Fence Material Calculator
Calculate exactly how many posts, rails, and pickets you need for your fence project. Supports privacy, picket, and ranch rail styles.
How to Calculate Fence Materials
To estimate fence materials, start with the total fence length and subtract any gate openings. Divide the remaining length by your post spacing to find the number of sections, then add one for the end post (plus two extra posts per gate). The number of rails depends on your fence style, and pickets are calculated based on the board width and spacing for your chosen design.
Fence Style Comparison
| Style | Privacy | Material Use | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Privacy (Board-on-Board) | Full privacy | Highest | Backyards, pools, property lines |
| Picket | Partial (open gaps) | Moderate | Front yards, gardens, decorative |
| Ranch Rail (3-Rail) | None (open) | Lowest | Large properties, rural areas, livestock |
Choosing the Right Post Spacing
Six-foot post spacing is the standard and provides the strongest fence, especially important in areas with high winds or for tall privacy fences. Eight-foot spacing uses fewer posts and saves money, but the fence may not be as rigid. For most residential privacy fences, 6-foot spacing is recommended. For ranch rail or picket fences in low-wind areas, 8-foot spacing is often sufficient.
Wood Types for Fencing
- Pressure-treated pine: Most affordable, lasts 15–20 years, widely available. Good for budget projects.
- Cedar: Naturally rot and insect resistant, lasts 20–30 years. Beautiful natural color but costs more.
- Redwood: Premium option, naturally durable, lasts 25–30+ years. Most expensive but very attractive.
- Composite: Made from recycled materials, virtually maintenance-free, lasts 25+ years. High upfront cost but no staining or sealing needed.
Tips for Your Fence Project
- Check your property lines before building — install the fence 2–4 inches inside your property boundary to avoid disputes.
- Call 811 at least 48 hours before digging to have underground utilities marked for free.
- Check local building codes and HOA rules for height restrictions and style requirements.
- Set corner and end posts first, then run a string line to keep intermediate posts aligned.
- Use concrete to set posts in the ground — about one 80 lb bag per post hole for a secure foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a 100-foot fence with standard 6-foot post spacing, you need 18 posts (100 divided by 6, plus 1 for the end post). Add 2 extra posts for each gate. With 8-foot spacing, you need 14 posts. Always round up and add extras for corners, which each require their own post.
The general rule is to bury one-third of the total post length underground. For a 6-foot fence using 8-foot posts, dig holes 24-30 inches deep. For 8-foot fences, holes should be 36 inches deep. In cold climates, post holes should extend below the frost line to prevent heaving. Always set posts in concrete for maximum stability.
Standard fence post spacing is 6 to 8 feet apart, measured center to center. Six-foot spacing is stronger and recommended for privacy fences and areas with high winds. Eight-foot spacing is more economical and works well for picket fences and ranch rail fences in low-wind areas.
DIY fence costs range from $5-$15 per linear foot for pressure-treated pine privacy fencing, $10-$20 for cedar, and $20-$40 for composite. These costs include posts, rails, pickets, concrete, and hardware. Professional installation typically adds $10-$25 per linear foot for labor. A 100-foot privacy fence costs roughly $1,000-$2,500 for materials alone.
Permit requirements vary by location. Many cities require a permit for fences over 6 feet tall, while some require permits for any fence. Most areas have setback requirements, meaning your fence must be a certain distance from property lines, sidewalks, and streets. Always check with your local building department and HOA before starting.