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Fence Calculator

Calculate posts, rails, and pickets for your fence project.

Last updated: June 13, 2026

Calculator

Total Fence Length

feet

Fence Height

Post Spacing

Results

Posts Needed20

8ft posts (6ft above + 2ft buried)

Rails Needed38 rails

2 rails per section

Pickets (6" wide)300 pickets

Concrete (per post)1-2 bags

50-60 lb quick-set bags

How to Use This Calculator

1Enter the total fence length in feet.
2Enter the fence height in feet.
3Enter gate width if applicable.
4View post count, rail count, picket count, and material estimate.

Formula Explanation

Fence materials are calculated from total length, with posts at standard 8-foot spacing and pickets based on width plus gap.

Posts = (Length ÷ 8) + 1 Rails = Posts × 2 (or 3 for tall fences) Pickets = Length ÷ (Picket Width + Gap) × 12

Variables:

LengthTotal fence run in linear feet

HeightFence height in feet (4, 6, or 8 ft typical)

Post Spacing8 feet on center is standard

Worked Examples

100 ft fence, 6 ft tall, one 4-ft gate

1. Fence run = 100 - 4 = 96 ft of fencing
2. Posts = (96 ÷ 8) + 1 = 13 fence posts + 2 gate posts = 15
3. Rails = 15 × 3 = 45 rails
4. Pickets = 96 × 12 ÷ 3.75 = 307 pickets

Result: 15 posts, 45 rails, 307 pickets + gate hardware

Why Use This Calculator

Complete material list for your fence project.
Accounts for gates in the layout.
Standard 8-foot post spacing for strength.
Prevents multiple trips to the hardware store.

336 × 280 Large Rectangle

300 × 250 Medium Rectangle

Tips & Best Practices

Use 3 rails for fences 6 ft and taller — 2 rails are only sufficient for 4 ft fences.
Set posts in concrete at least 24 inches deep (or below frost line).
Space pickets consistently using a spacer jig for a professional look.
Treat cut ends of pressure-treated lumber with end-cut preservative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Spacing posts more than 8 feet apart to save money.

✅ Post spacing over 8 feet causes rails to sag and the fence to lean. Stick to 8 ft max, 6 ft in high-wind areas.

❌ Not setting posts deep enough.

✅ Bury 1/3 of the post length underground. For a 6-ft fence, use 8-ft posts with 2 ft buried.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many fence posts do I need?

Divide your total fence length by 8 (standard post spacing) and add 1. For 100 feet of fencing, you need 14 posts. Add extra posts for corners and gate openings.

How deep should fence posts be?

Posts should be buried at least 24 inches deep, or one-third of the total post length. In cold climates, bury below the frost line to prevent heaving.

How long does a wood fence last?

Pressure-treated wood fences last 15-20 years with maintenance (staining every 2-3 years). Cedar fences last 15-25 years. Composite and vinyl fences can last 25-30+ years.

336 × 280 Large Rectangle

300 × 250 Medium Rectangle

Embed This Calculator

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Width

Height

<iframe src="https://redicalc.com/embed/construction/fence-calculator" width="100%" height="600" style="border:none;border-radius:12px;box-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.1);" title="Fence Calculator — RediCalc.com" loading="lazy" allowtransparency="true"></iframe>

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Disclaimer: This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. RediCalc.com makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any calculations. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial, health, construction, or other important decisions.

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