Fence Calculator
Calculate how many fence posts and panels you need for your fencing project.
How many fence posts do I need?
Formula: (Fence Length / Post Spacing) + 1. Standard spacing: 8 feet on-center for panels, 6-7 feet for pickets. Example: 100 ft fence with 8' spacing = (100/8) + 1 = 13.5 = 14 posts (always round up). Extra posts for gates (2 per gate) and corners (corner post counts as end post). Posts sizes: 4x4 for up to 6' tall, 6x6 for taller fences. Set posts 2-3 feet deep in concrete (1/3 of above-ground height underground).
How deep should fence posts be set?
Rule of thumb: 1/3 of total post length underground. 6' tall fence needs 8' posts (2' underground). Depth varies by: Frost line (must go below in cold climates - typically 36-48"), soil type (sandy soil needs deeper), fence height (taller needs deeper), wind exposure. Standard depths: 4' fence: 18-24" deep, 6' fence: 24-30" deep, 8' fence: 30-36" deep. Always use concrete (60 lbs per post), or gravel in well-draining soil.
How much fencing material do I need for my yard?
Measure perimeter of area to fence. Example: 100'x50' backyard, fencing 3 sides = 100 + 50 + 50 = 200 linear feet. Materials needed: Posts: (200/8) + 1 = 26 posts (4x4x8'), Panels/Pickets: 200 ft of panels or (200 x 8) = 1,600 linear feet of 6" pickets, Rails: 200 x 3 = 600 linear feet of 2x4 rails (top, middle, bottom), Concrete: 26 posts x 60 lbs = 1,560 lbs (twenty 80-lb bags), Hardware: 5 lbs screws/nails.
Should I use wood or vinyl fencing?
Wood fence: Cheaper upfront ($10-30/linear ft), requires maintenance (stain every 2-3 years), 15-20 year life, natural appearance, easily repaired. Vinyl fence: Higher cost ($20-40/linear ft), no maintenance, 20-30 year life, limited styles, hard to repair if damaged. Metal/aluminum: $20-50/linear ft, long-lasting, minimal maintenance. Best choice: Budget-conscious with DIY skills = wood. Low-maintenance preference = vinyl. Match neighborhood aesthetics and HOA rules.