Fence Calculator
Calculate the number of posts, pickets, rails, and concrete bags needed for your fence.
Fence Details
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Estimation Results
For estimation purposes only. Verify material quantities with your fence supplier before purchasing.
How This Calculator Works
The fence calculator uses standard construction geometry to estimate materials. The number of posts is calculated by dividing total length by post spacing, then adding 1 (for the end post), plus any extra posts needed for gates.
The formula for pickets is: (Total Length × 12 inches) ÷ Picket Width.
For concrete, we assume a standard 10-inch diameter hole that is 24 inches deep. This requires roughly 0.6 cubic feet of concrete, which is exactly one 80lb bag per hole. We apply a standard 10% waste factor to wood materials.
Example Calculation
For a 100 foot privacy fence with 8-foot post spacing, using 5.5-inch pickets and 3 rails:
- Number of Sections: 100 ÷ 8 = 12.5 (rounds up to 13)
- Number of Posts: 13 + 1 = 14 posts
- Rails Required: 13 sections × 3 rails = 39 rails
- Pickets Required: (100 × 12) ÷ 5.5 = 218 pickets
- Concrete Bags: 14 holes × 1 bag/hole = 14 bags (80lb)
- With 10% waste: buy 43 rails and 240 pickets.
Common Fence Lengths (8ft Spacing, Privacy Pickets)
| Fence Length | Posts / Concrete Bags | 2x4 Rails (3-rail) | 5.5" Pickets (+10% waste) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 ft | 8 posts | 24 rails | 120 pickets |
| 100 ft | 14 posts | 42 rails | 240 pickets |
| 150 ft | 20 posts | 60 rails | 360 pickets |
| 200 ft | 26 posts | 78 rails | 480 pickets |