How do I calculate fence materials?

Measure total fence length, divide by post spacing (8ft typical) to get posts needed. Add 1 post for end. Calculate rails based on height (3 for 6ft). Pickets: divide length by board width plus gap.

How far apart should fence posts be?

8 feet on center is standard for wood privacy fences. 6 feet for gates or high-wind areas. 10 feet for chain link or vinyl. Closer spacing = stronger fence but more materials.

How much does fence material cost?

Wood privacy: $15-30/linear ft. Vinyl: $25-40/linear ft. Chain link: $10-20/linear ft. Split rail: $8-15/linear ft. Materials only, installation adds $5-15/linear ft.

What materials do I need for a fence?

Posts (4×4), rails (2×4), pickets (1×6 or 1×4), concrete (2 bags per post), gate hardware, screws or nails, post caps, stain/sealer for wood fences.

How deep should fence posts be?

Minimum 1/3 of post length below ground. 6ft fence = 2ft deep (8ft post). High-wind or frost line areas = 3ft deep. Use concrete for stability, especially for gates and corners.

Fence Calculator

Calculate fence posts, rails, and pickets needed

Fence Calculator

Calculate fencing materials needed for your project. Get post counts, picket numbers, rail requirements, and cost estimates.

Fence Dimensions

Fence Length *

Total linear feet of fence

Fence Height *

4ft for backyard, 6ft for privacy

Post Spacing *

8ft standard spacing for strength

Rails & Pickets

Number of Rails

rails

2 rails for short fences, 3-4 for tall privacy fences

Picket Width

5.5 inches (1×6 boards) most common

Picket Spacing

0 for privacy, 0.5-2 inches for decorative

Gates

Number of Gates

gates

Gates are subtracted from fence length

Gate Width

3-4ft for single, 6-8ft for double gates

Fence Installation Tips

Standard post spacing is 8 feet on-center for strength and minimal sagging. Use pressure-treated 4×4 posts buried 2-3 feet deep in concrete. Privacy fences use 1×6 pickets with no spacing, while decorative fences have gaps.

Plan 2 rails for fences under 5 feet and 3 rails for taller privacy fences. Each post requires 2 bags of 50lb concrete mix. Always add corner posts and gate posts to your total count. Check local building codes for setback requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this tool