short bays that may need cutting down.
Panels Are Only Part Of The Order
Most fence jobs do not go wrong because someone forgot the panels. They go wrong because someone forgot the posts, gravel boards, postcrete or fixings.
If you are replacing a run, check whether the existing posts and boards are actually reusable. A panel can look tired, but a rotten post is what normally causes the real problem.
Concrete Posts Or Timber Posts?
Concrete posts are heavy but strong, long-lasting and popular for fence runs that need to stand up to weather. Timber posts are easier to handle and can give a softer look, especially in garden settings.
Concrete Posts
Good for strength, durability and straightforward panel replacement later.
Timber Posts
Good for lighter handling, a traditional look and jobs where timber finish matters.
Do Not Forget The Gravel Boards
Gravel boards sit at the bottom of the fence and help keep panels off the ground. That matters because panels sitting directly on soil or wet ground can deteriorate faster.
Concrete gravel boards are strong and low maintenance. Timber gravel boards can suit lighter jobs and timber fencing runs.
Useful fencing materials
Fence panels, concrete posts, timber posts, gravel boards, postcrete and fixings.
Postcrete: The Easy One To Forget
Postcrete is one of the common “I’ll come back for that” items. The problem is, by the time you need it, the holes are open and everyone wants the job finished.
Work out how many posts you are installing and order enough postcrete before you start. The exact amount depends on hole size, depth and ground conditions.
Fixings And Small Bits
Screws, brackets, clips and caps are not the exciting part of a fence order, but they are exactly the sort of thing that turns one trip into three.
Check what is needed for the type of post, panel and gravel board being used. Do not assume the old fixings will come out cleanly or be worth reusing.
Tools Worth Checking Before Site
A fence job needs more than materials. Check the basics before you leave: tape measure, string line, level, spade, post hole digger, saw, drill, gloves and PPE.
The spirit level is especially important. A fence can be strong, but if it is leaning from day one, nobody is calling it a feature.
Quick Planning Sense Check
Most like-for-like domestic fence repairs are straightforward, but height and location can matter.
As a general planning check in England, fences, gates and walls can need permission if they are over 1 metre high next to a highway used by vehicles, or over 2 metres high elsewhere.
Delivery And Access
Fence panels, concrete posts and gravel boards are long, heavy and awkward. Think about where they can be dropped, whether access is clear and how far they need to be carried.
If the materials need to go through a narrow side gate or around a tight corner, it is better to know before the delivery turns up.
Simple Fence Order Checklist
Before sending your quote request, list the full fence run, panel size, post type, gravel board type and any fixings needed. Add a note about delivery access if it is tight.
Need Fencing Materials For A Job?
Canvey Supply stocks fencing materials, posts, gravel boards, postcrete, timber, fixings and building supplies for trade and DIY customers across Essex.
