A fence built from rigid rectangular panels can follow a slope in level steps. The important decisions are where each step falls, what happens to the gap underneath, and whether the posts can support the taller side of each step. Work those out on a sketch before you dig.
Measure the run horizontally
Mark the boundary, corners and proposed gate posts. Use a level string line or laser to record the ground height at each post position. Measure the horizontal distance between post centres. A tape lying on the slope follows the ground and gives a longer measurement. Use the panel supplier’s specified bay spacing, which depends on the posts and fixings as well as the panel width.
Confirm the boundary and check for buried services before making holes. If the height is close to a planning threshold, ask your local planning authority how it should be measured on the slope. Include gravel boards and any proposed trellis when describing the finished fence. Planning guidance for England.
Sketch the gap under each level bay
If the ground drops 140 mm across one bay, a horizontal panel with its bottom just clearing the high side will leave about 140 mm more space at the low side. Mark that on the sketch. A gravel board compatible with the system can help close the gap, or a narrower bay can reduce the drop within a panel. If the proposed board would hold back earth, get a separate retaining detail designed.
A shared post between steps must reach high enough for the upper bay, while still meeting the manufacturer’s footing requirements. Use the supplier’s post and footing specifications for the height, ground and wind exposure. Check that slots or brackets have room for both panel levels before ordering. Example of manufacturer guidance for steeply stepped fencing.
Worked layout with a gate
With a full bay spacing of 1.90 m, a 5.70 m run gives three full bays. A 4.60 m run on the far side of the gate gives two full bays and a final bay of 800 mm measured between post centres. The panel will be narrower once you allow for the posts and fittings. Ask whether the panel can be cut and reframed or order a matching narrow panel.
The gate opening sits between those runs. Mark its posts using the supplier’s clear opening and fitting details. Check the swing against the ground through its whole arc, not just at the latch. Use the fencing calculator for each run. Count each shared post once and estimate larger gate footings separately.
Shopping list for this layout
- Six panel bays. Five full panels and one narrow panel for the 800 mm bay. Confirm the actual panel width with the supplier.
- Eight posts. Four per run, including the two posts that also frame the gate opening.
- One gate and its fittings. Check the required opening, hinge and latch details. Estimate the two gate footings separately if their dimensions differ from the other six.
Dry-fit the first step before setting the rest
Set out all the post centres and mark the intended top of each panel on the posts. Check the first bay with the actual panel and fittings, including its gravel board if you’re using one. Confirm the downhill clearance, then check the next step from the shared post. If the last bay is too narrow or the gate catches the ground, adjust the layout now. A small change on paper is much easier than moving a post after the concrete has set.
Further Reading
