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Fence Calculator
Plan a wood fence. Enter the total length, post spacing, height, rails per section, picket width and gap, and number of gates. Get the posts, rails, pickets and concrete you need, and an installed cost estimate.
How to use the Fence Calculator
- Measure the total fence line in feet.
- Choose post spacing (usually 6-8 ft).
- Enter picket width and gap.
- Add gates and price per foot.
Formula
Example
150 ft of 6 ft privacy fence with 8 ft spacing and one gate: 21 posts, 19 sections, 57 rails and about 315 pickets.
Before you dig
- Call 811 to mark underground utilities
- Confirm property lines
- Check HOA and city height limits and permits
Planning your fence
- Mark the line with string and stakes before buying anything
- Measure each straight run separately and add them
- Place gates where people and vehicles naturally walk
- Leave a small gap at the bottom for drainage
Materials compared
Wood privacy fences look warm but need staining every few years. Vinyl costs more up front and needs little care. Chain link is the cheapest for large areas. In Pakistan, boundary walls of brick or block are more common - use the brick calculator for those.
Cost per foot
Installed prices vary widely by material, height and region. Get at least three quotes and compare the same height, post spacing and post depth, and confirm whether removal of an old fence is included.
Related free tools
Frequently asked questions
How deep should posts be?
About one third of the post's above-ground height, and below the frost line.
How much concrete per post?
Usually 1-2 bags of 50 lb per post.
What spacing is best?
8 ft is standard; 6 ft is stronger for windy areas.
Cedar or pressure-treated?
Cedar resists rot and looks better; pressure-treated pine costs less.
Do I need concrete for every post?
Corner, end and gate posts should be set in concrete; some line posts can use compacted gravel in firm soil.
What about slopes?
On slopes, panels are either stepped down or racked to follow the ground; you may need a few extra pickets.
Results are estimates for planning. Your inputs stay in your browser and are not sent to Soft2Cloud.
Last updated: November 2026