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Fence Calculator

Estimate the number of posts, rails, pickets, and hardware needed for a fence based on perimeter and height.

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1. Enter the total linear footage of your fence line and the desired fence height. 2. Select a fence style - privacy, picket, or ranch rail - to set default component spacing. 3. Adjust post spacing, picket width, and gap size if your project differs from the defaults. 4. Specify the number of gate openings and corner posts for accurate material counts. 5. Review the complete materials list showing post count, rails, pickets, and concrete bags per post hole.

About This Tool

Building a fence requires more than just picking a style - you need to know exactly how many posts, rails, pickets, and fasteners to purchase before you start. This fence calculator takes your total fence length and height and breaks down every component, so you can create an accurate shopping list and budget before heading to the lumber yard.

The calculator supports common fence styles including privacy, picket, and ranch rail. Enter the total linear footage of your fence line and the desired height, and it computes the number of posts (with configurable spacing, typically 6 to 8 feet), horizontal rails per section (usually 2 or 3 depending on height), pickets with adjustable gap spacing, and gate openings. It also accounts for corner and end posts, which need to be set deeper and may require larger dimensions.

Beyond quantities, the tool provides practical guidance on post depth (typically one-third of the above-ground height plus 6 inches), concrete per post hole, and total board feet of lumber. Whether you are installing a backyard privacy fence, a decorative garden border, or a ranch perimeter, this calculator ensures you order the right materials the first time.

Formula / How It Works

Posts = (Fence Length / Post Spacing) + 1 | Rails = Sections x Rails per Section | Pickets = Fence Length / (Picket Width + Gap)

Frequently Asked Questions

Standard fence post spacing is 6 to 8 feet on center. Six-foot spacing provides a stronger fence and is recommended for privacy fences and windy areas. Eight-foot spacing is common for ranch or split-rail fences and uses fewer posts. Always place posts at corners, ends, and gate locations regardless of the spacing interval.
A general rule is to bury one-third of the total post length. For a 6-foot above-ground fence, use an 8-foot post with 2 feet buried. In areas with frost, the bottom of the post should extend below the frost line - typically 36 to 48 inches deep. Setting posts in concrete provides the strongest anchor.
Fences up to 4 feet tall typically use two horizontal rails - one near the top and one near the bottom. Fences 5 feet and taller should have three rails for adequate support - top, middle, and bottom. Some tall privacy fences use a kickboard at the base, which acts as an additional rail.
Divide the total fence length by the picket width plus the gap between pickets. For a privacy fence with no gaps, use the picket width alone. For example, a 100-foot fence using 5.5-inch pickets with a 1.5-inch gap needs 100 x 12 / (5.5 + 1.5) = approximately 171 pickets. Add 10% for waste.
A typical fence post hole is 10 to 12 inches in diameter and 24 to 36 inches deep, requiring about 1 to 1.5 bags of 50 lb fast-setting concrete per post. For a stronger hold, use two bags per post. Multiply by your total post count to determine the total concrete needed for the project.

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