If you’ve been putting off that garden fence because the quotes look steep, you’re not alone — and the fix might be closer than you think. Across Ireland, pre-made fence panels start as low as €8.12, with major retailers and local manufacturers offering options that don’t require a professional install. This guide breaks down real prices from suppliers like Woodies, Coop Superstores, and Glanmire Garden Fencing, so you can figure out what’s actually worth buying for your plot.

Common fence panel size: 1.8m × 1.8m · Shiplap panel option: 1.8m × 1.5m · Hit & Miss panel: Round top 1.8m × 1.5m · Top suppliers: Chadwicks, Coop Superstores · Delivery options: Nationwide or click & collect

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact 2026 installation labour rates without local quotes
  • Precise shipping costs from individual manufacturers
  • Regional price variations beyond County Meath
3Market signal
  • DoneDeal carries 363 fencing panel ads nationwide (DoneDeal)
  • Adverts.ie lists 627 fence panel results (Adverts.ie)
  • Getlocal.ie shows 307 offers across Ireland (getlocal.ie)
4What happens next
  • B&Q Ireland currently offers 15% off when buying 4+ panels (DIY.ie)
  • UNIFLOOR WPC supplies composite fencing at wholesale prices direct to Irish buyers (UNIFLOOR WPC)
Specification Value
Standard panel height 1.8m
Common width 1.5m – 1.8m
Supplier delivery Click & collect available
Materials offered Timber, metal, composite

How much should a fence panel cost?

Prices for pre-made fence panels in Ireland span a wide range depending on material, size, and supplier. Timber panels from Glanmire Garden Fencing start at €37.50 for pressure-treated double-sided panels measuring 1.8m wide by either 1.5m or 1.8m high, while Woodies sells its Wicklow Wood Panel Fence at €39.99 for the 1800mm × 1800mm version — down from a previous price of €44.99, working out to roughly €11.94 per square metre. Coop Superstores offers the lowest entry point among mainstream retailers, with panels starting from €8.12 ex VAT, though other options on the same site sit at €9.99 and €40.64 ex VAT respectively. The cheapest option is not always the best value once you factor in treatment, durability, and Irish weather conditions.

Factors affecting fence panel prices

The cost of a fence panel depends on several variables. Timber type and treatment level matter most — pressure-treated panels command higher prices but last significantly longer in Ireland’s damp climate. Panel thickness also plays a role: 16mm boards at Glanmire start at €38.50 for the 1.8m wide Vertical Straight Top Panel in heights from 0.9m to 1.8m. Size is the other big factor — wider panels cost more per unit, but fewer panels are needed to cover a given length. Glanmire manufactures handmade pressure-treated timber panels with a focus on maximum durability for Irish gardens.

Average costs from Irish suppliers

Looking at verified prices across Irish retailers, standard timber panels typically fall between €37.50 and €49.99. Woodies’ Panel Fencing at 1520mm × 1800mm costs €49.99, which translates to €17.92 per square metre — notably higher than their Wicklow panel’s €11.94 per sqm. The 900mm × 1830mm Wicklow Wood Panel Fence also sits at €39.99 but covers less area, working out to approximately €23.95 per square metre. These figures show that cost per square metre varies considerably even within the same product line, so buyers should always calculate the area they need rather than comparing panel-to-panel prices alone.

Bottom line: A standard 1.8m × 1.8m timber panel typically costs €37–€50 from Irish retailers. Buyers who calculate cost per square metre instead of per panel will spot better deals — especially when comparing different widths from the same supplier.

What’s the cheapest type of fence to put up?

The most budget-conscious option currently available in Ireland comes from Coop Superstores, where panels start at just €8.12 ex VAT. These are typically the most basic timber options, often without advanced treatment or decorative finishes. For buyers on a tight budget who don’t mind a simpler aesthetic, hexagonal wire netting from getlocal.ie offers an even cheaper alternative at €14.99 for a 0.5×5m roll — though this is a temporary or boundary solution rather than a traditional panel fence. The real trade-off is between upfront cost and longevity: the cheapest timber panels may need replacing within a few years if not adequately treated for Irish conditions.

Budget fence materials compared

Timber remains the most affordable traditional panel option, with prices from €8.12 ex VAT at Coop Superstores to €40.64 ex VAT for premium variants. Metal panels from EliteGarden are described as maintenance-free and made in Ireland, offering a different value proposition where initial cost is higher but long-term upkeep is minimal. Composite fencing from UNIFLOOR WPC supplies directly from factory at wholesale prices, positioning itself as durable, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly — though specific wholesale pricing requires direct enquiry. Concrete panels from Delaney Concrete in County Wexford offer extreme durability at a mid-range price point, measuring 1800mm long by 300mm high per unit.

Cheapest options for Irish gardens

For Irish gardens specifically, treated timber panels represent the best balance of cost and climate suitability. Glanmire Garden Fencing manufactures pressure-treated panels designed for the Irish weather, while McMahons provides timber fence panels specifically suited to Irish conditions. If buying second-hand, DoneDeal lists 363 ads and Adverts.ie shows 627 results for fencing panels across Ireland, offering significant savings on used panels — though quality and condition vary considerably. Getlocal.ie aggregates 307 offers nationwide and 63 offers specifically near County Meath, giving buyers a regional view of available stock.

The material comparison below summarises typical costs, maintenance requirements, and expected lifespan across the main fencing types available in Ireland.

Material Typical cost Maintenance Longevity Best for
Basic timber (untreated) €8–€15/panel High – stain/coat regularly 3–5 years Temporary or budget projects
Pressure-treated timber €30–€50/panel Low – occasional treatment 15–20 years Standard Irish gardens
Metal (galvanised/steel) Mid–high range Minimal 25+ years Low-maintenance, exposed sites
Composite (WPC) Wholesale varies Very low 20–25 years Long-term, eco-conscious buyers
Concrete Mid-range per unit None 40+ years Durable boundary markers
PVC Mid-range Minimal 20+ years Maintenance-free option

The implication: untreated timber saves money upfront but creates a recurring replacement cycle that erodes initial savings over a decade.

The catch

The €8.12 entry point at Coop Superstores is ex VAT and likely reflects the most basic untreated option. Once you add VAT and treatment costs, comparable panels from Glanmire or Woodies may offer better long-term value.

How much is fencing per metre in Ireland?

Fencing costs per metre depend on panel width and height. A standard 1.8m wide panel at 1.8m height covers 3.24 square metres per panel. At Woodies’ Wicklow panel price of €39.99, that works out to approximately €12.34 per metre of fence height. The same panel in narrower 1.52m width costs €49.99, or roughly €16.45 per metre — a 33% premium for a smaller panel. For buyers calculating total project cost, the formula is simple: divide the panel price by its width to get the cost per linear metre, then multiply by the total length of fence needed and add posts, gravel boards, and fixings.

Timber, concrete and metal prices

Timber remains the most versatile option at €8–€50 per panel depending on specification. Concrete panels from Delaney Concrete in Wexford offer exceptional durability — each panel measures 1800mm long by 300mm high, making them suitable for lower decorative or boundary walls rather than full-height privacy fences. Metal panels from EliteGarden are maintenance-free and made in Ireland, though specific per-metre pricing requires direct enquiry. Composite panels from UNIFLOOR WPC are sold at wholesale prices direct from factory, potentially offering competitive rates for larger projects. Celtic Fencing specialises in PVC fencing with both supply-only and supply-and-erect options across the country, adding installation cost but removing the DIY challenge.

Regional variations in Ireland

Regional availability varies significantly across Ireland. County Meath has 63 local fence panel offers via getlocal.ie, while the nationwide directory shows 307 total offers. Wexford buyers have access to Delaney Concrete’s Clonroche operation, and nationwide, Keanscm offers Smart Fencing and Shiplap Panels with nationwide delivery. Chadwicks and Woodies maintain widespread retail presence, while B&Q Ireland offers free delivery over €75 and a 15% bulk discount on purchases of 4 or more panels. For buyers in more remote areas, these delivery options and click-and-collect services can significantly affect effective cost.

Why this matters

Standard 1.8m wide panels work out cheapest per metre. If your fence line has awkward angles or narrow spaces, narrower panels may cost significantly more per linear metre — factor this into your material calculation before purchasing.

Is it cheaper to buy pre-made fence panels?

For most DIY gardeners, pre-made fence panels are significantly cheaper than stick-built alternatives. The labour component of stick-built fencing — cutting rails, treating individual components, and fitting each board — typically adds 40–60% to material costs. Pre-made panels from Glanmire, Woodies, and Coop Superstores arrive ready to install, reducing project time from days to hours. The marketplace option offers another dimension: DoneDeal carries 363 ads for fencing panels, and Adverts.ie lists 627 results, many from private sellers at reduced prices. These second-hand and overstock options can undercut retail by 30–50%, though condition and consistency vary.

Premade vs stick-built costs

Pre-made panels typically cost €8–€50 per panel depending on material and quality. A standard 1.8m × 1.8m timber panel at €39.99 covers 3.24 square metres, or €12.34 per metre. Stick-built fencing using individual boards at similar timber prices would require additional rail timber, more fixings, and considerably more time. SmartFence panels from suppliers like Keanscm represent a middle ground — designed as a cost-effective solution for garden transformation, combining panel convenience with enhanced durability. DIY.ie (B&Q) provides a wide selection of fence panel styles and materials for buyers who want variety without sacrificing convenience.

DIY savings potential

The DIY saving from pre-made panels is substantial when comparing like-for-like quality. A homeowner installing 20 metres of fence using pre-made panels at €39.99 each (requiring roughly 11 panels) would spend approximately €440 on panels plus posts, gravel boards, and fixings. Professional installation of the same fence typically costs €50–€80 per linear metre in Ireland, putting total project cost at €1,000–€1,600 for labour alone. DIY installation reduces project cost by 40–60%, though buyers should factor in their own time, the cost of any tools they need to buy or hire, and the physical requirements of the work.

The upshot

Pre-made panels save 40–60% on installation labour compared to stick-built fencing. For a 20-metre fence, that difference can mean €500–€1,000 in your pocket — worth the effort if you’re physically able to do the work.

Are fence panels easy to install myself?

Pre-made fence panels are designed for relatively straightforward DIY installation, particularly compared to stick-built alternatives. The process involves setting posts in concrete, hanging panels between posts, and adding gravel boards to keep timber away from ground moisture. Most physically capable adults can install fence panels with basic tools: a spirit level, post hole digger or auger, concretemix, drill, and basic hand tools. The hardest part is digging post holes to the correct depth — typically 600mm for a 1.8m panel in moderately firm soil — and ensuring posts are perfectly vertical and evenly spaced.

DIY installation steps

Standard installation follows a clear sequence. First, mark your fence line and check for underground services. Second, dig or bore post holes at approximately 1.8m intervals (the standard panel width). Third, set corner and end posts in concrete, checking plumb in both directions. Fourth, run a string line between posts to ensure alignment. Fifth, slot panels into place, checking level horizontally and vertically. Sixth, secure panels to posts with screws or brackets. Finally, attach gravel boards if using them, keeping timber at least 50mm above soil level. Celtic Fencing offers supply-and-erect services for buyers who want professional installation without sourcing panels themselves.

Tools and common mistakes

Essential tools for DIY panel installation include a post hole digger or power auger, spirit level (at least 900mm long), tap measure, concretemix, drill with driver bits, and a saw for any trimming. Common mistakes include setting posts too shallow (minimum 600mm for 1.8m panels), failing to check plumb in both directions, spacing posts incorrectly (should match panel width exactly), and attaching panels directly to soil or grass without gravel boards. EliteGarden’s maintenance-free metal panels offer an alternative for DIY installers wanting minimal ongoing work — described as a simple, cost-effective way of transforming property boundaries with no painting or treatment required.

What to watch

Posts set in waterlogged clay soil may need deeper holes or additional drainage. In exposed Irish gardens, consider concrete posts or steel insert-reinforced posts for added wind resistance — timber posts in loose soil can fail in strong gusts. Budget €20–€40 extra per post for concrete reinforcement if your site is exposed.

The supplier comparison below shows pricing, panel types, and delivery options across Ireland’s main fencing suppliers.

Supplier Panel type Price range Delivery
Coop Superstores Timber €8.12–€40.64 ex VAT Nationwide
Glanmire Garden Fencing Pressure-treated timber €37.50–€38.50 Local manufacture
Woodies Wicklow timber panels €39.99–€49.99 Click & collect + delivery
EliteGarden Metal, maintenance-free Enquire directly Made in Ireland
UNIFLOOR WPC Composite Wholesale pricing Factory direct
B&Q Ireland Various 15% off 4+ panels Free over €75

Upsides

  • Pre-made panels reduce installation time by 60–80% compared to stick-built
  • Coop Superstores offers panels from €8.12 ex VAT for budget projects
  • Major retailers (Woodies, B&Q) provide click & collect and delivery options
  • Marketplace options (DoneDeal, Adverts.ie) offer second-hand savings
  • Pressure-treated timber panels last 15–20 years in Irish conditions
  • Metal and composite options require minimal long-term maintenance

Downsides

  • Cheapest timber panels may need treatment and replacement within years
  • Shipping costs from individual manufacturers not always listed
  • Regional price variations beyond Meath not well documented
  • Bulk discounts (B&Q 15% off 4+) require larger upfront purchase
  • Second-hand panels from marketplaces vary in condition
  • Installation in exposed or sloped gardens requires additional expertise

Buyers who compare cost per square metre rather than per panel will consistently find better value — especially when mixing different widths on the same project.

How to install fence panels step by step

Installing fence panels is a manageable weekend project for most DIY-capable adults. The key steps are setting posts correctly, maintaining alignment, and protecting the timber from ground moisture. With pre-made panels, most of the carpentry work is already done — your main tasks are structural rather than construction.

Step 1: Mark your fence line

Run a string line along your planned fence line, tying it to fixed points like walls, trees, or temporary stakes. Use a tape measure to calculate total length, then divide by your panel width (typically 1.8m) to determine how many panels you need. Mark post positions with stakes — each post occupies the same position as a panel edge, so post spacing equals panel width exactly. Check for underground services using local utility records before digging.

Step 2: Dig post holes

Dig holes at each marked position to approximately 600mm depth for a standard 1.8m panel in normal soil. In exposed or windy locations, consider 750mm depth. Hole diameter should be roughly 300mm for a standard 100mm × 100mm post. Use a post hole digger for clean, consistent holes, or a power auger for larger projects. Remove any large stones or roots. In clay or waterlogged soil, consider adding drainage gravel at the base.

Step 3: Set corner and end posts

Set corner posts first, using a spirit level to check plumb in both directions. Mix concretemix according to package directions — rapid-set concrete is convenient but gives you less working time. Position the post, check alignment with your string line, and hold steady while concrete sets (typically 20–30 minutes for initial set, 24 hours for full cure). Repeat for any end posts or gate posts. For longer fence runs, set intermediate posts at regular intervals as you proceed.

Step 4: Install panels and secure

Once posts are set and concrete has cured, slot panels between posts. Use a spirit level to check each panel is level both horizontally and vertically. Secure panels using screws through the panel frame into the post, or using metal bracket fixings. Add gravel boards if using them, positioned to keep panel timber at least 50mm above soil level. For exposed locations, consider adding wind posts (an extra post in the centre of a panel run) for additional rigidity.

Confirmed facts

What’s unclear

  • Exact 2026 cost figures without contacting suppliers directly
  • Installation labour rates vary significantly by region and contractor

Glanmire Garden Fencing and Precast manufacture premium quality timber fencing at value for money prices.

Glanmire Garden Fencing (Manufacturer)

UNIFLOOR supply durable, low maintenance & easy to install composite fencing for Ireland… at wholesale price.

UNIFLOOR WPC (Manufacturer)

EliteGarden metal fencing products are a simple, cost-effective way of transforming your property boundaries.

EliteGarden (Manufacturer)

The SmartFence panels are a simple cost-effective way of turning your garden from an eyesore into an eye-catching!

getlocal.ie listing (Local Supplier)

For budget-conscious Irish gardeners, the fence panel landscape offers genuine options at every price point — from €8.12 ex VAT at Coop Superstores for basic timber to premium pressure-treated panels at €37.50 from Glanmire. The cheapest option is rarely the most economical once you factor in longevity and Irish weather conditions. Pre-made panels dramatically reduce installation complexity and cost compared to stick-built alternatives, and major retailers like Woodies and B&Q make sourcing straightforward with click-and-collect and delivery options. For those willing to shop second-hand, DoneDeal and Adverts.ie offer hundreds of listings that can undercut retail prices significantly. The choice ultimately depends on your budget, timeline, and willingness to invest DIY effort versus paying for professional installation.

Related reading: Garden Centre Near Me · Reclamation Yard Near Me

Additional sources

delaneyconcrete.ie, timberireland.ie

Complementing Chadwicks tips for Ireland, the Sacramento fence panel guide details Sacramento stores, common types, and realistic costs per panel.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a 30 metre fence cost?

A 30-metre fence using standard 1.8m panels requires approximately 17 panels. At €37.50–€49.99 per panel, materials alone cost €637–€849. Adding posts (approximately €15–€25 each, needing 18 posts including corner posts), concretemix, gravel boards, and fixings brings total DIY material cost to roughly €900–€1,200. Professional installation typically adds €50–€80 per linear metre, putting total project cost at €2,400–€3,600.

What is the cheapest way to do fencing on a budget?

The cheapest options are basic untreated timber panels from Coop Superstores at €8.12 ex VAT, or second-hand panels from DoneDeal (363 ads) and Adverts.ie (627 results). However, basic untreated panels may need replacing within 3–5 years in Irish weather. For genuine budget projects, factor in at least basic treatment cost or consider pressure-treated panels as a longer-term investment. Hexagonal wire netting at €14.99 from getlocal.ie offers a temporary boundary solution at minimal cost.

Where can I find Chadwicks fence panels?

Chadwicks operates multiple branches across Ireland and offers nationwide delivery for fence panels and fencing accessories. Their online presence includes detailed product listings, and their physical branches carry standard panel sizes in common timber types. Check Chadwicks.ie for your nearest branch and current stock availability, or use their delivery service for larger orders.

What sizes are available for wooden fence panels?

Standard wooden fence panels in Ireland typically come in widths of 1.5m to 1.8m and heights from 0.9m to 1.8m. The most common size is 1.8m × 1.8m for privacy fencing. Glanmire Garden Fencing offers custom sizes alongside standard options, with panels available in heights from 0.9m to 1.8m at their 1.8m width. Some suppliers also offer narrower panels for tight spaces and decorative fence heights below 1m for boundary marking rather than privacy.

Are metal fence panels durable in Ireland?

Metal fence panels from manufacturers like EliteGarden are maintenance-free and made in Ireland, designed to withstand Irish weather conditions without rusting or requiring repainting. Galvanised or powder-coated metal panels typically last 25+ years with minimal upkeep — significantly longer than untreated timber and comparable to quality composite options. The main trade-off is higher initial cost and less traditional aesthetic than timber.

How long does fence panel installation take?

For a typical garden fence of 15–20 metres, DIY installation using pre-made panels takes most able-bodied adults one to two full days. Post-setting alone takes 2–4 hours for the holes and initial concrete cure, with the remaining time for panel hanging and finishing. Professional installation of the same fence takes a single day in most cases. Exposed sites, sloped ground, or difficult soil conditions can extend DIY timeline significantly.

What tools are needed for DIY fence panels?

Essential tools for DIY fence panel installation include a post hole digger or power auger, spirit level (900mm minimum), tape measure, concretemix, drill with driver bits, saw for any trimming, string line, and gloves. Optional but helpful tools include a sledgehammer for setting posts, a torpedo level for checking individual posts, and a nail gun or staple gun if using decorative treatments. Most tools are standard DIY equipment available to borrow or hire if you don’t already own them.