Fence Calculator: Posts, Rails and Pickets
Plan a wood fence in minutes. Enter the total run in feet and the spacing between posts, then set rails per section, picket width and any gates to get a full material list.
How to estimate fence materials
- Enter the total fence length in feet and the spacing between posts.
- Set rails per section, the picket width, and how many gates you have.
- Read off the sections, posts, rails and pickets to buy.
Examples
100 ft fence, 8 ft post spacing, 1 gate
length 100, spacing 8, 3 rails, 5.5 in pickets, 1 gate
13 sections, 15 posts, 39 rails, 219 pickets
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should fence posts be?
Six to eight feet is standard for wood fences. Eight feet uses fewer posts and is common, while six feet adds rigidity for tall or heavy panels and windy sites. The calculator defaults to eight.
Why is it posts plus one?
A straight run needs a post at both ends, so a fence with N sections uses N plus 1 line and end posts. Each gate adds one more post for the hinge or latch side, which the calculator includes.
How many rails per section do I need?
Two rails suit fences up to about four feet, while taller privacy fences usually use three. The default is three rails per section, which keeps pickets flat over time.
How do I count pickets?
Pickets are counted from total length and picket width with no gaps, since spacing between boards varies by style. For a gap or shadowbox look you will need fewer, so adjust the picket width to suit.
Does spacing change the picket count?
No. Pickets depend on the total length and picket width, not post spacing. Post spacing only changes how many sections, posts and rails you need along the same run.
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