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Construction — Fencing
Fence Calculator
Enter your fence length, post spacing and picket width to get the posts, sections, rails and pickets you need.
Posts needed
—
One more than the number of sections.
| Sections | — |
|---|---|
| Rails | — |
| Pickets | — |
Show our math
Enter your figures above to see the step-by-step working.
An estimate — add spacing between pickets if you want gapsEverything computed client-side — nothing leaves this page
How the Fence Calculator Works
The calculator divides the fence length by your post spacing to get the number of sections, then adds one for the closing post. Each section carries the rails you specify, and if you enter a picket width it works out how many pickets fill the run, boards butted edge to edge.
Posts are commonly set 6 to 8 feet apart. Standard fence pickets are about 5.5 inches wide (a nominal 1×6 board). Add a small gap between pickets by using a slightly larger effective width if you want spaced boards.
posts = ⌈length ÷ spacing⌉ + 1 · pickets = ⌈length × 12 ÷ picket width⌉
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fence posts do I need?
Divide the total length by the spacing between posts and round up, then add one for the final post. A 100-foot fence with posts every 8 feet needs 13 sections and 14 posts.
How far apart should fence posts be?
Six to eight feet is typical for wood fences; eight feet is common for pre-made panels. Closer spacing makes a sturdier fence and is worth it in windy spots or for heavier panels.
How many pickets will I need?
Divide the fence length in inches by the picket width. Standard pickets are about 5.5 inches wide, so a 100-foot run needs roughly 218 pickets butted tight — fewer if you leave gaps.
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