Fence Calculator
Enter your fence length, post spacing, rail count, and picket width to instantly calculate how many posts, rails, and pickets you need.
Use the Fence Calculator
Fence Parameters
Common: 6 ft or 8 ft between post centers.
Include gap in this value for spaced pickets. Standard 1×4 = 3.5 in.
Materials Needed
0
Posts
0
Rails
0
Pickets
Calculation Breakdown
Shopping Tips
- Posts are typically 4×4 lumber. Buy lengths at least 2 ft taller than your fence height — the extra goes in the ground.
- Rails are usually 2×4 lumber. Standard 8 ft boards match an 8 ft bay exactly; buy 10 ft for slight overhang at cuts.
- Add 2 posts per corner and 2–3 posts per gate opening to the post count above.
Fill in your fence details and click Calculate to see your materials list.
Summary
The Fence Calculator helps you estimate the exact number of posts, rails, and pickets required for any fence project. Enter the total fence length, the spacing between posts, how many horizontal rails each bay needs, and the width of each picket. The tool instantly returns material counts with a small waste buffer so you never run short at the hardware store.
How it works
- Enter the total length of the fence run in feet.
- Set the on-center post spacing (typically 6 or 8 feet).
- Choose how many horizontal rails span each bay (usually 2 or 3).
- Enter the width of each picket or board in inches.
- Optionally add a waste percentage (5–10% is standard).
- The calculator returns post count, rail count, and picket count — ready for your shopping list.
Use cases
- Planning a wood privacy fence around a backyard.
- Estimating picket quantities for a decorative front yard fence.
- Calculating rail lumber for a split-rail or ranch-style fence.
- Comparing material costs for different post spacing options.
- Building a temporary construction site barrier.
- Replacing or repairing a section of an existing fence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: 2026-05-25 · Reviewed by Nham Vu