Installing a wooden fence around your property is great for privacy, security and curb appeal. However, knowing how long the installation will take is important in your planning. The size of the area, the complexity of the design and whether you are choosing DIY or hiring a professional all impact the fence installation time. By planning ahead and preparing your site in advance you make the installation smoother and more efficient.
Below we explore various aspects and answer the question “How long does it take to put up a fence?”
Factors that affect wooden fencing installation time
Several aspects will impact the time needed for wooden fencing installation; we discuss these below:
Size of the fencing area
The larger the fencing run the longer the installation will take. Small gardens with shorter fencing (like picket fencing) may take a day or two to complete. Medium-sized gardens may take 2-3 days, whereas larger gardens may take several days to a week depending on the number of panels. This assumes that an average fencing panel takes around 60-75 minutes each to install complete with either a concrete fence post or timber fence post. See our blog article How to calculate fence installation costs for further details.
Ground conditions
Uneven ground, rocks, tree roots or other obstacles will slow down the installation process. These will require extra preparation time to clear debris, level the ground or cut through roots. The harder the ground the longer the installation will take so make sure to factor in any challenges your yard may present.
Number of fence posts
More fence posts mean more work. Digging holes for posts especially if they are being set in concrete will add time to the project. For large areas, you may need to install several posts a day, but each post requires careful placement and setting to ensure the fence is secure.
Weather conditions
Weather can also slow down the installation process. Rain, wind or extreme temps can cause delays if you are using concrete to set the posts. Wet or muddy ground can also make digging a challenge and add to the overall time to complete.
DIY vs professional wooden fence installation
When deciding between a DIY installation and hiring a professional, the time it takes to complete the project will vary considerably. Both options have their pros and cons and are important to understand when learning how to construct a fence.
DIY wooden fence installation time
For homeowners taking on the project themselves, wooden fence installation can take several days to a week or more, depending on the size and complexity of the fence. Smaller fences, such as those for small gardens, can be completed in a weekend, while larger fences for medium or large gardens may take a week or longer. If you are inexperienced or do not have the right tools, tasks like digging post holes, setting posts, and attaching fence panels can take longer than expected. Time frames can also stretch out due to unforeseen complications such as tricky ground conditions.
Professional wooden fence installation time
A professional will install your wooden fence much faster than a DIYer typically can. Smaller wooden fences (e.g. for a small garden) will take a day. Medium-size fences will take 1-2 days and larger fences 2-3 days. A professional has the experience, skills and tools to get fence installations completed quicker and less chance of delays.
Costs of installing a fence for each option
A DIY approach will save on labour costs but will take much longer. Professionals will cost more but will be quicker and often better. Costs for professionals will vary depending on the size of the area and the region of the UK. It will cost more for larger fences or more complex designs. Ultimately it will come down to your budget, time and comfort with the job.
Preparation needed for wooden fencing installation
Before you start installing your wooden fence you need to do some preparation work.
Site clearance and preparation
Clearing the site and marking out the fence line is the first step. This means removing any debris, plants or obstacles in the way of your fence line. Depending on the size and condition of the site this will take half a day to a day.
Fence post installation
Fence posts are important. You will need to dig holes for them, about 60cm deep for stability. If you are using concrete to set the posts, allow 24 to 48 hours for it to cure before you can attach the panels. Post installation can take a day or more depending on how many posts you’re doing and the size of your garden.
Step-by-step guide – how to construct a fence
To learn how to install wooden fencing, refer to our detailed blog post - Learn How to Erect a Fence: Complete Guide. This includes everything you need to know, which would be impractical to list here. Included within this post are detailed lists of the tools and materials required when installing a fence.
Fencing installation cost and time-saving tips
The fencing installation cost increases with the length and height of the fence. Larger fencing jobs require more materials and labour, so the cost goes up especially if you get a professional to install.
Customisation such as decorative fence panels, extra gates or extra features like trellising will add to the cost (and maybe significantly). These add-ons require more complex installation and extra materials.
Fence installation tips
To save time, follow these how to construct a fence tips:
- Bring in extra help – installing a fence often involves heavy lifting and handling long 6’ wide panels, with some being 6’ high too - 6’x6’. Get a friend or two, especially if they are handy, and you will get the job done faster and easier. With more hands on deck, you can tackle the heavy jobs more efficiently
- Check for underground utilities – before you start digging for posts, check for underground obstacles like pipes and cables. This will reduce the likelihood of nasty surprises, and the fence installation can continue without interruptions
- Choose materials in advance – select and gather all your fencing materials before you start. Having everything ready will reduce delays and the installation will flow from start to finish
- Prepare the site – before you install, make sure the ground is clear, level and ready for your fence. This means removing any debris and ensuring the site is well drained. Site preparation is key to a long-lasting and stable fence
- Tools and materials availability - make sure you have all your tools and materials before you start. Essential tools are posthole diggers, level, hammer, nails or screws, measuring tape and concrete for setting posts. Having these tools ready and preparing your materials beforehand will save you hours during the installation and reduce the time taken for trips to the hardware store. Click here to view an extensive list of all tools and materials required
Final thoughts – how long does it take to put up a fence
When installing a fence, you need to plan to make the process as painless as possible. The time it takes to install a fence depends on factors such as the size of the area, the ground conditions and if you are doing it yourself or getting professional help.
Knowing how long it takes to put up a fence will help you manage your expectations, especially with larger or more complicated projects. Whether you are doing it yourself or getting professionals, planning will reduce delays. Follow our fence installation tips and make sure all tools and materials are ready before you start.
Contact us
Why not contact Buy Fencing Direct for installing a fence advice? Our friendly team have lots of experience with fence installations and can advise on our entire range of fencing products.
Contact us in the following ways:
- Telephone – call us today at 0333 003 0515
- Emails – send emails using our contact form, which is embedded in our contact page
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