Fence Calculator
A materials list for a picket or privacy fence.
Your numbers
Your results
Sections
Sections
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Posts (straight run)
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Rails
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Pickets
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Fence Calculator by TheCalcTools
How the Fence Calculator works
Enter the total length and how far apart posts will be.
Sections are the length divided by post spacing; a straight run needs one more post than sections.
Pickets are the length in inches divided by picket width plus gap.
The formula
Posts = ⌈length ÷ spacing⌉ + 1Pickets = ⌈length × 12 ÷ (picket width + gap)⌉
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Fence length (ft) | 120 |
|---|---|
| Post spacing (ft) | 8 |
| Picket width (in) | 5.5 |
| Gap between pickets (in) | 0.5 |
| Rails per section | 2 |
- 120 ft ÷ 8 ft = 15 sections and 16 posts.
- 30 rails and 240 pickets.
Result:
| Sections | 15 |
|---|---|
| Posts (straight run) | 16 |
| Rails | 30 |
| Pickets | 240 |
Frequently asked questions
Do corners and gates change the count?
Yes. Each corner and gate needs extra posts, so add them separately.
What spacing is typical?
6–8 feet between posts, with deeper footings for taller privacy fences. Check local codes and fence height limits.
Sources and further reading
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This calculator gives estimates for information only. Check important results independently before you rely on them. See our disclaimer.