Pavers & Outdoor · Material planning

Fence Material Calculator

Estimate material for a straight picket fence with an optional gate. Count posts, rails and pickets using your dimensions and spacing.

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US & metric

Example values are filled in. Replace them with your measurements.

ft
ft
ft
ft

Measured from the left end; ignored when gate width is zero.

in
in
%

An editable purchasing margin, not a measured compaction rate.

Enter your measurements

The calculation

Each run: bays = ceil(run ÷ maximum post spacing). Gate splits runs; pickets and rails exclude its opening.

  • Extra allowance applies to rails and pickets, not post positions. Each rail piece must span its bay. Gate leaf and hardware are excluded.

Saved on this device

Only estimates you choose to save are stored here.

    Measure with a little context

    How to use this fence calculator

    The optional gate splits the fence into two runs. Its opening width is excluded from pickets and rails, while gate-end posts are retained.

    This model uses full-height pickets and one rail per bay per rail row. Gate leaves, hardware, concrete, corners and structural post selection are not included.

    Each run: bays = ceil(run ÷ maximum post spacing). Gate splits runs; pickets and rails exclude its opening.

    A worked example

    With the example values shown below, the calculated result is 14 posts. These are demonstration inputs, not installation specifications.

    View the example measurements
    • Straight fence length: 100 ft
    • Maximum post spacing: 8 ft
    • Distance to start of gate: 40 ft
    • Picket width: 5.5 in
    • Gap between pickets: 0.5 in
    • Horizontal rails per bay: 2
    • Extra allowance: 10 %

    From estimate to order

    Whole packages and pieces round up; measured lengths, areas and volumes keep full precision during calculation. Match the product dimensions and units to your quote, and check cuts, minimum orders and delivery before purchasing.

    Read our formulas, rounding rules and limitations →

    Fence planning questions

    How does the fence calculator handle a gate?

    The gate opening splits the straight fence into runs on either side. Pickets and rails exclude the opening, while posts at its ends are retained. Enter the gate position from the left end and verify that it lies within the total fence length.

    Can it calculate chain-link fencing or post depth?

    No. This model counts posts, pickets and rail rows for a straight picket fence. Chain-link mesh, gates, corners, post embedment, concrete footings and wind-load design need separate specifications and quantities.

    Calculation notes updated . Formulas, sources and limitations.