About Fence Calculator
This calculator estimates the materials needed for a standard wooden privacy fence. Posts are assumed every 8 feet (customisable), with 2 horizontal rails per section and pickets mounted vertically.
Each post hole requires roughly one 60lb bag of concrete mix for proper setting. Rail count assumes 2 rails per section (top and bottom). Gate posts are not deducted — they are included in the post count.
How to Use the Fence Calculator
Planning a 100 ft long privacy fence that's 6 ft high? Enter 100 for length, 6 for height. Set post spacing to 8 ft — that's standard for most wooden fences. If you have 1 gate, enter that too. For picket width, standard dog-eared fence pickets are 5.5 inches wide. A 2-inch gap between pickets is typical for privacy fences. Hit calculate, and you'll see you need about 14 posts, 26 rails (2 per section between 13 sections), and roughly 160 pickets. You'll also need about 14 bags of 60lb concrete mix for setting the posts. If your fence runs along a slope, you'll need more complex planning — stepped panels or racked fencing — but this estimate gives you a solid starting point for material budgeting.
When to Use This Calculator
Installing a backyard privacy fence: A standard 6 ft privacy fence around a 50x50 ft backyard (200 linear ft) needs about 26 posts, 50 rails, and 350+ pickets. This upfront estimate helps you decide between DIY and hiring a pro.
Building a pool fence: Safety codes usually require 4 ft maximum height with specific gap restrictions (no more than 4 inches between pickets). A 40x20 ft pool enclosure runs about 120 linear ft of fencing. Use smaller picket gaps for safety compliance.
Marking property boundaries: A boundary fence might use wider post spacing (10 ft) and fewer pickets depending on local codes. A 300 ft lot line fence with 2-rail ranch fencing uses far fewer materials than a privacy fence.
How to Interpret Your Results
The Number of Posts (14 posts for 100 ft) comes from dividing the length by spacing and adding one for the end. Each post needs a concrete footing, about one 60lb bag per hole. The Rails count assumes 2 horizontal rails per section — adequate for 6 ft height; for taller fences (8 ft), consider 3 rails. The Pickets number accounts for the picket width plus gap. Remember that gates need heavier posts (typically 4x4 or even 6x6) and additional hardware like hinges and latches not included in this material count. Always check with your local permitting office — many areas require permits for fences over 6 ft.