How to cut a fence panel to size

The weather has finally started to pick up and it’s time to start thinking about replacing those old worn out fence panels that might have taken some hammering during the winter storms. No matter the size of the garden though, it’s likely that you’re going to have to use a non-standard panel somewhere. We can supply bespoke panels of whatever size you need. Just let us know the size and we’ll make it to measure.

What tools do I need to cut a fence panel to size?

• Tape measure
• Long straight edge such as a long level
• Pencil
• Hammer
• Crowbar
• Circular Saw or Hand Saw

We’ll be reusing the nails from our batten so, providing you are careful, you shouldn’t need any extra.

How do I cut a fence panel to size?

1. You should already have your fence posts in place, if not, here’s our guide to installing fence posts. Once you have done this, measure the width between the bottom of the two posts and again where your fence panel will sit at the top.
2. Lay your panel on a flat, even surface such as a patio.
3. Mark the measurements you made at the bottom and top of your fence panel.
4. Take your long level and, using your pencil, draw a line to join your two measurement points up.
5. Now place your level under the backside of the lap panel, away from where you are cutting. This will raise the panel slightly giving you room to manoeuvre your saw.
6. Ideally, an electric saw such as a circular saw will make quick work of the job. A hand saw can be used, it will just take you longer and you’ll need to be careful not to over-stress or snap the overlaps as you cut them.
7. Now, take a crowbar and carefully prize the batten away from your off-cut. If you’re too hasty here, you’ll risk weakening the panel or snapping the batten – but don’t worry, we stock replacement battens.
8. Using your hammer, gently tap your nails partway out of the batten. Don’t take them out altogether, keeping them in place will make re-fastening the batten easier later on.
9. Place each part of the batten on either side of the sawn fence and hammer back into place.

Although cutting a lap panel down to size is a fairly straightforward job, it is better to have the right tools for the job or it can be time-consuming. Before making a decision on whether or not to go ahead, why not let us put you in touch with our local installer network where a trusted expert will be able to give you a price and advise further.