Working out how much temporary fencing you need is the first step to getting a quote, and it’s easier than it looks. You need two things: the length of the fence line and the panel width. Our panels are 2.4 m wide × 2.1 m high (hot-dip galvanised, 150 × 60 mm anti-climb mesh), so each panel covers 2.4 m of fence line.
Step 1: Measure the fence line
Walk the line where the fence will go and measure it in metres. A measuring wheel is ideal, but pacing it out or using a site plan or an online map is fine for a first estimate.
- Measure only the sections that actually need fencing. If an existing wall, building or permanent fence closes off one side, you don’t need to fence that side.
- Note where you need openings for people, vehicles or deliveries.
- Note any corners, slopes or obstacles such as trees, power poles or driveways along the line.
Step 2: Divide by 2.4 and round up
Panels = fence length (m) ÷ 2.4, rounded up
Always round up. A fence that stops a metre short isn’t doing its job.
Step 3: Work out bases and clamps
Each panel stands in a base at both ends, and neighbouring panels share a base where they join. Our bases are orange plastic shells filled with concrete (about 26 kg each), and our galvanised clamps are sized for the panels’ 32 mm frame tube.
- Straight or open run (the fence has two loose ends): bases ≈ panels + 1, clamps ≈ one per join (panels − 1).
- Closed perimeter (the fence goes all the way around): bases ≈ panels, clamps ≈ one per join (same as the panel count).
Some sites call for extra clamps per join, or extra support on windy or exposed sites (stays are available on request), so treat these numbers as a starting point. We’ll confirm the right quantities for your layout when we quote.
Worked examples
| Job | Fence line | Panels | Bases (approx.) | Clamps (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Street frontage only | 30 m straight run | 30 ÷ 2.4 = 12.5 → 13 | 14 | 12 |
| Front plus two sides, back closed by existing fence | 15 m + 10 m + 10 m = 35 m | 35 ÷ 2.4 = 14.6 → 15 | 16 | 14 |
| Full perimeter of a 20 m × 35 m block | 2 × (20 + 35) = 110 m | 110 ÷ 2.4 = 45.8 → 46 | 46 | 46 |
Things that change the count
- Corners and angles. Panels can’t bend, so tight corners and odd angles sometimes need an extra panel.
- Slopes and uneven ground. On a slope, panels step down rather than following the ground exactly. Tell us about steep sections.
- Openings. Let us know where people and vehicles need to get through, so the layout can allow for it. Gates are available on request.
- Staging. If the fence will move as the job progresses, give us the largest layout you’ll need at any one time.
- Shade cloth and signage. Fence that carries cloth or banners catches a lot more wind, so it may need extra stability.
Not sure? Send what you have
You don’t need exact numbers to request a quote. An approximate length, a rough sketch or just the site address and what you’re trying to fence off is enough to get started. We’ll work through the details with you.