Fence Calculator

How fence materials are calculated

A fence is built in sections between posts, so everything starts from the section count:

Sections = fence length ÷ post spacing, rounded up
Posts = sections + 1 (one post at each end of every section)
Rails = sections × rails per section
Pickets = fence length in inches ÷ (picket width + gap), rounded up

Panels or pickets? If you're hanging pre-built panels, you need one panel per section and skip the pickets and rails entirely — the count above shows both so you can shop either way. If you're building a stockade (board-on-board or spaced picket) fence from individual pickets, use the picket and rail counts.

Don't forget: corner posts and gate posts aren't in this count — add one post for each corner and two for each gate (gates also need their own framing and hardware, and gate posts are often set deeper with more concrete). The concrete estimate assumes roughly one 50 lb bag per standard post hole; wider or deeper holes, and frost-line requirements in cold climates, take more. Post spacing of 6–8 ft is typical for wood privacy fences — wider spacing sags and blows out in wind.

Before you dig: check your local rules and HOA requirements for height and placement, confirm the property line with a survey if there's any doubt, and call 811 (in the U.S.) at least a few days ahead so underground utilities get marked for free.