How to Build a Picket Fence – The Complete Guide
A picket fence is more than just a boundary—it’s a statement. Whether you’re after that classic front garden charm or a practical, pet-friendly perimeter, picket fencing remains one of the most versatile and approachable styles for DIY homeowners and trade installers alike.
Unlike heavy-duty panel fencing or solid barriers, a picket fence keeps things light, open, and welcoming. It’s perfect for marking the edges of a lawn, securing a play area, or simply adding that traditional British countryside feel to a modern home. Best of all, it can be fully customised using individual pales and rails, giving you control over everything from spacing to paint colour.
At Clarke Fencing, we make it easy to build a fence that not only looks great but lasts for years. This complete guide walks you through every step—from measuring and choosing materials to installation tips and long-term care—so you can build with confidence, no matter your experience level.
Planning Your Picket Fence
Success starts with a clear plan. First, decide what your fence is meant to achieve. Are you securing a dog, improving kerb appeal, or replacing an old or damaged boundary? Once you know the purpose, measure your space and sketch a simple diagram showing each straight run, corner, gate position, and any obstacles like trees, walls, or driveways.
Check local planning rules too—UK front garden fences bordering a public road are usually limited to 1 metre in height unless approved by the local authority.
Choosing Your Picket Style
Clarke Fencing stocks a full range of individual picket pales and pre-assembled picket panels to suit every garden style.
You can choose between:
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Round Top pickets – a softer, more family-friendly look
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Pointed Top pickets – a sharper, more traditional finish
Each is available in two finishes:
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Sawn Brown – a rustic, cost-effective option with rougher texture
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Planed Green – a smooth, premium finish for a contemporary feel
Available in both 0.9m and 1.2m heights, these pales pair perfectly with our matching garden picket gates.
How to Calculate What You’ll Need
To work out how many panels and posts you’ll need:
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Divide your total fence run (in metres) by 1.83m
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Round up to the nearest whole number to get the number of panels
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You’ll need one post per panel, plus one extra for the end
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If you’re installing a gate, you’ll need one additional post on the hinge side
Example:
A 10m run → 10 ÷ 1.83 = 5.46 → round up to 6 panels
That means 7 posts (6 + 1), or 8 if a gate is included
If you’re using individual picket boards:
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Use our standard 70mm spacing rule (70mm pale + 70mm gap = 140mm per board)
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Multiply your total run by 7 to estimate how many pickets you need per metre
So a 10m run × 7 = approximately 70 pickets
Don’t forget to allow a few extras for cutting or spares.
Step-by-Step: How to Build a Picket Fence
1. Mark the Fence Line
Start by measuring and marking out your fence. Drive stakes into the ground at each end of your run and pull a tight string line 100mm above the ground. This helps keep everything straight and aligned.
Double-check that your layout sits within your property boundary, and allow for any gates, corners, or elevation changes.
2. Dig and Set the Fence Posts
Dig post holes approximately 600mm deep and 250mm wide. Add 100mm of gravel at the base for drainage. Position your post and pour in Postcrete, using around 1.5 to 2 bags per post. Add water and tamp lightly. Ensure the post is vertical using a spirit level and aligned to your string line.
If you’re using wooden fence posts, we strongly recommend fitting post saver sleeves to protect against ground rot. You can also use concrete fence posts for long-term durability.
3. Fit the Rails or Panels
If you’re installing pre-assembled picket panels, lift each one between the posts and secure using galvanised clips or screws. Always check that panels are level before fixing.
For custom fences made from individual pickets, first attach your horizontal rails:
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Use two rails for 0.9m fences (top and bottom)
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Use three rails for 1.2m fences (top, middle, and bottom)
We recommend planed back rails for smooth green pickets, and brown horse rails for rustic brown ones.
4. Attach the Picket Boards
Start at one end and work along, fixing each board to the rails using exterior screws or galvanised nails. Maintain a consistent 70mm gap between boards—use a simple spacer block to keep things even.
Ensure each board is upright using a level, and periodically step back to check visual alignment.
5. Add the Gate
Position your picket gate where needed. Use a 100mm x 100mm post on the hinge side for extra strength. Fix with galvanised strap hinges and a latch—either a traditional Suffolk latch or a ring latch.
Make sure the gate swings freely and has clearance at the bottom to avoid scraping on the ground.
6. Finishing Touches
Sand any sharp edges, wipe down the timber, and apply your choice of finish. White, sage green, grey, or cedar stain are all popular choices depending on your garden style.
Use a breathable exterior paint or wood stain and apply two coats for the best protection. Cap off post tops with bevelled cuts or post caps to prevent water pooling.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Success
To keep your picket fence in excellent condition:
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Inspect once or twice a year
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Recoat with paint or stain every 3–5 years
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Tighten any loose fixings
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Clean algae with mild vinegar and water
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Remove leaf build-up around posts to reduce rot risk
With proper care, your fence can last 10–15 years or longer—especially when built with UC4 pressure-treated timber and protective accessories.
Prefer a Quicker Install?
If building from scratch sounds too involved, Clarke Fencing also stocks ready-made picket fence panels in both 0.9m and 1.2m heights. These are ideal for straight runs and offer fast, professional results. Pair them with matching gates and timber posts for a cohesive look.
Build with Confidence
Building a picket fence from scratch might seem like a big task, but with the right planning and materials, it’s one of the most rewarding projects you can take on in the garden. It offers the perfect blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal—subtle enough for front gardens, yet sturdy enough to define any outdoor space.
Whether you prefer the refined look of planed green pickets or the rustic charm of sawn brown, Clarke Fencing stocks everything you need to bring your design to life. From individual picket pales and timber rails to posts and matching gates, our product range is backed by decades of fencing expertise and trusted customer service.
If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to get in touch or visit us in store—our team can offer guidance on quantities, spacing, post choices, and even paint options to suit your design goals. And remember, we also offer pre-assembled picket panels if you want a quicker install with all the charm.
However you choose to build it, a picket fence adds character, structure, and value to any property. Now’s the perfect time to make your outdoor space truly your own.
If you need further guidance or help choosing materials, our expert team is here to help—visit us in store or contact us online.
In Conclusion
Whether you choose the premium look of planed green pickets or the rustic charm of sawn brown, Clarke Fencing has everything you need—pickets, rails, posts, gates, and more.
If you’re looking to go deeper, check out our supporting guides on spacing, styles, and whether to build from panels or individual pales:
